Yes, First Sun Solar is a Clean Energy Council Accredited Installer and an Approved Solar Retailer, ensuring the highest standards of service and installation.

The installation timeframe varies based on the system size and complexity, but most residential installs are completed within a day.

Yes, it is possible to retrofit an existing solar system with a battery bank.  For typical daily residential use, between 3kWh - 15kWh of storage is appropriate.

This is an excellent way to reduce the impact of blackouts by making solar electricity available 24/7. Solar panels are almost always compatible with energy storage systems. However, inverters that can work with batteries typically cost more and have only been on the market for a few years – so many people considering adding batteries to their existing solar power system do not have one. Although, some batteries with an in built invertor can still be added to these older systems.

If the existing invertor is less than 5kW, you may need to consider upgrading your solar system size.  We recommend having more, but 5kW is the minimum required to produce enough power on overcast days or in the winter to partially charge a battery.

Usually, the best option is to install a completely new solar system rather than expand the existing one.  Provided there is room on your roof, the new system can be installed as a second, separate system that runs parallel to your existing system.

The cost varies based on factors such as system size, equipment, roof type, and installation complexity. We offer personalized quotes during our free solar assessment, ensuring transparency and no hidden fees.

We only install reliable and reputable tier 1 panels, invertors and batteries.

The appropriate size depends on factors like your energy consumption, roof space, and budget. Our experts at First Sun Solar conduct a thorough assessment to recommend the ideal system size tailored to your needs.

Whilst STC's are not considered a 'rebate', if you buy a solar system in 2023, it is subsidised by a federal government scheme worth about $396 per kW installed. This is based on a $36 STC price after fees. That’s around $2,590 off on a typical 6.6kW system that is usually applied at the point of sale; i.e. any advertised prices you see almost certainly have the solar rebate already applied.

Current legislation means the solar rebate started to reduce by one fifteenth every year from Jan 2017 until it drops to zero in 2031.

The $1000's of dollars you get off your solar system price (usually by assigning the rights to its STCs to your installer) does not actually come from the government, but rather compels other people to buy your certificates. So it is a government run scheme, using other people’s money to provide the subsidy.

STCs are allocated to a renewable energy system using the following formula:

Postcode Zone Rating x Deeming Period Years x System Size in kW = Number of STCs created

The only criteria for claiming it are:

1) Your PV system is less than 100kW in size.

2) You get it installed and designed by a Clean Energy Council accredited professional.

Solar Feed-In Tariffs (FIT) are programs where homeowners or businesses are paid for the excess electricity their solar panels generate and feed back into the grid. The amount paid per kilowatt-hour (kWh) varies by location and is an important consideration when deciding to install solar.

Yes, transitioning to solar energy can lead to substantial long-term savings. While the initial installation cost may vary based on the size of the system and specific requirements, solar panels typically have a lifespan of 25 years or more. During this time, you'll generate your own electricity, reducing reliance on the grid and lowering your monthly energy bills. Additionally, government incentives, rebates, and the potential to earn credits through Solar Feed-In Tariffs (FIT) can enhance your savings. Our team at First Sun Solar can provide a personalized assessment, outlining the potential cost savings specific to your property and energy consumption patterns.

Our solar panels come with industry-standard warranties, ensuring long-term performance and peace of mind for our customers.

Solar systems generally require minimal maintenance. Although, it is advisable to clean solar panels periodically to ensure optimal performance. While they are designed to be self-cleaning to some extent, dust, dirt, bird droppings, and other debris can accumulate over time and reduce efficiency. Regular cleaning, typically twice a year, helps maintain the panels' effectiveness and ensures they can capture the maximum amount of sunlight. However, cleaning should be done carefully using a soft brush or sponge and mild detergent to avoid damaging the panels. If you're unsure or prefer professional assistance, the team at First Sun Solar can provide guidance and services to keep your solar system in peak condition.

Yes, solar panels can still generate electricity on cloudy days, although their efficiency may be reduced compared to sunny days. While direct sunlight is optimal for maximum power production, solar panels can still harness diffuse sunlight and UV rays that penetrate through clouds. Modern solar technologies are designed to capture sunlight under various conditions. While energy production might be lower on overcast days, your solar system will still contribute to your overall energy needs. Additionally, the excess energy generated on sunnier days can be stored in batteries or fed back into the grid for use during cloudy periods, providing a reliable and sustainable energy source.