Solar Info Guide 2013

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    Solar Power

    InformationGuide

    Visit us online todaesolar.com.au | P 1300 GO SOLAR (46 7652) | E [email protected]

    Todae Solar is a proud member of:

    AustralianPV Association

    Solar Energy Industries Association INC

    Best Installation Greater Than 10kW Parliament House

    Todae Solar | CEC Award Winner 2012Todae Solar | CEC Award Winner 2012

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    Contents

    Solar Power Checklist ................................................................................................

    Why Go Solar? .............................................................................................................

    About Todae Solar.......................................................................................................

    How Solar Power Works .............................................................................................

    Solar Panel Comparison .............................................................................................

    How To Choose The Right Installer........................................................................

    When Warranty Isnt A Warranty ...............................................................................

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    Clean Energy Councils (Solar Accreditation Body) Solar Consumer Guide click here

    Whirlpool Forums Unedited Feedback on Todae Solar click here

    Todae Solars Clean Energy Council Award 2012 click here

    Todae Solars Installation on Parliament House click here

    Todae Solar Customer Testimonials click here

    Todae Solar Awards click here

    Resources:

    Todae Solar Solar Power Information Guide | www.todaesolar.com.au | 1300 GO SOLAR (46 7652)IndustryAwardWinner2012

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    Solar Power ChecklistThe benefits of solar power should last up to 25 years, so it is important to make sure you are making an educated

    and informed purchase decision comparing Apples with Apples. Many installers will tell you they have the best

    components and best service but make sure you ask them the following questions:

    The Company

    Been in business for 9+ years

    9+ years experience in solar power

    Accredited and experience team of system designers, engineers

    and project managers

    Offer you a dedicated project coordinator for you system

    Are master distributers for Solar Panels and Inverters

    Awarded 2012 Best Installation by the Clean Energy Council

    Trusted by large organisations including Parliament House, ING

    and The Catholic Education Office

    Provide details of all their public liability insurances

    Completed thousands of solar installations across Australia (all

    States)

    Do they provide a cooling off period

    Offer site inspections

    Solar System & Components (Premium System)

    Does the quote list all components, component brands and costs

    upfront

    Is every system designed by an accredited system designer &engineer (rather than a sales person)

    Have the Solar Panel and Inverter manufacturers been in business

    for more than 10 years

    Are the Solar Panel and Inverter manufacturers one of the top 5

    manufacturers globally

    Are the Solar Panel and Inverter manufacturers publically listed

    on NASDAQ or Frankfurt stock exchange

    Has your installer provided you with a strong level of comfort that

    your Solar Panel manufacturer will be around in 25 years (or 5

    years) to meet any warranty claim

    Do the Solar Panels include 3rd party warranty insurance

    Do the Solar Panel and Inverter manufacturers have local Austral-

    ian offices

    Are Solar Panel and Inverter warranties handled in Australia

    Do they provide a 5 year warranty on workmanship

    Installation

    Is the installation done by local installers

    Has your Solar System provider rigorously tested and chosen the

    best local installer to install your system

    Is the warranty on your installation held with a well-established

    national company that you feel confident will be around forthe next 5 years to meet any warranty claim

    Is the installation custom designed to your roof

    Todae SolarAverage Local

    InstallerOther

    Installer

    ?

    ?

    ?

    ?

    ?

    ?

    ?

    ?

    ?

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    Why Go Solar?

    Five Great Reasons To Invest In Solar

    1. Cut Your Power Bills

    Electricity costs will continue to rise. Estimates vary, but electricity tariffs may double or triple

    over the next decade. Solar power provides a way to hedge against rising electricity costs.

    Solar panels will produce electricity free of charge for 25 years. A small investment now will

    reduce or entirely eliminate the impact of pending electricity price rises.

    2. Make Your Investment Go Further

    Using the Federal Governments STC subsidy, youll get a better return on your solar invest-

    ment. A large part of the true cost of installing your Solar System will be paid by Government

    subsidy. The balance will be paid over time by the Solar System itself. Please note: the

    subsidy will not last so its important to act promptly.

    3. Improve The Saleability Of Your Home

    An Australian Government Sponsored study (SAVEenergy SAVEmoney Study) has confirmed

    that more energy efficient homes attract a greater resale value. This trend is likely to increase

    over time. Investing in solar will reduce your living costs and will improve the saleability of your

    home. Many people like energy efficient homes and will pay more for the privillege of living in one.

    4. Big Return On Investment

    Its difficult to predict just how fast electricity prices will rise and impossible to predict how

    government policy may change over time. However, we do know that as long as the sun

    shines yourSolar System will produce power. Whether you use all the power you make or

    supply surplus power to the electricity grid, you will quickly recover the cost of the initial

    investment.

    5. Reduce Your Environmental Impact

    Dont rely on Governments alone; take responsibility for the impact your home has on the

    environment. Solar power is a small personal investment with a global return.By producing the

    power you would otherwise buy from coal- powered power stations, your Solar System will

    offset thousands of kilograms in CO2 emissions over its design life.

    Solar power is a fantastic way to reduce your energy bills and your household impact on the environment. Now is

    the perfect time to go solar as energy prices continue to rise. This guide is an easy to read and simple explanation

    of solar power, which will help you understand what you need to look for when purchasing solar power. Yourinvestment in solar means you receive the benefits and savings on your electricity bills for up to 25 years, so you

    want to make sure you are choosing the right company and right components to ensure you get the optimum return

    from your investment.

    Todae Solar Solar Power Information Guide | www.todaesolar.com.au | 1300 GO SOLAR (46 7652)IndustryAwardWinner2012

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    Todae Solar was founded in 2003, with a focus on high quality end-to-end solar installations. Todae

    Solar is one of Australia's leading solar power installers having installed thousands of systems across

    Australia including Parliament House. With offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Canberraand Perth we take the hassle out of solar power for your home.

    5kW Gawler

    East, SA

    2kW Chermside

    West, QLD

    8kW Rose Bay,

    NSW

    5kW Canning

    Vale, WA

    9kW Calwel,

    ACT

    5kW Sunshine

    West, VIC

    Featured Installations:

    Clean Energy Council Award Winner 2012 Todae Solar. Best Installation Greater Than 10kW Parliament House

    Parliament House Solar Installation By Todae Solar

    Experience

    Our team of expert solar consultants, engineers,system designers, project managers and solar

    installers have well over 50 years of combined

    experience in solar power. It is with this experi-

    ence that we provide the highest level of service

    and quality.

    Trusted Name

    Todae Solar is one of Australias most trusted solar

    installers. Since 2003, Todae Solar has installed

    thousands of systems on homes, businesses andschools around Australia. So you can rest assured

    you are in good hands with Todae Solar.

    Hassle Free Approach

    We take the hassle out of solar power. Our expertsolar consultants will happily provide you with all

    the necessary information you need about solar;

    whilst our project management team ensure your

    installation is meticulous managed.

    Highest Quality

    Todae Solar has relationships with renowned and

    reputable manufacturers offering high quality

    components and cutting-edge technology. Ourinstallers go through a rigorous selection process

    with most having over 10 years experience.

    About Todae Solar

    Todae Solar Solar Power Information Guide | www.todaesolar.com.au | 1300 GO SOLAR (46 7652)IndustryAwardWinner2012

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    Solar Panel Comparison

    Around 90% of the worlds photovoltaic (PV) panels - or solar panels - use cells made of some variation of crystal-

    line silicone, and these cells come in two main types: Monocrystalline (mono) and polycrystalline (poly).

    Essentially, the difference between mono and poly cells is indicative by their names a monocrystalline cell is

    produced from a singular silicon crystal, while a polycrystalline cell is produced from a piece of silicon that

    consists ofmultiple crystals. In the past, mono has been a predominant choice for Australian customers (due to

    marketing by local solar installers), however new technologies and developments have seen the gap between

    mono and poly close significantly.

    According to Trina Solar, currently, 53% of Australians using solar power have used mono panels for their installa-

    tions, compared to 47% using poly. This current popularity isnt necessarily because the mono is better, but

    because historically they have performed better, and because of the monos longevity in the solar industry it has

    been perceived by the public to be better than poly. However, through technological developments, poly panels

    now have a comparable cell performance to that of mono, but they can be produced at a much lower cost.

    Overall, there is a strong future for both cell types as the gap between their relative optimum efficiency rates gets

    smaller, and the development of both mono and poly is still continuing, however, what does make the difference is

    your circumstances. For example, if you live in an area that is 30+ degrees most days a poly system might be

    more beneficial for you as it has better heat resistance. From another angle, if you live in the middle of Sydney

    or Melbourne and have minimal roof space then a mono system might allow you to get more out of your system

    simply because the panels may be smaller or have a greater output.

    As a professional and experienced installer, Todae Solar can help you to better understand which system will

    benefit you and your conditions most.

    Each cell is made of singular crystal silicon.

    Recognizable by its dark, black uniform colour,and diamond shaped spaces, smaller cells.

    Approx. Panel Efficiency rate 15-17%*- becausethe cell uses a higher purity-silicon, it convertslight to electricity more efficiently.

    Nominal Operating Cell Temperature 45C*

    Temperature Coefficiency Pmp 0.45%/C * theperformance of the cells is affected more if itstoo hot or too cold.

    Monocrystalline cells are more expensive tomake, and thus are more expensive to purchaseand install.

    Each cell is made of multi-crystal silicon.

    Recognizable by variations across the cellsbetween light and dark blue colours, perfectlysquare shape, larger cells.

    Approx. Panel Efficiency rate 14-16%*- becausethe silicon used to make the cell isnt as pure itdoesnt convert light to electricity as efficiently.

    Nominal Operating Cell Temperature 46C (+-2 )*

    Temperature Coefficiency Pmp 0.41%/C* thiscell tolerates high temperatures better, but doesnot perform as well in colder temperatures.

    Polycrystalline cells are more cost-efficient tomake, therefore, they are cheaper to purchaseand install.

    Monocrystalline Polycrystalline

    There is minimal difference between mono & poly panels, the key is to focus on what will provide

    the best output for your home.

    *Approximate comparative efficiency rates between same/similar modules for both mono and poly.

    Mono VS Poly Panels Whats All The Hype About?

    Not much really! There isnt much difference at all between the two technologies we supply both.

    Todae Solar Solar Power Information Guide | www.todaesolar.com.au | 1300 GO SOLAR (46 7652)IndustryAwardWinner2012

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    How To Choose The Right Installer

    National Installers VS Local Installers

    The benefits and savings from your solar power last for25 years, so you want to make sure you choose the right company toensure the optimum return on investment and peace of mind. But should you choose a national installer or your local solar

    electrician for your installation?

    The Benefits of ExperienceAs a national installer, Todae Solar has a number of distinct advantages, first and foremost of which is experience. We have a

    network of offices all around Australia, and have performed thousands of installations on homes, businesses and large

    scale commercial projects across the country, including the solar project forParliament House in 2011. That kind of extensive

    and varied experience guarantees you the expertise and specialised knowledge that local installers cant compete with.

    Company History & LongevityAs a national installersince 2003 our company has longevity and history in the industry, which is a massive advantage for

    several reasons:

    a) Consumers can feel secure that we can cover the solar component warranties, and are better able to back the products

    and services over the length of the warranty, as well as guarantee the life of your PV unit.

    b) Consumers can be assured of our strong and direct relationship with manufacturers and that we can provide ongoing

    service after sales for the years to come.

    The solar industry has seen hundreds of local installers close down. We de-risk this process by providing a direct warranty,

    and we have been in business almost 10 years and are trusted by organisations such as Parliament House, ING, Clubs NSW

    and dozens of councils and schools across Australia.

    The Benefits of EngineeringWith Todae Solar, consumers are guaranteed up-to-date accredited systems and procedures, and you can be assured

    complete compliance with all regulations, procedures and certifications that ensure you get the highest quality installation,

    including accreditation.

    As a national installer ouraward-winning project management team and in-house engineering team are experts in their

    areas to provide all our customers with a system that is custom designed to suit their house and energy needs. Each team

    member is specifically trained and has extensive experience in their area, whether thats designing your roof top system or

    customer service.

    The Benefits of ServiceWhilst we do not provide face to face consultation like some local installers; we provide a highly professional end-to-end

    service including a dedicated project coordinator. Whilst you may receive a site visit initially from a local installer, they cannot

    provide you with the dedicated support and service that our project management team ensures every customer receives. As a

    customer, you cant be sure that a local installer will have the breath to provide you with the full service that Todae Solar

    provides, as they manage multiple jobs, tasks and customers by themselves.

    The Benefits of High Quality ProductsAs an experienced national solar company, we only offer the highest quality Tier 1 products; whereas local installers oftenofferunbranded cheaper components. For example, we have direct & long standing relationships with our Tier 1 brands

    including Canadian Solar (Publicly listed company & Top 5 panel manufacturer globally) and SMA (World renowned leading

    German inverter manufacturer). All our components are researched and tested; with our solar panels coming with locally

    based warranties as well as 3rd party insurance on the warranties so you can rest assured your system is truly guaranteed for

    the entire warranty period.

    The Benefits of Stringent Quality Control & Installer SelectionDespite being a national company, we use local sub-contractors to install our solar

    systems. This means you receive all the benefits of going with a national company and have your

    installation done by a local installer. We de-risk this process by putting all our local contractors

    through a rigorous screening test, check their work, and ensure they are working to our national

    standards and not cutting corners. So you will probably end up with a local, but will have thebenefit of our project management, engineering, and after sales service.

    Realistically, installing solar power on your home is a significant, long-term investment and

    choosing a national installer like Todae Solar just makes sense.

    Todae Solar Solar Power Information Guide | www.todaesolar.com.au | 1300 GO SOLAR (46 7652)IndustryAwardWinner2012

    CEC

    With Todae Solar,

    you will probably

    get a local, but it

    will be the BEST

    local.

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    When a Warranty isnt a Warranty

    Every solar installer will tell you they have the best solar panels and inverters that are backed by 25 year and 5 year warranties

    respectively. If your installer is not willing to tell you what brand the panels and inverters are, you should immediately

    look elsewhere when else would you spend thousands of dollars on a product without knowing the brand?

    Many installers use cheap Tier 3 components which are manufactured by companies with little

    or no history in solar manufacturing you should be weary of companies that offer a 25 year

    warranty on their products but have been manufacturing them forless than 5 years.

    When buying a solar system the warranties are one of the most important factors to consider, if

    not the most important. Youre spending a lot of money on your system, what good is that if you

    dont have the peace of mind if anything goes wrong it will be fixed.

    A warranty will often only be honoured if the company is still in business. Many lower end

    solar manufacturers have already gone out of business this is why it is important to choose a

    reputable brand like Canadian Solar; and better yet if they have a 3rd party insurance on their

    warranty (like Canadian Solar).

    Make sure the manufacturers have a local office, and that warranties are serviced locally

    many low end products do not offer this.

    Having confidence in your solar system components is extremely important, and having a warranty you can trust is essential to a

    good solar system.

    Tier 1 Manufacturer (Top 5 Globally)

    Residential & Commercial Installations

    Tier 1 Manufacturer (Top 10 Globally)

    Residential Installations

    Tier 1 Manufacturer (Top 5 Globally)

    Commercial Installations

    Our Researched & Tested High Quality Brands:

    Solar Panels:

    Manufacturer has been manufacturing solar components for more than 10 yearsManufacturer has local offices and the warranty is administered locallySolar Panel manufacturer has 3rd party insurance.Manufacturer is a large and reputable brand with a global presenceManufacturer is vertically integrated (controls the sourcing of components) which ensures

    quality is maintained throughout the extraction & manufacturing process

    Manufacturer has an R&D department to ensure their products are high qualityManufacturer is top 5 globally

    Make sure your components meet the following:

    Inverters:

    Worlds Leading Manufacturer

    Residential & Commercial Installations

    Number 1 Chinese Inverter Manufacturer

    Residential & Commercial Installations

    Tier 1 Manufacturer

    Commercial Installations

    Todae Solar Solar Power Information Guide | www.todaesolar.com.au | 1300 GO SOLAR (46 7652)IndustryAwardWinner

    CEC

    A 25 year

    warranty is only

    worth the paper

    its written on if

    you are confi-

    dent the manu-

    facturer will be

    in business for

    25 years

    In 1912 there were 500 Auto manufacturers in the US and now there are 4 Similar consolidation

    will happen in solar. Make sure you pick the winning brands.