Alternative energy source: Solar power

In the past five to ten years, Australians have become widely educated about the effects of climate change, pollution and other environmental concerns. We now know that we need to act, and renewable energy sources as an alternative to fossil fuels is one way of doing that. There are several ways that you can add solar power to your new or existing home, and there is plenty of financial assistance to encourage and help you. This is no longer an option just for alternative lifestyles, it is something that every home owner and builder can contemplate. You can even make money back by selling excess power back to the grid!

Solar power: Information

Solar power is the harnessing of the sun's energy to create electricity or to use directly as heating. Simple solar water heaters are comprised of coils of black plastic pipe filled with water, which the sun heats.

Most home solar power systems consist of silicon solar panels which are mounted on the roof of the house or a convenient place. The panels are connected to batteries which store the power for use as the household requires.

Solar systems have become increasingly efficient, and systems today provide a lot more power with less sun than ten years ago. Most systems will produce power even on overcast days. Solar systems can be off grid or on grid. On grid systems mean that you are still connected to the electricity grid, enabling you to top up your power if the solar system falls short, or even sell energy back to the grid if you have excess.

Off grid solar systems are ideal for remote locations, and simply mean that your entire electricity needs are provided by the solar energy system. Installation costs vary according to the system (many start at around $10,000), but with rebates of up to $8,000 available, this becomes a very cost effective way of powering your home.

Alternative energy solutions

Solar is just one alternative energy source open to Australians, but it is a particularly useful one in a country with such abundant sunlight.

Wind energy is another possibility for powering your home, particularly in rural areas. Combining windmills with a solar system can be an excellent way of ensuring that your power needs are met reliably.

You may also choose to use the 'green' or renewable energy option of your electricity provider. Most providers charge a little extra (generally around 10%) for this. Your energy will come from a variety of renewable sources, which may be anything from solar or wind, to 'clean coal'. Check with the provider exactly what 'renewable' means.

Solar power: Tips & advice

On the government website Resource Smart you will find information on rebates of up to $8,000 to assist you to install a solar energy unit in your home, if you live in Victoria. The other states also have rebate schemes, so check the state government website in your state or territory. Solar and other renewable energy can be a wonderful way of reducing your impact on the environment and your costs of living at the same time.