Solar panel technician installing solar panels on roof
Camera IconSolar panel technician installing solar panels on roof Credit: Supplied/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Three ways Perth business owners can take advantage of solar power

Natalie HordovCommunity News

OFFERING significant cost-savings, solar power is an absolute no-brainer for businesses, according to Amanda Energy managing director Martin Jurat.

“Not only can an investment in solar typically achieve a rate of return between 14 per cent and 30 per cent and save tonnes of CO2 per year, it can also increase the value of your property at the same time with improved Green Star and NABERS ratings,” he said.

Mr Jurat said there were three easy ways for a business to take advantage of the power of the sun.

PerthNow Digital Edition.
Your local paper, whenever you want it.

Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE

Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.

READ NOW

1.       Purchase and install a system

Mr Jurat said often the payback period is three years or less.

“The key is to install the right system based on a detailed analysis of the business’ electricity use – every 30 minutes for the previous year or two,” he said.

“The solar generator should be sized so nearly all solar generation is used on site at the time it is generated; over-sizing can waste capital cost while under-sizing is missed opportunity.”

2.       Finance the system

Businesses should conduct comparisons when it comes to financing any solar systems they install.

“If you’re paying $200 per month on finance and you’re saving $250 on electricity, you’re essentially getting a free solar system,” Mr Jurat said.

“Over a five-year finance term, you’ve benefited from a free system and then it’s totally paid off and giving you the full benefit.”

3.       Install a free solar system under a Green Plan

“Solar has huge benefits for business but often the decision to install it can come at an opportunity cost for businesses,” he said.

“For example, do they spend $30,000 on installing solar, or spend that money on plant and equipment that will also benefit the business.

“We offer options that allow businesses to have the best of both worlds.”

Amanda Energy can install a free solar system on the roof of a business and then charge discount for the solar electricity consumed, which will be a guaranteed 10 per cent cheaper than the standard electricity price.

Where appropriate, Amanda Energy can also rent roof-top space from commercial property owners and install and operate solar systems.

The building owner benefits from the income stream plus the increased yield from the roof-top rental.

For information on how your business can save with solar, contact Amanda Energy on 9430 7048 or visit www.amandaenergy.com.au.