Australians are consuming electricity at a rate that is not sustainable through traditional sources. Solar power is a renewable energy source that’s naturally available to us every day, which helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and also slows down the consumption of fossil fuels, a natural resource of energy that cannot be replaced once the Earth’s reserves are exhausted. Canberra residents are becoming more environmentally aware and solar installations have increased at a truly rapid rate. The Clean Energy Australia 2010 report reveals there was more solar power installed on rooftops in 2010 than for the entire previous decade. Mr Towndrow said while some homeowners were still wary about investing in a system due to the associated up-front costs, Solar Shop Australia has created an Australian first to make switching to solar quick and easy. “Solar Shop Australia has developed Sunworks, a uniquely tailored finance package that enables individuals to go solar for $0 upfront and repay the amount in fortnightly instalments, which are usually a similar amount to what they were paying for their electricity bills,” he said. “Government rebates are also available to assist with funding. Most Australians benefit from the State Government Feed-in Tariffs, where owners of a grid connect solar power system receive a premium
reimbursement for every unit of electricity that is exported back to the grid. “Additionally, solar panels make a valued addition to the family home. The real estate market is experiencing growing demand for houses with green credentials, which increase the property’s value, while also passing on the benefits of solar power to the next generation,” he added. Educating young people about solar is a key factor in a sustainable future and Solar Shop Australia is proud to be one of the panel providers to ACT public schools. They completed a 30kW pilot project at Kingsford Smith School in Belconnen in July 2010 and will supply, install, monitor and maintain the grid connected photovoltaic systems, helping to facilitate the education of the students and provide a great example to them. “With electricity costs on the rise, it not only makes good sense environmentally, it makes good financial sense, ensuring homeowners have financial independence for years to come,” Mr Towndrow said. For more information, drop into our retail store or call 133 765. You can also visit us online at solarshop.com.au to learn more, book a free home consultation or register for one of our free, regular information sessions.
ABOUT SOLAR SHOP AUSTRALIA Solar Shop Australia has more than a decade’s experience in delivering and is the one of the nation’s leading providers of premium, quality solar power systems tailored specifically to households and commercial needs. Their products and services are available at outlets throughout Australia. Solar Shop Australia is passionate about the benefits of renewable energy and to remaining at the forefront of solar technology for the good of the individual, community and environment. For more information visit www.solarshop.com.au
32