Some sideways steps but it’s absolutely worth it
March 10, 2026
Cath moved to Killcare in 2019, after many years in Northern Australia. Her electrification journey has been one
On this page, you’ll find useful information to help you take the path to solar:
Installing rooftop solar panels is one of the cheapest and most effective ways to reduce energy bills and tackle climate change.
Our surveys of roofs in Bouddi shows that adding solar panels to two-thirds of all houses here is a viable option, with only 18% that are too shaded.
If we took advantage of this solar opportunity, we could generate as much green electricity each year as needed by the whole community — the equivalent of a 6MW solar farm.
One of the main advantages of solar panels is that they reduce your electricity bills. As soon as the panels are installed, they will generate electricity and lower your power bill. Most systems pay for themselves in 3–8 years through bill savings and feed-in tariffs.
The installation of a 6.6kW solar system reduces greenhouse emissions by over 250 tonnes CO2 in its lifetime and brings down our collective dependence on fossil fuels.
Solar uses no water to operate, unlike coal-fired power stations, which require thousands of litres daily.
Solar homes are more attractive to buyers. Estimates suggest that a 5kW solar PV installation could add around $30K to the value of a house.
When you buy a new solar system in Australia, you will receive a solar panel rebate that will reduce the cost of your purchase.
Solar power reduces your reliance on the grid, particularly when used in combination with a battery so that power generated during the day can be used at night.
Solar power can help our community to prosper by creating sustainable local jobs for installers.
We’ve listed some local solar and battery installers that have been used and recommended by local residents. Use our form to get a ‘no obligation’ quote. This will help you to receive a better service.
Going solar has never been easier. Follow these steps to cut energy bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Are you not sure you can afford to go solar, or make your home more energy efficient?
Read our guide to finance for solar and energy efficiency.
Your roof-mounted solar panels have photovoltaic cells (known as solar cells) that turn sunlight into DC (direct current) electricity. Inverters then convert this to AC (alternating current) electricity, which powers your home.
Inverters convert the DC electricity from your solar panels into the 240V AC electricity your home needs. There are different inverter configurations depending on your system setup:
Microinverter and optimizer systems are better for shaded or complex roofs.
Most household power requirements are met by the following:
Consider installing more solar panels than suggested above to generate additional solar power for potential future requirements, i.e. to store in a household battery, replace gas appliances and charge an electric car.
In our experience, nobody ever regrets putting on too big a system, only that they installed one that is too small!
Currently most households may not export more than 10kW, although if you have 3-phase electricity. You should discuss these limits with your electricity provider.
In most cases, your home will need a bi-directional smart meter. If you don’t already have one, your solar installer will organise this.
Yes — the individual installer needs an electrical licence and Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) certification. The system design must be signed off by a SAA-accredited designer.
Typically one day, depending on system size and weather conditions.
The basic principles are:
Panels can be installed at various angles. For example, you can install both east and west panels to maximize the length of the day. Even south facing panels produce only 28% less than north facing panels. Your installer will optimise the design of your system to maximise the solar production.
On installation day, the installer:
The Federal Government is developing recycling options for solar components. Meanwhile, Electrify Bouddi is working with our installers and a recycling company in Sydney to ensure that waste material is recycled.
Minimal maintenance is required for your solar PV system. Typically, solar panels do not even need to be cleaned.
Typically most modern solar panels will last 25 years, maybe more. The very best panels come with a 25 year warranty.
Inverters may last for 10-25 years depending on their type and quality.
Most solar system without a battery will have a payback time in the range of 3 to 8 years. However, even if it takes 8 years, this is still a 12-15% return on your investment. To see how to calculate your savings, click on our guide to Understanding your electricity bill.
It is far more cost-effective to use your own solar than exporting it, so try to match your energy consumption to times when you are producing lots of solar energy. For example, run hot water systems during the day, not at overnight off-peak rates. (Read our Hot water guide). Run washing machines and dishwashers during the day. Power-up all your devices during the day. Where possible, set up timers to run appliances if you are not usually at home during the day.
It will exported to the electricity grid and, depending on your retailer and tariff, you may be given a credit towards your electricity bill.
The rate you’re paid for exported electricity, set by each retailer.
You don’t have to do anything. Your solar installer will apply the rebate to your quote.
We’ve listed some local solar and battery installers that have been used and recommended by local residents. Use our form to get a ‘no obligation’ quote. This will help you to receive a better service.
Do you have more questions? Watch the video of our Solar Clinic at the Hardys Bay Community Club in October 2024. Three of our local solar installers answered many questions about installing solar. Topics covered include:
Cath moved to Killcare in 2019, after many years in Northern Australia. Her electrification journey has been one
Like others in our community, Tony and Carlene Lawler recognise that there is a part for us all
‘We decided to go ahead with buying a home battery when we made the decision to get an