What are Solar Feed-In Tariffs?

Solar Feed-In Tariffs (SFITs) are incentives offered by utility companies to encourage customers to generate their own renewable electricity. Typically, SFITs offer a higher rate for solar power than the standard retail electricity rate, making it more financially attractive for customers to invest in solar PV systems. 

In some cases, the compensation may be in the form of credits applied to the customer's electric bill. Solar tariffs can vary significantly from one utility company to another, so it's important for customers to research the options before committing to a system. With the help of SFITs, many homeowners and businesses have been able to lower their energy bills and play a positive role in the fight against climate change.

How do SFITs work in NSW?

SFITs are Sydney's first fully integrated public transport ticketing system. They work by allowing customers to tap on and tap off at any light rail, bus or ferry service within the SFIT network. Customers can then pay for their journey using either a prepaid card or an NFC-enabled smartphone. 

The SFIT system is designed to make public transport in Sydney more convenient and efficient, and to reduce fare evasion. Since the introduction of SFITs, overall public transport usage has increased by 3%. In addition, customer satisfaction levels have risen by 5%. The SFIT system is clearly making a positive impact on the way people move around Sydney.

Who can benefit from SFITs in NSW?

The Smart and Free Individual Training Accounts (SFITs) scheme in NSW is designed to help eligible individuals access government-subsidised training. SFITs can be used for a range of courses, including business, management, hospitality and IT. To be eligible for a SFIT, you must be aged 15 or over and either unemployed or working less than 20 hours per week. 

You must also be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or a holder of a relevant visa. If you meet these criteria, you may be able to receive up to $2000 towards the cost of your course. For more information on SFITs, or to find out if you are eligible, please visit the NSW Department of Education website.

Are there any restrictions on who can participate in the scheme?

The Solar Feed-In Tariffs scheme is a program that allows eligible households and businesses to receive payments for the electricity they generate from solar PV panels. The scheme is open to anyone who owns or leases a solar PV system that is connected to the main grid, and there are no restrictions on the size or type of system. payments are based on the amount of electricity generated, and the current tariff is 11.3 cents per kilowatt-hour. 

To participate in the scheme, you must register with your state or territory government. Once you have registered, you will be issued a certificate that must be presented to your electricity retailer when you sign up for a feed-in tariff contract. 

What is the process for applying for a solar feed-in tariff in NSW?

The process for applying for a solar feed-in tariff in NSW is relatively straightforward. First, eligible customers must submit an application form to their electricity retailer. This form must be accompanied by proof of ownership of the solar panel system, as well as an estimate of the system's expected annual output. 

Once the application has been received and reviewed, the customer will be notified of the approval decision. If approved, the customer will then sign a contract with their electricity retailer and begin receiving payments for the electricity they generate. The solar feed-in tariff program is designed to provide financial incentives for households and businesses to install solar panel systems. 

By encouraging the use of renewable energy, the program helps to reduce emissions and promote sustainable development. 

How will I be paid for the electricity I generate and export to the grid?

There are many solar companies in Australia taking advantage of solar Feed-In Tariffs. In Australia, you'll be paid for the electricity you generate and export to the grid in two ways: through the feed-in tariff (FIT) scheme and the renewable energy certificate (REC) scheme. The FIT scheme provides a guaranteed price for electricity generated from eligible renewable energy sources, while the REC scheme provides credits that can be sold or traded to help offset the cost of renewable energy projects. 

Which scheme you'll be paid under depends on your state or territory, but both schemes are designed to encourage more investment in renewable energy. So if you're generating electricity from solar, wind or hydropower, you could be getting paid for it - and helping to reduce Australia's emissions in the process.

Common Mistakes People Make While Buying Solar Panels

Due to global warming and the high rise in electricity bills, most people are turning to a sustainable source of energy to harness power for their homes and businesses. However, this process is not that easy as there are many factors which need to be considered mind before going all solar for your needs otherwise you can end up wasting your money and time.

Let's see common mistakes while purchasing solar panels

 Less Expensive Solar Panels

You prefer to buy solar panels which are less expensive. Installing solar panels is a long term investment, so it is better to make your choice wisely. In the hope of saving money, you end up buying a cheap system without figuring out the long term result. 

There is many solar companies in Australia which have different prices to offer and you can end up buying low-quality panels later your decision can make you invest in further wear and tear of batteries, ill-fitted inverters and panels. So prefer quality over money.

Misconception About Installation 

You believe in the concept that only a certain direction is suitable for installing your panels since this angle or direction receives better sunlight but it's a misconception. Your installer knows better since it is not about the direction only but other factors also matter.It is believed that north direction receives maximum exposure but there are many factors such as weather conditions, angle, roof area, etc.

If you install your solar panel in any other direction other than north, then it will not make a big difference.

 Avoid Future Needs

You only think of the present while buying solar systems and if your family might increase in the future. Today you are three people but tomorrow, more members are added, so this means more energy is required. However if your system is unable to meet future needs, then it means you need to add extra batteries, inverters, and panels which means more expenses.

It is better to be clear about your requirements before making any purchase as it can save you from lot of hassles. 

To Do Self Installation

 

Don’t think that you can install these systems on your own without taking any help. There are a lot of technical requirements such as wiring, fixing batteries, inverters, setting of panels, etc.

Space required and finding the right angle and other small details, for all these issues you need a technician. 

So it's better to appoint a professional and save yourself from unnecessary efforts.

Choose Off Grid

After installing solar panels, most people think that they don't require a local electricity grid which is a very common mistake. Though solar panels depend on solar energy, which is limitless this energy comes with certain conditions, so it is not a wise decision to completely stop using this grid as most of your house appliances will still require power from electric grids.

Some of you might not aware that government give you a rebate and incentives on saving electricity which is only possible if your solar panel is tied to the electric grid. Everybody has different requirements and space on the roof so don't think that what suits your relatives and friends will go the same for you just to save money So don't copy anybody and make your own choice according to your requirements. 

Aus-Brite provides best solar panels in Australia. You can contact us or talk to our experts if you are looking for the best price for a solar panel.