Solar energy or solar hot water?
If you want to help the environment but aren’t sure which system is right for you, you might want to consider:
- Applicable incentives
- The complete cost of the system
- Available space on your roof
- Ongoing savings
- Installing both a solar energy system and a solar hot water system.
Regardless of the solar system you choose, by using solar energy or solar hot water you will be making a positive impact on the environment by ensuring fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
Incentives
There are incentives on each system that could save you money now and in the future. As a guide, incentives for solar energy systems (in the form of Renewable Energy Certificates) can be claimed when installed and will allow a discount on upfront costs. Solar hot water systems incentives (when converting from electric hot water to solar hot water) are claimed after installation.
Complete cost
A solar hot water system is another great way to start making savings on your electricity bills. A solar hot water system is generally a cheaper option than the purchase and installation of a solar energy system. A solar hot water system is typically around 1/3 of the cost of solar energy system.
Available space on your roof
Because both systems will take up room on your roof, you might have to choose one system in favour of the other. A solar energy system may need 8m2 or upwards of roof space depending on the capacity of the system you choose.
Ongoing savings
Being energy smart around the home may help you to enjoy ongoing savings. Depending on the type of appliances you have (gas cookers vs. electric) and lifestyle you lead, you may be able to make large and noticeable savings with either a solar hot water or a solar energy system.
Installing both systems
If you have a large north-facing aspect to your roof and are prepared to spend the upfront costs, you can save more over time and rest assured the environment will thank you for it.