Want to get the lowdown on what makes a solar project successful? In a webinar on May 20 our experts took a closer look at the ins and outs of solar projects.
Whether you’re looking to unlock value from your energy or meet sustainability targets, solar has a place in every energy strategy. In case you missed the webinar, we’ve recapped the key takeaways from the session below.

Why the shift towards solar?

Solar continues to be the cheapest form of new generation and as the industry grows, so does the business case for it. In Australia, we’re deploying renewables ten times faster than the global average, according to IRENA. Each year, solar projects become more readily accessible in terms of cost and technology. Right now, businesses can take advantage of the government’s new tax incentives to make a stronger business case for solar too. You can read more about these measures here and here. Get the inside knowledge, watch the full webinar below.

I’m looking at solar, what do I need to know?

It’s not always as easy as having space on your roof or an empty paddock. If you’re looking at a solar project in the next 3-6 months, you’re not alone. The majority of our webinar audience is in the same boat. Before you get started,  you’ll need to know your interval data and your current electricity contracting arrangements. Be ready to run the numbers yourself…or be prepared to find someone who can do this for you.

How will solar fit into my energy strategy?

Consider what your plans are for the final project. You may want to build a solar project on one site but use that power across other sites. This can be done with the right virtual net metering solution. You may also have sustainability goals, which could be met by adding more renewables into the mix through a wind or solar Virtual Generation Agreement (VGA) and surrendering large-scale generation certificates (LGCs) to offset your footprint.

Will I only benefit from a large solar project?

Your solar project doesn’t need to be large to unlock value for your business. Even small-scale solar projects  can deliver savings if treated as part of a broader energy strategy and set up correctly.

I’ve decided that I want to get the ball rolling with solar, where do I start?

Before you begin to set the wheels in motion, there are a few key things that you’ll need look at first:
  • Understand your objectives: whether you’re making the switch to solar for economic or sustainability development goals, it’s important to be clear about what you’re trying to achieve. This is also be the time to speak to internal and external stakeholders, whether it be your local distribution network or consent authority, to bring them along on the journey.
  • Assess your energy needs: take a look at your historical demand and future energy requirements to help benchmark your project. The most successful solar projects meet their owners’ energy requirements now and in the future.
  • Understand your limitations and constraints: an in-depth look at your site may unveil some unexpected land conservation requirements that could determine whether or not you go ahead with a project. Similarly, knowing if your business has any operational limitations or funding requirements can help you plan for a project that best meets your goals.

Need a helping hand?

We’re able to oversee the end-to-end delivery of projects for our customers. From planning, design, delivery, operation and maintenance. This means we can offer strategic advice on how to bring solar into your energy strategy. We can also give you the option to contract a solar project under a  power purchase agreement to avoid capex and capture the cost under one bill. You can read about the solar projects we’re building and speak to your Account Manager about how we can manage projects on your behalf and wrap them into retail agreements.