The privacy of personal information you provide is very important to us. The following privacy policy governs the collection and use of your personal information by Nickel Energy (NICKEL ENERGY). This privacy policy sets out how we are committed to respect your rights to privacy in accordance with the National Privacy Principles contained in the Privacy Act 1988.
How do we collect personal information?
We may collect personal information from you directly by telephone, facsimile, email, post or via our website. We may also receive information via an intermediary, a company with which we may have a relationship such as an association. What types of personal information do we collect? We collect personal information about you to enable us to assess your solar power requirements. The types of personally identifiable information that we may collect include your name, address, telephone number and email address. When we request your personal information, we will endeavour to specify which information we require for our purposes and which information may be provided at your option. You may choose not to supply any optional information requested by us but our ability to assist you may be restricted.
How do we use your personal information?
In order to deliver our services to you, Nickel Energy uses your personal information for the following purposes:
- to complete a transaction to which the provision of that personal information relates;
- to communicate information about our products and services to you;
- for our internal administrative, marketing, planning, product development and research requirements;
- to conduct our day-to-day business such as establishment of pricing and delivery logistics.
You may at any time opt out of receiving any communications from us. If you wish to opt out, please contact us using the information at the end of this document.
Do we ever disclose your personal information to others?
We do not sell our client lists to third parties. In order to deliver our services, we may need to disclose your personal information to organisations outside of Nickel Energy including:
- our subcontractors or installers so that they may make arrangements for the installation of your solar system;
- service providers such as mailing houses and market research agencies;
- power utilities in respect of connection agreements;
- credit reporting agencies;
- government and other regulatory authorities as authorised by law.
When explicitly requested by you, the client, we may refer personal information to one of our associated companies so that they may assist you in their area of expertise, e.g. finance brokers. Otherwise, we do not disclose personal information unless we are required to do so by law or regulation
What rights do you have to access your personal information?
You may ask us at any time to provide you with a list of the personal information we hold about you, and for copies of that personal information. We will endeavour to provide you with the data within 30 days of receiving your request. Nickel Energy reserves the right to charge reasonable costs to provide you with access to your information. If you believe for any reason that we are holding inaccurate or incomplete data about you, you may ask us to correct it. We will consider if the information requires amendment. If we do not agree that there are grounds for amendment, then we will add a note to the personal information stating that you disagree with it.
How do we store your personal information?
We take all reasonable steps to protect your personal information from misuse, loss, unauthorised access, modification or exposure. We require all staff to maintain the confidentiality of customer information. Access to information stored electronically is restricted to employees whose job requires access to the information. Access to our computer systems is restricted through password protection.
How can we be contacted?
You can make any requests relating to your personal information held by us by contacting any member of staff via our Contact page, by emailing to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or by writing to the General Manager, Nickel Energy, PO Box 633, Lismore, NSW 2480, Australia.
Disclaimer
This privacy policy is subject to amendment at any time without notice. Information received prior to an amendment will remain subject to the policy applicable before the amendment.
About this web site
This is a web site operated by Nickel Energy (ABN 33 553 020 022) ("NICKEL ENERGY") under the domain name "www.nickelenergy.com.au" ("NICKEL ENERGY Web Site"). The NICKEL ENERGY Web Site is operated on behalf of NICKEL ENERGY. Your use of the information, graphics and materials on the NICKEL ENERGY Web Site ("Material on this web site") is governed by these Terms of Use and the Privacy Policy. In addition to the terms contained in this document, there are also specific terms which form part of the Terms of Use and govern your use of, and access to, certain sections of the NICKEL ENERGY Web Site. Since you are also bound by these additional terms, you should review them wherever they are accessible by you on the NICKEL ENERGY Web Site.
Links to other web sites
The NICKEL ENERGY Web Site may contain links to other web sites operated by third parties ("Third Party Web Sites"). NICKEL ENERGY does not endorse, or approve of the operators of Third Party Web Sites, or the information, graphics and material on those Third Party Web Sites ("Third Party Material").
Subject to any applicable law which cannot be excluded, NICKEL ENERGY makes no warranties or representations:
- regarding the quality, accuracy, merchantability or fitness for purpose of Third Party Material or products or services available through Third Party Web Sites; or
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NICKEL ENERGY is not authorising the reproduction of Third Party Material by linking Material on this web site to Third Party Material.
When you follow a link on the NICKEL ENERGY Web Site, material at a Third Party Web Site may be displayed in your browser framed by Material on this web site. This material is also Third Party Material for the purpose of these Terms of Use. All offers to sell and statements relating to goods and services available on Third Party Web Sites are the responsibility of and given by the Third Party Web Site operator. In so far as such offers and statements are made on the NICKEL ENERGY Web Site, such offers and statements are made by NICKEL ENERGY on behalf of the operator. NICKEL ENERGY expressly disclaims acting in any other respect on behalf of Third Party Web Site operators.
Third Party Software
Unless otherwise indicated downloads available via links from the NICKEL ENERGY Web Site are third party products. These products may be subject to a licence agreement between you and the relevant product owner. To the extent permitted by law, NICKEL ENERGYaccepts no liability in respect of such third party products and NICKEL ENERGY provides no warranty and give no endorsement in respect of such products or any party connected with them. We do, however, welcome your feedback or suggestions concerning these products.
NICKEL ENERGY Product Information and Supply
Material on this web site may contain general information about NICKEL ENERGY products and services. Unless expressly stated otherwise, this information:
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For further information about a particular product or service please complete an online quote or contact us.All applications for credit are subject to the conditions and approval criteria of the relevant financial services provider.
Unless expressly agreed otherwise:
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Warranties
While we have made every effort to ensure that information is free from error, NICKEL ENERGY does not warrant the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of Material on this web site. All information is subject to change without notice. NICKEL ENERGY recommends that you seek independent advice before acting upon Material on this web site or Third Party Material. NICKEL ENERGY does not guarantee that the NICKEL ENERGY Web Site or Third Party Web Sites will be free from viruses, or that access to the NICKEL ENERGY Web Site or Third Party Web Sites will be uninterrupted.
Limitation of Liability
Subject to any responsibilities implied by law and which cannot be excluded, NICKEL ENERGY is not liable to you for any losses, damages, liabilities, claims and expenses (including but not limited to legal costs and defence or settlement costs) whatsoever arising out of or referable to Material on the NICKEL ENERGY Web Site or to Third Party Material, whether in contract, tort including negligence, statute or otherwise. Liability of NICKEL ENERGY for a breach of a condition or warranty implied by law or otherwise, and which cannot be excluded, is limited to the extent possible, at NICKEL ENERGY's option, to:
- the supply of the goods or services again;
- the repair of the goods; or
- the payment of the cost of having the goods or services supplied again or repaired.
Termination
These Terms of Use (and the agreement constituted by your use of the information, graphics and materials on the NICKEL ENERGY Web Site) and your access to the NICKEL ENERGY Web Site may be terminated at any time by NICKEL ENERGY without notice. All restrictions, licences granted by you and all disclaimers and limitations of liability by NICKEL ENERGY will survive termination, however, you will no longer be authorised to access the NICKEL ENERGY Web Site.
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Unless expressly agreed otherwise:
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Copyright in the Material on this Web Site is owned or licensed by NICKEL ENERGY. Except where necessary for viewing the Material on this web site on your browser, or as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968 (Cth) or other applicable laws or these Terms of Use, no Material on this web site may be reproduced, adapted, uploaded to a third party, linked to, framed, performed in public, distributed or transmitted in any form by any process without the specific written consent of the NICKEL ENERGY. "NICKEL ENERGY", and all associated trademarks, are trademarks of Nickel Energy.
Linking to NICKEL ENERGY Web Site
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You acknowledge and accept that your use of the NICKEL ENERGY Web Site indicates your acceptance of these Terms of Use and the Privacy and Security Statement. These are the current Terms of Use. They replace any other terms of use for the NICKEL ENERGY Web Site published on the NICKEL ENERGY Web Site to date. NICKEL ENERGY may at any time vary the Terms of Use by publishing the varied Terms of Use on the NICKEL ENERGY Web Site. You accept that by doing this, NICKEL ENERGY has provided you with sufficient notice of the variation. NICKEL ENERGY reserves any rights not expressly granted in these Terms of Use.
“Fire and Rescue NSW has not seen any evidence of a trend of solar panels causing fires, nor have there been any reported major safety issues at fires where solar panels are present. Our fire and rescue officers are trained to deal with all types of fires and emergencies, including hazards associated with electricity and solar panels. Australian Standards require that signs are attached at the meter of switchboards warning that a solar array is on the roof.”
Panels
Q.Cells
Since Q-Cells SE was established in 1999, it has grown into one of the world’s leading photovoltaics companies. Its extensive product portfolio ranges from solar cells, crystalline and thin film solar modules to turnkey photovoltaic systems. Q-Cells’ products are developed and manufactured at its headquarters in Bitterfeld-Wolfen (Germany) and marketed via its global sales network. It also has a second production plant in Malaysia. The more than 200 scientists and engineers at Q-Cells are working to swiftly advance solar technology and achieve Q-Cells’ twin aims: driving down the costs of photovoltaics quickly and permanently, and making solar power competitive.
Download Data Sheets:
• Data Sheet - Q.PRO - G2 230-250
Universal
Universal Solar (Australia) is the culmination of an extensive search for reliable solar technology. They have forged a partnership with a solar technology manufacturer who delivers consistent quality products. Our name, Universal Solar, is the English translation of Wanxiang Solar. Established in 2006, Wanxiang Solar is part of the “New Energy Division” of the Wanxiang Group. The Wanxiang Group was established in 1969. Wanxiang is rated in the top 5 privately owned companies in China and has built its reputation by delivering exceptional quality in all its manufactured products. Wanxiang have world class manufacturing facilities in China and the USA, with plans to be one of the world’s largest manufacturers of solar technology which will be achieved by leveraging innovative technological competence and our proven capacity for large-scale manufacturing, coupled with localised distribution and operations. In addition to solar technology, Wanxiang is also involved in automotive parts manufacturing, agriculture, aquaculture, wind energy, electric vehicles, LED lighting and their unique China Bridge program to aid international companies doing business in China. Today with 40,000 employees and USD $10 Billion annual turnover, Wanxiang is fast becoming a major player in international trade. Universal Solar understands that when customers are choosing long term renewable energy solutions they expect and demand quality, they want to be guaranteed that the products will deliver year after year and the company will be there to support their products. Backed by Wanxiang’s 40 year history of excellence in manufacturing, Universal Solar treats quality as it highest priority. Passion is a driving force in their business and they are determined to make a difference, to be successful, but above all to contribute to the longevity of our planet.
Download Data Sheets:
Inverters
The inverter is technologically the most important component in any solar power system: it converts the direct current generated in photovoltaic cells into alternating current suitable for the grid. In addition, it is an intelligent system manager, responsible for yield monitoring and grid management. Solar inverters are characterized by a particularly high efficiency.
Aurora
There is one word alone that makes Power One "Aurora" grid connect inverters a stand out. Flexibility. With a Power One inverter you can start your PV system at 1kW and add one panel at a time if you wish, all the way through to 2kW, 3.6kW, 4.2kW, 5kW or 6kW depending on which model you install. Designed and manufactured in Italy, the Power One range of inverters breaks the old traditions whereby you are forced to use a narrow range of PV array configurations. Performance barriers are also completely shattered with Aurora inverters. The combination of extremely high efficiency, super fast real time Maximum Power Point Tracking, and a never before seen ultra wide input voltage window of 90 to 580 Volts, gives annual yields far and above the nearest competition. And that's what is all about, "annual yield over the four seasons". More output on cloudy days, more output on hot days, more output whatever mother nature throws at your PV array. This is the result when each key inverter specification is engineered to be second to none. The revolutionary performance of Aurora inverters ensures the best possible return on your investment, both financially and environmentally.
Download Data Sheets:
• Data Sheet Aurora Inverter Indoor 2000w3600w
• Data Sheet Aurora Inverter Indoor 3000w4200w
• Data Sheet Aurora Inverter Outdoor 5000w-6000w
• Data Sheet Aurora Inverter OUTDOOR PVI 2.0
• Data Sheet Aurora Inverter OUTDOOR PVI 3.6 and 4.2
Kaco
Kaco’s inverters meet all the expectations you place on top-quality, modern inverters: easy to use, innovative technology, maximum efficiency and durability are all features of our grid-tie inverters. At KACO “Made in Germany” are not just empty words. All processes from development to production take place in Germany. KACO has been producing power supplies of all kinds for over 60 years. Our decades of experience are the basis for the successful inverter Series.
Download Data Sheets:
• Data Sheet - Kaco Powador 2002 Inverter
• Data Sheet - Kaco Powador 3002 Inverter
• Data Sheet - Kaco Powador 4202 Inverter
• Data Sheet - Kaco Powador 5002 Inverter
• Data Sheet - Kaco Powador 6002 Inverter
SMA
SMA Solar Technology AG develops, produces and sells solar inverters and monitoring systems for photovoltaic applications. SMA is the world’s largest producer in this segment and is the only vendor that has a product range with the matching inverter type for any module type and any power class. This applies for grid tied applications as well as island and backup operation. The Sunny Boy solar inverters characterize the Technology- and Quality-Leadership of our company. They are optimally suitable for use in small and mid-range systems. They impress with first class efficiency, user-friendliness and reliability. The Sunny Boys have been repeatedly acclaimed - and are constantly developing. Our new Generation come with innovative technologies such as OptiTrac and H5-Topology. These make the device even more efficient - and therefore ensure a very good solar yield.
Download Data Sheets:
• Data Sheet - SB3800 SB3300
• Data Sheet - SMC6000TL-8000TL
• Data Sheet SMA SB1100_1700
• DataSheet - SB2500_3000
• DataSheet - SMC4600_6000A
Mounting Equipment
Our concreteless ground mount rack utilises proven building technology to create fast and efficient installs. The rack is specifically designed and engineered to Australian standards to last for the life of the system.
• No Concrete
• Low Cost + 20% Savings
• Fast 10kW Ground Mount Rack 1 Day
• No Sub Contractors required
• BCA Australian Standards compliant
The footings are driven in with a jackhammer to pre determined depths depending on soil types and the rack is fixed off with a cordless drill. The product is covered by a 7 year parts warranty.
Download Data Sheets:
• Nickel Energy Ground Mount Rack Brochure• Engineering Certificate
Solar Panels
Conergy
Conergy is a global leader in the manufacture, distribution and system integration of renewable energy. The company, founded in Hamburg, Germany in 1998, has the philosophy to deliver the best renewable energy solution for every consumer worldwide. Conergy Australia is a key wholesale distributor in the Australian renewable energy market, manufacturing and supplying high efficiency solar power. With an Australia-wide distribution network, state sales offices, in-house renewable energy engineers, sales teams and warehousing in 6 key locations around Australia, the company has fast become a key player in the Australian industry since it began operations here in 2005. Conergy has a dedicated team of engineers that plan and commission major multi-megawatt renewable energy projects and worldwide has already realised solar systems with a total power output of over 1.5 GW. Conergy stands for superior quality products, solid warranties and operational experience – we are a strong, reliable partner by your side.
Q.Cells
Since Q-Cells SE was established in 1999, it has grown into one of the world’s leading photovoltaics companies. Its extensive product portfolio ranges from solar cells, crystalline and thin film solar modules to turnkey photovoltaic systems. Q-Cells’ products are developed and manufactured at its headquarters in Bitterfeld-Wolfen (Germany) and marketed via its global sales network. It also has a second production plant in Malaysia. The more than 200 scientists and engineers at Q-Cells are working to swiftly advance solar technology and achieve Q-Cells’ twin aims: driving down the costs of photovoltaics quickly and permanently, and making solar power competitive.
Universal
Universal Solar (Australia) is the culmination of an extensive search for reliable solar technology. We have forged a partnership with a solar technology manufacturer who delivers consistent quality products. Universal Solar (Australia) is the trading division of a wholly Australian owned company.
Sunpower
SunPower has been developing world record-breaking solar technology since the 1970s. Our history has been marked by creativity, craftsmanship – and coincidence. Today, we are the global leader in developing high-efficiency solar solutions for homes, businesses, commercial buildings and utilities.
Solar Hot Water
Conergy
Conergy is a global leader in the manufacture, distribution and system integration of renewable energy. The company, founded in Hamburg, Germany in 1998, has the philosophy to deliver the best renewable energy solution for every consumer worldwide. Conergy Australia is a key wholesale distributor in the Australian renewable energy market, manufacturing and supplying high efficiency solar hot water. With an Australia-wide distribution network, state sales offices, in-house renewable energy engineers, sales teams and warehousing in 6 key locations around Australia, the company has fast become a key player in the Australian industry since it began operations here in 2005. Conergy stands for superior quality products, solid warranties and operational experience – we are a strong, reliable partner by your side.
Inverters
SMA
SMA Solar Technology AG is the worldwide market leader for solar inverters, a leading supplier of transformers and chokes, and a provider of innovative energy supply solutions for mass transit and main-line rail transportation.
The inverter is technologically the most important component in any solar power system: it converts the direct current generated in photovoltaic cells into alternating current suitable for the grid.
Kaco
KACO began manufacturing sine inverters more than 60 years ago. The product portfolio offered by KACO today is being used around the globe for rail vehicle and photovoltaic applications. KACO new energy begins in 2010 as the world's second largest manufacturer of photovoltaic inverters. With over 3 GW of inverters in operation worldwide KACO is a trusted and reliable partner for photovoltaic systems across the globe.
Power-One
With its focus on Renewable Energy and “Green” power solutions, Power-One has recently established itself as the world’s second largest provider of solar inverters. Further, as one of the world’s ten largest providers of power conversion and power management solutions, Power-One is one of the few companies with the product breadth to support every step in the refinement of utility-grade AC into the various DC voltages required to power high-availability infrastructure systems at the site, system, and semiconductor levels.
Technical Questions
- How does it work?
- What is the 'grid'?
- What is a kilo watt hour?
- Does the system use batteries?
- What types of solar systems are there?
- What happens during a blackout with a grid connected system?
- Will the system power my whole houses electricity needs?
- How much of my houses electricity will a 1kW system supply?
- What happens if my system produces more power in a year than I use?
- If it is a rainy day, will I lose power?
- How do I know how much energy my system is producing?
- What maintenance is required on the system?
- What reduction in Greenhouse gas emissions will my system provide?
- Does the system work like solar hot water?
- Do you offer upgrades to 1kW systems?
- Do you offer high efficiency solar modules?
Our Products Questions
Installation Questions
- How do you know if my house is suitable?
- How long does the installation take?
- Do I need to be home on the day of installation?
- Where do you mount the solar modules?
- What is the optimum angle for the modules?
- Where does the inverter get positioned?
- What is a standard installation?
- What extra costs might there be?
- Is there any charge for changing the meter?
- My house is fully shaded, can I still have a system?
- How long from paying the deposit will it take for my system to be installed?
- What happens after you have installed my system and when do I pay the balance?
- My meter board is a long way from the house. Will I need a cable to be trenched in for the solar system?
- What type of roofs can you install on?
- How much roof space is required for a 1kW system?
- I have a flat roof, what are my options?
- I am planning a renovation after the solar is installed, what do I do?
- What is the quality of your installations?
Warranty Questions
- What is the warranty provided?
- Does the warranty of the solar modules cover hail damage?
- Who do I contact if my system is faulty?
Government Rebate and REC Questions
- Can I take the solar system with me if I move?
- What happens if I sell my house within 5 years from installation?
- What are REC’s?
- How many REC’s can be created?
Answers
Technical Questions
How does it work?
The solar panels convert the suns energy into DC (Direct Current) electricity via a process called the photovoltaic effect. The inverter then converts the DC into normal 240V AC (Alternating Current) electricity, feeding energy into your homes electrical wiring. The houses appliances use their immediate electricity needs and any excess energy is fed back into the grid (effectively spinning your meter backwards) gaining you credits on your electricity bill. During the night or in cloudy weather, your meter runs forward again. The whole process is seamless and automatic.What is the 'grid'?
The grid is the electrical connection network consisting of power stations, transmission lines and substations that feed electricity from the generating source to your home or business. 90% of Australia’s electricity comes from coal-fired power stations, which are a significant producer of carbon dioxide (greenhouse gasses) contributing to global warming and climate change. The other 10% comes from renewable sources such as hydro electricity, wind farms and solar.What is a kilo watt hour?
A kilowatt hour (kWh) is the measurement of electricity supply/usage. Your current electricity meter measures kilowatt hours which determines what you are billed. E.g. Using a 100W standard light globe for 10 hours, uses 1 kWh of electricity (100W x 10hrs = 1000Wh = 1 kWh). Kilo means 1000.Does the system use batteries?
No. Our standard grid-connected systems provide no backup power. They use the grid as their ‘battery bank’. The solar system provides your house with electricity in the day, with excess being sent to the grid, effectively spinning your meter backwards. During the night or in cloudy weather, your houses electricity needs are supplied from the grid, running your meter forward again.What types of solar systems are there?
There are 3 types of solar systems available: 1) Grid connected – has no batteries and requires the grid to operate. 2) RAPS (Remote Area Power System) or Stand alone – has batteries and is totally self sufficient, not requiring the grid. 3) Backup, Hybrid or grid-interactive – has batteries which can supply power in the event of a blackout and can also grid feed and have the batteries charged from the grid and/or solar system.What happens during a blackout with a grid connected system?
What happens during a blackout with a grid connected system?For safety reasons, the solar system is required to shutdown during a blackout, even in the day. We offer backup solutions that use batteries that can both grid-feed and supply your house during a blackout.
Will the system power my whole houses electricity needs?
That depends on the size solar system you have installed and the amount of electricity that you use. Your electricity bills for the past year are the best way to determine what you use. You can install a smaller solar system, which will supply part of your electricity use from the sun, with the balance being made up from the grid.How much of my houses electricity will a 1kW system supply?
Our 1kW system comprises of 6 x 175W monocrystalline solar modules. At an optimum, unshaded mounting location (True North, 24 deg pitch – Northern NSW), the system will produce 1506kWh/year. This is around a quarter to a third of an average homes yearly needs. In dollar value, at current rates of around 16.3c / kWh and a 1:1 buyback rate, this equates to about $245 electricity saving.
In other terms one of our 1kW systems will supply:
6 x 18W CFL (Energy saver light globes) used for 6 hours / day each – 236kWh/yr
Average Refrigerator/Freezer (400L) – 500kWh/yr
LCD widescreen TV (81cm) & set top box / DVD player used for 5 hours / day – 301kWh/yr
Medium Stereo used 6 hours per day – 87kWh/yr
5kg Washing machine used once/day – 55kWh/yr
Average laptop computer used 8 hours / day – 102kWh/yr
Boiling kettle 3 times / day – 98kWh/yr
Cordless phone and mobile charger – 43kWh/yr
Microwave oven (no clock) used 5 minutes / day – 45kWh/yr
2 Slice toaster used once per day – 20kWh/yr
What happens if my system produces more power in a year than I use?
You will receive credits on your electricity bill, and you can request payment annually for your excess electricity generation, while you pay nothing for your electricity consumption.
If it is a rainy day, will I lose power?
No. Your electricity usage will again come from the grid seamlessly as it does in night time.
How do I know how much energy my system is producing?
The inverter has a digital readout which shows the solar systems instantaneous, daily and total output figures. The bi-directional digital meter installed shows the import and export energy to/from the grid.
What maintenance is required on the system?
Very little. Rain will usually keep the solar modules clean, though in dry or dust conditions it may be necessary to hose down the modules or wash with soapy water and rinse. The inverter has a heatsink that should also be kept clean.
What reduction in Greenhouse gas emissions will my system provide?
A 1kW system will reduce approximately 1.6 tonnes of carbon dioxide gas being introduced into the atmosphere every year. Household electricity usage in Australia accounts for 17% of greenhouse gas emissions.
Does the system work like solar hot water?
No. Solar electricity is generated via the photovoltaic effect. Solar hot water uses the suns energy to heat water in pipes.
Do you offer upgrades to 1kW systems?
Yes. We can install a larger inverter with a 1kW system which will allow you to add more solar modules later. You can also add additional inverters and solar modules later to operate in conjunction with the original system.
Do you offer high efficiency solar modules?
Yes. We offer SunPower’s USA made modules that are 17.3% efficient. This means a 215W module is the same physical size as a regular 170W module, allowing greater utilisation of limited roof space.
Our Products Questions
Where are your solar modules made?
We source our modules from leading manufacturers in China and the USA through Australian distributors. We only use the highest quality products for our systems and can provide you full technical specifications.
What inverters do you offer?
We use German made SMA & Kaco, Austrian made Fronius and the new transformerless, high efficiency Aurora inverters from Power One made in Italy.
How do your backup systems operate?
We offer backup options that allow you to have a grid-connected system that can supply your electricity needs during a blackout. These systems use batteries which are charged either from the solar system, the grid or an external generator. When the batteries are charged and the immediate electricity needs of the house are supplied, excess electricity is exported to the grid gaining you credits. When there is a blackout, power is supplied to the house by the solar system (in day time), the batteries and the generator if needed.
Installation Questions
How do you know if my house is suitable?
One of our BCSE accredited installers will do a site inspection on your house at a suitable time to assess the options available to you and advise you if there are any additional costs.
How long does the installation take?
Usually less than one day.
Do I need to be home on the day of installation?
Yes. We will need access to your roof space and have access to an electrical outlet. We also want to be certain you are completely happy with our installation and show you how it works.
Where do you mount the solar modules?
On your most north facing roof with minimal shading, reducing cable lengths as much as possible. Systems can be mounted on East or West facing roofs, but a performance loss of up to 10% may be experienced.
What is the optimum angle for the modules?
In Northern NSW, the optimum angle is 24 degrees for a grid connected system. This is the latitude (29deg) – 5 deg which favours the longer summer days. This differs from a battery based system which generally has to favour the shorter winter days, when electricity usage is more.
Where does the inverter get positioned?
Usually near the meter board, but may be installed near a distribution board if that is the nearest connection point, keeping cable lengths from the solar modules as short as possible.
What is a standard installation?
A single storey house with a metal/tin roof, less than 20m of electrical cabling required and a suitable meter board or distribution board for the inverter connection.
What extra costs might there be?
There are extra costs for tile roofs, 2 storey houses, difficult roof access, greater than 20m of cabling, upgrading meter board or distribution board. You will be advised at site inspection if there are any of these costs.
Is there any charge for changing the meter?
Currently (Sept 08) Country Energy is not charging for the bi-directional meter changes in Northern NSW, though have advised that charges will be likely in the future and be in the order of $220.
My house is fully shaded; can I still have a system?
Shade is to be avoided as much as possible. The accredited installer at site inspection will determine what options are available to you. It may be possible to use a shed roof or build a ground mounted system in an unshaded area.
How long from paying the deposit will it take for my system to be installed?
It takes approximately 6 weeks for the government to pre-approve the rebate. Once you have received your pre-approval we aim to have your system installed with 3 months.
What happens after you have installed my system and when do I pay the balance?
Once the system is installed, we will test it and show you basic operation. We are then required to leave the system switched off until Country Energy checks the system and change the meter to a bi-directional type. This can take a week or two depending on Country Energy’s workload. Once the system has been switched on we require you to pay the balance (usually the rebate amount) and sign the installation completion report and the REC assignment note. You will then receive the rebate amount directly from the government in around 6 weeks.
My meter board is a long way from the house. Will I need a cable to be trenched in for the solar system?
No. We can connect the inverter to any distribution board inside a house or a shed.
What type of roofs can you install on?
Metal and Tile roofs. Tile roofs have additional costs due to greater difficulty in install. Asbestos roofs are not suitable.
How much roof space is required for a 1kW system?
Approximately 8 square metres is required for each 1kW of solar modules. We usually mount the modules in a row (1 row of 6) which is a total size of 5 m x 1.6m. We can also mount in other configurations such as 2 rows of 3 where each row is 2.5m x 1.6m. Our Suntech solar modules are 1580mm x 808mm x 35mm and weigh 15.5kg.
I have a flat roof, what are my options?
A flat roof in Northern NSW will still generate 89% of maximum. We can supply raised frames at additional cost if your existing roof meets AS1170.2 for wind loading requirements. Generally the additional cost of the raised frame will take many years to pay for itself.
I am planning a renovation after the solar is installed, what do I do?
The solar modules can be removed then reinstalled on the new renovation. This may require extra cabling and would take several hours of labour.
What is the quality of your installations?
We pride ourselves in our work and attention to detail. Our installers are BCSE accredited, experienced and monitor all stages of your installation. Our electricians are fully licensed and all parties carry liability insurance.
Warranty Questions
What is the warranty provided?
The solar modules we use all carry 25 year performance warranty. The inverters carry 5 year warranty. The frames have 10 year warranty. Installation has a 1 year warranty. All warranties are backed up by manufacturer’s distributors in Australia.
Does the warranty of the solar modules cover hail damage?
No. The solar modules are designed to withstand a 2.5cm (1inch) hailstone at 80km/h. You should check with your home building insurance company to make sure the system is covered should damage occur.
Who do I contact if my system is faulty?
Contact Nickel Energy and we will ascertain what the problem is and have it rectified under warranty if covered.
Government Rebate and REC Questions
Can I take the solar system with me if I move?
Not for 5 years. It is a requirement of the rebate that the system must be maintained, operating on the premises for 5 years from installation.
What happens if I sell my house within 5 years from installation?
The new owner takes on the 5 year rebate commitment with DEWHA from the original installation date.
What are REC’s?
Renewable Energy Certificates. This is a government legislated system for trading renewable energy generation and encourage its deployment. It is managed by the Office of Renewable Energy Regulator (www.orer.gov.au). As your solar system generates renewable energy, REC’s can be created from it. As part of our competitive solar system pricing, you assign these REC’s to Nickel Energy and we register and process them. This helps keep our price to you as low as possible.
How many REC’s can be created?
With a 1.05kW system installed in Northern NSW, 21 REC’s are generated for 15 years
As a respected provider of commercial solar, we understand the importance of simplifying solar power and discussing its benefits without jargon or hype. We’re here to provide you with enough information so you can make an informed decision about whether solar is for you.
Taking steps to install renewable energy solutions for your business is a decision that needs careful consideration. Our team of experts will work with your business to design a solar solution that suits your business needs and power requirements. We will also work with you to look for additional ways to improve your energy efficiency by completing an energy efficiency audit and recommending achievable measures.
Solar is a long-term love-affair
The long-term benefits that solar energy will provide to your business will not only reduce your environmental impact, but reduce your energy costs into the future, buffering your business from electricity price rises and ensuring that your cash flows where it matters most – back into your business.
Retail power is no longer the cheaper power option. Renewable solar power can now offer your business greater savings, today and into the future.
Are you eligible for funding?
Due to our large accumulation of experience in writing funding applications for programs such as CTIP (Clean Technology Investment Program) we get a high success rate on applications.
Contact us today to get some honest, straightforward advice on powering your business with sunshine.
