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Sustainability

Roof-mounted solar arrays

Solar panels are normally installed on peoples' roofs, simply because that's the place that's likely to get the most sun. Find out more about how these systems are installed, and what factors affect roof installations.

Ground-based solar arrays

If your roof isn't big or strong enough - or doesn't get enough sunlight - it may be more practical to install solar panels on the ground instead. Learn more about how this differs from roof-based setups.

Solar power pergolas

If you have a pergola (or you're planning to build one) you might also want to consider using that roof space to collect a bit of sun precious sunlight. Read about solar power pergolas and how they're installed.

Solar windows

Another option that's likely to appear in the not-too-distant future, solar windows involve solar panel technology embedded into a building's windows. Read about where this technology currently stands.

How to clean solar panels

A dirty solar panel is an inefficient one: dirty solar panels will produce less power than clean ones, which may even cost you money over time. Find out how - and how often - to clean your solar panels.

Solar panel inspection and repair

Problems with your solar panel? Find out how to tell if there's a problem, what sorts of issues are most common, and what kinds of steps you can take to get your solar panels repaired.

Array size and solar panel efficiency

How much power your solar panels will produce depends on two things: firstly on the size of your solar panel setup, and secondly on how efficiently the panels are able to convert solar energy into electricity.

Solar panel orientation and position

Having the best solar panels in the world won't help if they're not facing the right way at the right time. Find out the best direction and position in which to install solar panels in Australia.

Solar power and weather regions

All other things considered, the amount of sunlight that makes it down through the clouds can have a big impact on how much power your panels produce. Find out what's right for different regions of Australia.

Types of solar hardware and setups

Types of solar hardware and setups

The vast bulk of people in the burbs have much the same needs when it comes to solar - some panels on the roof, an inverter and possibly a battery backup system.

Solar panels and hardware

Find out more about the differences in solar photovoltaic panels. Also, learn what role solar inverters, regulators, battery banks and smart meters play in a solar setup.

Solar power and energy efficiency

Solar power and energy efficiency

Solar electricity can make a vast difference to the operating efficiency of your home - especially if it's set up to completely meet your own household energy needs.

Solar regulations

Solar regulations

How do solar rebates work - and how much are you entitled to? Who needs to install your solar panels, and what sorts of qualifications or accreditations do they need?

Solar maintenance

Solar maintenance

Solar panels don't need that much maintenance thanks to the fact that they have no moving parts - although they will require a clean now and then, and will need to be professionally replaced if they become damaged.

Types of wind hardware

Types of wind hardware

The hardware used for wind power setups is quite similar to that used for solar - albeit with a turbine instead of solar panels. Find out more about what you need if you're planning on installing your own wind generator.

Performance considerations for wind power

The beauty of wind, when compared to solar, is that it doesn't stop blowing just because it's night time.

Wind power regulations

Wind power regulations

There are certain regulations and some paperwork you'll need to know about if you're planning on installing wind - especially if you're hoping to feed energy back into the grid or claim government rebates in the form of STCs.

Payback times for solar panels

Solar payback time: assumptions and descriptions

The assumptions and descriptions that explain the figures show in our 'Payback times for solar panels' article.

Feed-in Tariffs (FiTs)

One of the biggest advantages of a solar panel system is that it allows you to sell electricity back to your electricity provider. Find out how this works, and what to expect.

Lifecycle assessment of solar panels

If you're serious about sustainability, it's also worth considering how much energy went into manufacturing your solar PV system. Learn how much energy is normally used to make solar panels and related hardware.

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