Hi everyone,
 
Most solar panels on rooftops in Australia are installed in portrait orientation rather than landscape. Discover why this is and why landscape can be better.
 
When is the best time to buy a solar system? Usually right now (without making a rushed decision of course) for one very simple reason.
  
It probably won't come as a surprise to subscribers of this newsletter the vast majority of Australians have again ranked solar power among their top three preferred energy sources. Also not surprising was where coal ranked. Find out more here.
 
Over to energy storage - have you seen ads spruiking so-called "Tier 1" solar batteries? Unless there's a brand out there by that name, Tier 1 solar batteries don't exist.
 
For those of you considering going off-grid in the country or the 'burbs, don't forget to check out the latest episode of SolarQuotes TV. We showcase some of the best examples of off-grid living in Australia - and the solar and battery hardware making it possible.
 
More news below!
 
Don't forget you can get 3 solar quotes from trusted solar installers at our website - and everyone can also stay in touch with what's happening on SQ via our Facebook page.
 
Regards,

SQ VIEWS

Why Landscape Solar Panels Can Be Better (But More Expensive)
Ever noticed most solar panels installed on Australian roofs are mounted in portrait orientation? Why not landscape? Find out why and which can be the better orientation here.
 
Even more news below!

THE GOOD SOLAR GUIDE - READ ONLINE FREE!

7 Steps To Tiny Bills For Australian Homeowners - An Amazon Best-Seller!

The Good Solar Guide, authored by SolarQuotes founder Finn Peacock, demystifies the solar buying process in Australia; showing you how many panels you need, which panel brands to buy, which to avoid, and how to find a great installer.

The seven-step process revealed in this book, developed over 10 years in the industry, walks you through understanding, evaluating, buying, installing and using solar to deliver on its promise of tiny electricity bills. Order the book (available in paperback or Kindle) or read the whole book online free! Yes, for free. Crazy eh?

SOLAR NEWS

Western Power Pursuing Disconnected Microgrid Project
Western Power is seeking registrations of interest to develop its first renewables-based disconnected microgrid in either the Mid-West, Wheatbelt or Great Southern region of Western Australia.
 
What Is A “Tier 1” Solar Battery?
A “Tier 1” solar battery is like a Tier 1 solar inverter and nothing like a Tier 1 solar panel. Confused? Here’s a simple explanation.
 
Australian Solar Panel Redistribution Initiative Helping Africa
From rooftops in Queensland’s Hervey Bay to communities in Nigeria – how unwanted solar panels from Australia are getting a second life overseas.
 
Choosing A Battery Inverter For Off-Grid Living
See inside the Australian factory producing what’s widely regarded as the world’s best off-grid inverters – Selectronic – and pick up some valuable tips on battery inverter selection.
 
Solar Powered Off-Grid Living With All The Creature Comforts
A South Australian family is living the dream in Strathalbyn in their off-grid solar powered home without skimping on the mod cons. And it worked out cheaper than connecting to the mains grid.
 
Why Buying Solar Now Is Often Better Than Later
The best time to buy a solar power system is usually right now; and perhaps even more so currently. Here’s why.
 
A Carbon-Neutral Port Stephens Council By 2025
Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer’s Notice of Motion to commit Council to carbon neutrality by 2025 has been given the thumbs up by his peers.
 
Solar Power Remains Favourite Energy Source Among Australians
The 2021 Climate Of A Nation poll found the vast majority of Australians again ranked solar power among their top three preferred energy sources. As for coal, well …
 
Glen Morris And The Community Living Off Grid Since 1974
There’s a community just outside Melbourne in Victoria, Australia that has been living off-grid for decades. It’s home to off-grid solar guru Glen Morris, who shows us around his impressive Smart Energy Lab.
  
Read more from the blog

SOLAR TOOLS & REVIEWS

There's a bunch of hardware and installer reviews along with handy and easy to use tools and calculators on SolarQuotes. Find them by clicking here.

FRESH IS BEST

If you're yet to get 3 obligation-free solar quotes from our network of trusted installers, or perhaps you didn't go ahead on a set of quotes issued previously for whatever reason and still want to install solar, now is a great time to submit for fresh quotes!

SUBMIT YOUR SOLAR REVIEW

If you're an Australian solar power system owner and would like to share a review of your solar panels, inverters, battery or installer with other potential Australian PV buyers to assist them in a purchase decision, SolarQuotes is the place to do it!
 
Please note in the case of solar panel and inverter reviews, the equipment should have been installed for at least one year.
 
Submit a review: Panels | Inverters | Batteries | Installers 
 
Pick up some tips on writing a review.

FINN'S "101" GUIDES

Understanding Solar
This runs through the basics of residential solar energy and the components that make up the system. It demystifies the magic turning sunlight into clean power for your home that can save you a bundle of cash on your electricity bills, and clearly explains some important concepts you should understand.
 
Buying Solar
My original guide, updated for 2021 that also includes a printable and video version. Now you have a basic understanding of all the bits that make up a solar power system and how they work to generate electricity, it’s time to think about getting quotes. After reading this, you’ll be able to communicate effectively with a salesperson and be confident you’re paying the right amount of money for a properly-sized system with the right components  – and from the right installer.
 
Owning Solar
The panels are now on your rooftop and the installers have packed up and left. What should you do now and how can you make the most of the new valuable addition to your home? From checking the installation to maximising electricity bill savings, find the answers here.
 
NEW! Understanding Home Batteries
This chapter will provide you an understanding of solar batteries – and will help you determine if installing one is right for you. It covers topics such as how a home battery works, the different types of energy storage and how energy storage can save you money.
 
NEW! Buying Solar Batteries
My guide to buying solar battery storage provides useful advice on how to go about purchasing a good quality home battery system installation at a reasonable price – and how to identify some of the traps. By reading this, you’ll be better equipped to make a solid purchase decision.
 
NEW! Owning A Battery System
As the proud new owner of home energy storage, you’ll want to make the most of it. This chapter provides very useful information about owning a battery system and maximising the benefits it can provide.