Antinuclear

South Australia’s renewable energy success, despite planned cutbacks in solar feed-in tariff

SA’s love affair with renewables isn’t just solar-focused; the state also has the largest wind power capacity in the nation. According to the  Australian Energy Market Operator, approximately 29% of South Australia’s electricity came from renewable energy sources in 2012.

South Australia Solar Feed In Tariff Countdown http://www.energymatters.com.au/index.php?main_page=news_article&article_id=3872  5 Aug 13, South Australia’s feed in tariff will be slashed for new applications soon. To avoid the inevitable applications rush; households intending going solar may want to make a move now.

South Australia’s current solar feed in tariff for surplus exported electricity is comprised of two parts-  a retailer contribution of  9.8c and a 16 cent component paid by SA Power Networks.

It’s the 16c component that will only be available for new applications up until the end of September. For those who get their applications in on time, the 16c will be paid until 30 September 2016; greatly accelerating payback time on a system.

According to solar solutions provider Energy Matters; taking into account the 16c, a 3kW solar panel system installed in Adelaide can generate a financial benefit of up to approximately $1,280 a year.

In an effort to break down a major barrier to more South Australians going solar; Energy Matters offers a zero-deposit “Save As You Go” payment plan whereby electricity bill savings can be more than repayment levels. For example, a 3kW system the company currently has on special can be acquired for under $3 a day.

Energy Matters advises that while the SA Power Networks application deadline is the end of September, historically major feed in tariff cuts have been accompanied by significant rushes; with some missing out. The company suggests interested parties start making arrangements to acquire a system now.

Blessed with significant solar resources, South Australia’s residential PV uptake has been stunning. The electorate of Mayo in South Australia has the highest solar power system saturation rate in Australia, with 25.43% of homes in the electorate having rooftop solar panels installed.

SA’s love affair with renewables isn’t just solar-focused; the state also has the largest wind power capacity in the nation. According to the  Australian Energy Market Operator, approximately 29% of South Australia’s electricity came from renewable energy sources in 2012.

August 5, 2013 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | solar, South Australia