After just one summer, Paul is reaping the rewards of his new 9.02kW solar system and battery storage. His summer electricity costs have dropped to an average of 27 cents per day.
Setting his sights on solar
Rising costs led Paul to decommission his central gas heating. He realised he could meet his heating and cooling needs with an electric reverse cycle system. But even after getting off gas, Paul was still paying around $600 per quarter for electricity.
So, having long been interested in solar, Paul began exploring this option. His biggest hurdle was the lack of information about how these systems work.
But with the help of the Manningham's Solar Savers program, Paul made sense of solar.
The Manningham Solar Savers program helps residents access rebates, secure a quote and enjoy ongoing advice, providing a simpler path to clean energy.
Finding clarity with Solar Savers
Before attending a Solar Savers information session in 2024, Paul struggled to find clear information about solar.
Yet at the information session, Solar Savers representatives explained how solar systems and batteries work.
"They made it clear they weren't the cheapest, but that didn't bother me," Paul said.
"After 18 months wanting to get started, I was ready to understand what it was all about."
The Solar Savers information session "turned the lights on" for Paul.
Now, his Warrandyte home is powered by 22 solar panels on its east/west-facing roof. From sunrise to sunset, the system meets his electricity needs, with excess energy stored in a 9.6kWh battery.
Solar Savers advantage
The Solar Savers program offered Paul detailed information about panels, battery options and projected savings, as well as the reassurance of knowing Council's partnership in the program..
"It was comforting to see Council's involvement ," said Paul.
While the ongoing cost-effectiveness of a solar system ultimately convinced Paul to make the switch, Solar Savers gave him the confidence to start.
Support beyond the sale
As Paul emphasises, purchasing a solar system is a partnership. The key is finding the right people to work with.
Looking ahead, Paul plans to upgrade his hot water system.
"For me, it's a no-brainer," he said.
"When most councils in Melbourne are involved and you can walk into an information session knowing nothing and leave with all the answers, that creates a real buying position."
