Hi everyone,

Sungrow inverters and batteries are generally regarded among Australian installers as being comparatively inexpensive, but not cheap on the quality side of things. Anthony explains why installers like Sungrow gear.
 
While on the topic of Sungrow, Ronald took a deep dive into Sungrow's Australian warranty, and how it compares with other inverter manufacturers.
 
There's been an exciting Australian breakthrough in sodium ion batteries that could revolutionise clean energy, extend EV range and boost food security. Learn more in this SolarQuotes exclusive (but note the date on the article!)
 
More news below!
 
Don't forget you can get 3 solar quotes from trusted solar installers at our website - and everyone can also stay in touch with what's happening on SQ via our Facebook page.
 
Regards,

SQ ON SOCIAL MEDIA

SQ VIEWS

An Installer’s Take On Sungrow Inverters & Batteries
Sungrow inverters and batteries are a popular choice for Australian solar systems thanks to their proven performance and accessible pricing. I thought I’d take a closer look at what makes Sungrow inverters such great value, along with some of their limitations.
 
Sungrow Warranty: Inverter = Good. Internet Dongle = Crap.
Sungrow is a giant manufacturer of solar inverters. A huge number are installed on and in homes across the country, so it’s a good thing their written warranty is among the best in the industry. Unfortunately, the warranty is still far from perfect.
 
Australian Researchers Develop Vegemite-Based Sodium Gel Batteries
SQ's Ronald is world-famous for his April Fools Day articles - and this year's was a corker.
 
Even more news below!

THE GOOD SOLAR GUIDE - READ ONLINE FREE!

7 Steps To Tiny Bills For Australian Homeowners - An Amazon Best-Seller!

The Good Solar Guide, authored by SolarQuotes founder Finn Peacock, demystifies the solar buying process in Australia; showing you how many panels you need, which panel brands to buy, which to avoid, and how to find a great installer.

The seven-step process revealed in this book, developed over 10 years in the industry, walks you through understanding, evaluating, buying, installing and using solar to deliver on its promise of tiny electricity bills. Order the book (available in paperback or Kindle) or read the whole book online free! Yes, for free. Crazy eh?

SOLAR NEWS

Installer Selfies And Australia’s Solar Rebate
When you see your solar installer taking selfies on the day of system installation, these aren’t just happy snaps or portfolio pics. Installer selfie photos are an important part of Australia’s solar rebate scheme.
 
Lots Of Love For Australian Lithium
Australia already mines a shedload of an important lithium-rich mineral, and looks set to be digging up much more over the next few years.
 
WA Town Ditches Reticulated Gas for Renewable Future
Esperance has (nearly) transitioned to full electrification – and a good thing too given the town’s private gas network owner and operator shut off gas supply on Friday.
 
Australian Solar For Solomon Islands School
An Australian team is about to set off to install solar panels on a school in the Solomon Islands – the first school in the island nation to get PV.
 
Australian Households Embracing Home Batteries
A record number of battery energy storage systems were installed in Australian homes and businesses in 2022.
 
Solar Rorts? Community Battery Pledges Questioned
Independent MP for Mayo Rebekha Sharkie has quizzed Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen over community battery pledges made while Labor was in opposition.
 
Solar Innovations: Look Ma, No Rails!
An ambitious microgrid project in South Australia is chock-full of interesting features. One of them is a rooftop solar panel mounting system that doesn’t use rails.
 
Recharging Australia With Strong Fuel Efficiency Standards
How much could Australian motorists collectively save with strong fuel efficiency standards in place? $11 billion over five years claims a new report. Here’s how.
  
Read more from the blog

SOLAR TOOLS & REVIEWS

There's a bunch of hardware and installer reviews along with handy and easy to use tools and calculators on SolarQuotes. Find them by clicking here.

FRESH IS BEST

If you're yet to get 3 obligation-free solar quotes from our network of trusted installers, or perhaps you didn't go ahead on a set of quotes issued previously for whatever reason and still want to install solar, now is a great time to submit for fresh quotes!

SUBMIT YOUR SOLAR REVIEW

If you're an Australian solar power system owner and would like to share a review of your solar panels, inverters, battery or installer with other potential Australian PV buyers to assist them in a purchase decision, SolarQuotes is the place to do it!
 
Please note in the case of solar panel and inverter reviews, the equipment should have been installed for at least one year.
 
Submit a review: Panels | Inverters | Batteries | Installers 
 
Pick up some tips on writing a review.

FINN'S "101" GUIDES

Understanding Solar
This runs through the basics of residential solar energy and the components that make up the system. It demystifies the magic turning sunlight into clean power for your home that can save you a bundle of cash on your electricity bills, and clearly explains some important concepts you should understand.
 
Buying Solar
My original guide, updated for 2023 that also includes a printable and video version. Now you have a basic understanding of all the bits that make up a solar power system and how they work to generate electricity, it’s time to think about getting quotes. After reading this, you’ll be able to communicate effectively with a salesperson and be confident you’re paying the right amount of money for a properly-sized system with the right components  – and from the right installer.
 
Owning Solar
The panels are now on your rooftop and the installers have packed up and left. What should you do now and how can you make the most of the new valuable addition to your home? From checking the installation to maximising electricity bill savings, find the answers here.
 
Understanding Home Batteries
This chapter will provide you an understanding of solar batteries – and will help you determine if installing one is right for you. It covers topics such as how a home battery works, the different types of energy storage and how energy storage can save you money.
 
Buying Solar Batteries
My guide to buying solar battery storage provides useful advice on how to go about purchasing a good quality home battery system installation at a reasonable price – and how to identify some of the traps. By reading this, you’ll be better equipped to make a solid purchase decision.
 
Owning A Battery System
As the proud new owner of home energy storage, you’ll want to make the most of it. This chapter provides very useful information about owning a battery system and maximising the benefits it can provide.
 
EV Charging 101
This comprehensive guide covers pretty much everything you’ll need to know about EV charging at home and away from it; and all explained clearly.