It Ain't Easy Being Green

Back in May we had Solar installed, a shiny new 5kw system. Meant to be able to generate more power than the two of us could possibly use! It was put up on my Birthday and I was pretty excited. We took out a big tree that was blocking our panels, watched the monitor carefully and became those weird people that run around turning off everything at the point.

Our first bill came. We saved a massive $11. Say what?! In fact we didn't save anything, our usage didn't go down, but we received $11 back in credits. Hmmm something isn't right. We back and forthed with the solar company, looking for some answers, someone to help. Unfortunately this company would only send the contractor who installed it and if he didn't find anything wrong with the way he installed the panels there would be a $250 call out fee...

So we talked to different companies, suppliers and the power companies again and again, they all agreed something was wrong but they wouldn't look into it, go back to your installer they said! Finally we met Willy at Rheem, one of the nicest people I have ever met! Helpful, so helpful! Willy has organised for his Tech to go over our bills, help us figure out what is going wrong and how to get the Installer to fix it! YAY!

Whilst catching up with Willy we talked about upgrading our hot water system. We have the saddest little tank, it has a lean and only holds enough water for two quick showers and preferably not back to back. It's also responsible for 50% of our energy consumption!

We talked about solar hot water but that wasn't going to work as it is craned onto the roof, our roof is on top of the house which is on top of a hill, a crane wasn't an option. Evacuated tube solar was suggested and looked pretty good but it is $5000 for a ETS system. That is after the Government rebates! We are now looking at a lovely new electric one, not the best for the environment but still better than the one we have! Have you seen those great videos on Tesla battery storage? I saw them and thought "Yes! Suck it power companies and your $1.30 a day connection fee!" but my new friend Willy showed me how it was only really worth it if your power bill was over $8000 otherwise it takes a ridiculously long time to actually get ahead. Devastating!

If you are considering solar and live in Brisbane let me know and I'll pass you on Willy's details.

If you have solar how is it working for you? Do you actually find it a benefit? Or do you just hold your breath and close one eye whenever the electricity bill comes in?