Solar energy is the energy derived from the sun's radiation that can be harnessed and used to generate electricity using solar panels. Solar panels are placed on your roof or in your yard and they convert sunlight into electricity. This electricity can be used immediately, stored in batteries for use later, or even sold back to the grid.

Using solar energy has many benefits. It’s a renewable and sustainable source of energy that doesn't produce any greenhouse gases or other emissions that contribute to air pollution. This makes it an environmentally friendly energy alternative that helps conserving the planet's natural resources and reduce carbon footprint. It also helps to reduce the burden on the traditional electricity grid, which can be unreliable and expensive. By installing solar panels on rooftops or other facilities, individuals and businesses can generate electricity on their own, save money on energy bills, and even sell surplus power back to the grid. Overall, solar energy is a cost-effective, clean, and reliable energy source that also has the potential to create job opportunities and boost economic growth.

Yes, if you have a battery storage system or an off-grid solar system you can use the energy stored in your batteries during a power outage. A battery backup system will store excess solar energy in a battery bank, which can be used later when there is no sun or during a power outage. An off-grid system, meanwhile, is designed to operate completely independently of the grid, so it is unaffected by power outages.
On the other hand, if you have a grid-tied solar system, then you may not be able to use solar power during a power outage because these systems automatically shut down for safety reasons to prevent back feeding into the grid.

Excess energy generated by your solar panels is stored in the batteries until it’s needed. The stored energy is then sent back through the inverter to be used when your solar panels are not producing enough energy.
When the batteries are charged, they store electrical energy in chemical form, and when that energy is required, the chemical reaction is reversed, and the stored energy is converted back into usable electrical energy.
Battery storage systems can be used for a variety of applications, including providing backup power during power outages, reducing electricity costs by storing solar energy when it is plentiful and using it during periods of high demand.

The cost of solar energy and battery storage varies depending on several factors such as the location, size of the system, and type of batteries used. However, the cost of solar panels has significantly decreased in recent years, which has made solar energy more affordable. On average, the cost of installing solar panels ranges from $0.70 to $1.50 per watt, which translates to $3,500 to $7,500 for a 5-kilowatt solar panel system. Similarly, the cost of battery storage depends on the type of battery and its capacity. The cost of lithium-ion batteries, the most commonly used type of battery for energy storage, has also decreased in recent years. Integrating solar panels with battery storage can further bring down electricity bills by enabling households and businesses to store excess power generated during the day for use at night when solar systems are not producing electricity.

The amount of energy a solar panel system can produce depends on various factors such as the size and type of the panels, the geographical location, the angle and direction of the panels, and weather conditions. On average, a 6.6kw residential solar panel system in Western Australia can generate around 11,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually. However, larger commercial solar systems can produce significantly more energy. The efficiency of the solar panels also plays a crucial role in determining how much energy a system can produce. Most panels have an efficiency of around 15-20%, but there are higher efficiency panels available on the market. Overall, solar panels offer a reliable and sustainable source of energy that can significantly reduce your reliance on traditional energy sources while also offering significant cost savings.

A typical solar panel system has a lifespan of 25-30 years. This is because solar panels are made to be durable and designed to withstand harsh weather conditions like heavy rain, snow, and high winds. However, the lifespan of the solar panel system may depend on factors such as maintenance, installation quality, and the type of solar panels used. Proper maintenance such as regular cleaning and inspection can help to extend the lifespan of a solar panel system. Additionally, technological advancements in the solar industry may lead to longer-lasting solar panels as newer models are made with more advanced materials and technologies. Overall, investing in a solar panel system can provide a reliable source of renewable energy for many years to come.

In general, solar panels can be installed on most types of roofs including metal, tile, and flat roofs. However, before installation, it is important to conduct a preliminary assessment of the roof to ensure that it is structurally sound and able to support the weight of the solar panels. Other factors to consider include the roof's orientation, shading from nearby trees or buildings, and local building codes and regulations. Additionally, certain types of roofing materials may require specialized mounting systems or installation techniques. Overall, it is best to consult with a qualified solar installer who can assess the roof and recommend the best course of action for a successful solar panel installation. Please note, the type of roof can significantly affect the cost and installation process.

Solar panels rely on sunlight to generate electricity, so they are less effective during cloudy, overcast, or rainy conditions. During these conditions, the amount of energy produced by solar panels decreases, which means that output is reduced. Additionally, if there is heavy cloud cover or a storm, electricity production can be entirely disrupted.

Fortunately, battery storage technology can help mitigate the impact of cloudy or rainy periods. By installing battery storage alongside solar panels, any excess electricity generated during periods of sunny weather can be stored and then used when the panels are less efficient. This helps to ensure a constant supply of power, regardless of the weather conditions.