Solar Challenge FAQs

Installation

 

Q             How long will it take between signing up for a solar power system, having it installed?

A             Generally it is 6-8 weeks between signing up for a system and having it installed. This may vary if demand is high. Naturally it could be more, if special circumstances apply.

 

 

Finance

 

Q             How much is the Conservation SA discount on Ingenero systems?

A             The discount scaling is as follows:

 

System

1.6kW

2kW

3kW

4kW

5kW

6.4kW

7.6kW

9.6kW

Discount

$150

$400

$600

$1,000

$1,200

$1,600

$2,200

$3,000

 

From time to time Ingenero will also run specials.

 

Q             What does 'no deposit required' mean?

A             No deposit applies if you choose to take up the NAB finance product offered to purchase your solar power system.  Ingenero has organised an exclusive and very attractive Solar Loan for use by its customers through NAB.  For more information about NAB solar financing, click here.

Q             Does Ingenero take the customer through the whole finance process and look after all the details?

A             Assuming you request finance for a solar power system, you will enter into two separate contracts. The first is with Ingenero for a solar power system. Ingenero will ask your permission to pass your details on to the finance company (NAB) which will then make contact with you and enter into a finance agreement.  NAB use a streamlined application process.

 

Q             What are the tax implications for businesses, home offices and householders?

A             You should consult your accountant or the tax office for advice suitable for your circumstances.

 

 

Selling power into the grid

 

Q             What is a feed-in tariff?

A             The feed-in tariff scheme rewards customers whenever they generate more electricity than they are using.  Under the feed-in scheme, ETSA Utilities will credit you with $0.44 for every unit of electricity you return to the grid from your solar system (as read by the meter reader). For further information (including FAQ's) click here.

 

Q             How do I know that my solar power system will produce enough power to be worthwhile?

A             Ingenero's trained consultants will be able to provide you with a reasonable estimate of the total annual power generated by the system size you select in South Australia.  A conservative estimate for South Australia is that panels will produce power for an average of about 4.5 hours a day, more in summer, less in winter, more on sunny days, less on cloudy days.

 

Q             How do I know how much electricity my system produces and feeds into the grid?

A             The inverter on your system shows you the amount of power produced, and the meter between your system and the grid shows you how much has been sent into the grid.

 

 

Property and roof suitability

 

Q             Can a tenant put a solar power system on their property?

A             Generally, property owners make the arrangements for installing solar power systems; however tenants could make their own arrangements. Before any work is carried out on a rental property where you are the tenant, contact your rental agent or the owner of the property. You may also want to discuss your plans with your accountant to ensure it is suitable for your circumstances.

 

Q             Can tenants in Government housing access solar power systems?

A             The Federal Government subsidises solar power systems through Solar Credits, however tenants in government housing are not eligible to receive them.

 

Q             Are the processes for installing solar power the same for farmers and people on acreage as urban residents?

A             If your solar power system is 10kW or less in size, the process is the same, assuming you are connected to the power grid.

 

Q             If the solar panels are on a roof that feeds a rainwater tank, can I be sure the water is safe? Will Ingenero guarantee they won't leak?

A             Yes, Solar panels are silicon and aluminium and as such are very safe for drinking water. However in the event of a massive force breaking the glass panel, it should be taken down as soon as possible to assure water quality. Ingenero provides a minimum 10 year warranty on its panels and advises householders to ensure their panels are included on their insurance policy.

 

Q             Can I put panels on my garage or shed roof?

 A            Yes, the shed or garage must be a council certified structure and comply with all building regulations. Note that extra charges may apply for underground cabling.

 

Q             Can panels be fixed to all roof types and do I need to reinforce my roof?

A             Generally, all roof types are suitable other than fibro, asbestos, slate or decromastic roofs. It would be very unusual for a roof to require reinforcing. Panels weigh up to 16.8kg each. Eight panels would spread their weight over 12 sq m.

 

Q             If I am in a rural area with two phase power or three phase power and a transformer, can I also have a solar power system?

A             Yes, however extra charges may apply.

 

 

Other questions

 

Q             How does Ingenero assure their quality?

A             Ingenero contractors are fully accredited with the Clean Energy Council. The Solar Panels are high quality Suntech (model: ftp 200) the very same panels that are have been installed at the Google head office in the USA, as well as many Queensland Schools, Woolworths service stations and Brisbane City Council buildings. Ingenero is so confident in the quality of their systems they provide an industry leading 10 year warranty on all parts and labour. Ingenero customers can be assured of no out of pocket expenses resulting from equipment failure (other than through storm or damage) for 10 years.  The panels also have a 25 year power output guarantee.

 

Q             Can I add a wind turbine?

A             No, not to a solar power system.

 

Q             Do I need batteries?

A             No, the solar power system is connected to the electricity grid.

 

Q             What will happen in a blackout?

 A            Because the solar power system is connected to the electricity grid, it will shut down in a blackout as a safety measure to protect electricity workers. This is required by law. No special restarting procedure is required; it will start functioning again once the power is restored.

 

Q             Who is responsible for damage to the system in the event of a power surge or lightning?

A             Normally the homeowner's insurance would apply in this situation. You should contact your insurance provider to clarify their position on insuring solar power systems attached to houses.

 

For answers to more FAQ's via go to Ingerero Solar FAQ's.

 

For more information about Ingenero Pty Ltd go to www.ingenero.com.au

 

 

Sponsors

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