Hi everyone,
 
Welcome to another issue of the Solar Quotes weekly newsletter - please feel free to forward it on to others.
 
Victoria's government gave solar buyers in the state some very good news on the weekend - a  new immediately available rebate that can cut the cost of installing solar panels by 50% (up to a maximum of $2,225) - that's on top of Australia's existing solar subsidy. Here's what you need to know. 
 
While on the topic of solar rebates and incentives, Tony Abbott has embraced the ACCC’s recommendation to axe Australia’s major solar subsidy early - what a surprise.
 
In other news, SQ's Ronald has compared Origin Energy’s Solar Flex leasing agreement with private ownership - read how it stacks up. Also last week, Sun Metals' solar farm, which consists of more than 1.3 million solar panels, was officially opened.
 
More on these stories and other 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 VIEWS

Victoria's SolarHomes Rebate Explained
A new solar subsidy is now available in Victoria that can reduce the cost of installing solar panels by 50%. Here's what you need to know.
 
Death Match: Origin Solar Flex Leasing Vs. Buying Your Own System
This is Thunderdome. Two methods of putting solar on your roof enter. One method leaves. Today’s deathmatch is between Origin Energy’s Solar Flex leasing agreement and Private Ownership!

THE GOOD SOLAR GUIDE NOW AVAILABLE

7 Steps To Tiny Bills For Australian Homeowners!

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 download the first chapter free today!

SOLAR NEWS

Redflow Battery System Managing Heritage Building Peak Energy Demand
Energy supply challenges for the renovated Darling Building in Adelaide were solved through the use of an energy storage system with batteries supplied by Australian company Redflow. 

Victoria’s Solar Homes Package Rebate Program – Reactions
The new solar rebate announced by the Andrews Labor Government on Sunday has been getting a lot of attention – we’ve certainly noticed increased activity originating in Victoria here on SolarQuotes. 
  
Mars Solar Rover Still Silent
Is this the end for the plucky little solar powered Mars rover Opportunity? Even if it has bit the dust, Opportunity has given far more than was originally expected of it. 
 
Abbott Backs ACCC’s Call For Solar Subsidy Axing
Shock, horror. Tony Abbott has embraced the ACCC’s recommendation to axe Australia’s solar subsidy early.
 
German Pilot Solar Panel Recycling Plant A Success
An industrial solar panel recycling plant built in Germany as a pilot project has performed well according to the European Commission’s Community Research and Development Information Service (CORDIS). 
 
Nissan JV Company Accelerates Electric Vehicle And Solar Power Plans
Dongfeng Motor Company Limited (DFL) says it will accelerate its “Green 2022 Plan”, which will see 20 electrified vehicle models by 2022, plus three solar farms developed. 
 
Sun Metals’ Solar Farm Officially Opened
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk officially opened the Sun Metals Solar Farm last Tuesday, a huge facility incorporating more than 1.3 million solar panels. 
 
Mixed Messages On The Future Of Australia’s Solar Subsidy
Is there any real threat of the subsidy for home and small commercial solar power systems being thrown off a cliff – and very soon? It depends on who you listen to. 
 
SunPower : AC Solar Panels Are The Future
SunPower’s CEO has said AC solar panels are the future, but will its AC modules have a future here in Australia? Local SunPower fans might think even a present would be good for starters.
 
Read more from the blog

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 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 | Installers 
 
Pick up some tips on writing a review.

USEFUL SOLAR INFO

NEW! Solar Panel Comparison Table
Easily compare solar panels, specifications and their prices side-by-side in our new solar panel comparison table.
 
Solar Power Forecast Tool
We developed this handy tool in collaboration with WeatherZone to help you forecast your solar system's output up to 48 hours ahead. 

Important Mistakes To Avoid In Buying Solar 
Don't become a lost sheep in a field of wolves. Learn about the top 7 mistakes people make when buying solar power systems.



13 Questions To Ask A Solar Company
Before you sign on the dotted line, ensure you have satisfactory answers to these important questions.

Solar Battery Storage Explained
How to buy a solar system with battery storage. Do you need backup functionality or not? How much should you pay, and what batteries are safe and reliable?
 
Compare Solar Feed In Tariffs 
Make sure you are getting a good solar feed in tariff - try this easy to use comparison tool

Solar Battery Comparison Table
Discover battery prices and specifications of dozens of energy storage solutions with our solar battery storage comparison table.