Top 5 questions about solar energy answered! If you've got questions about solar power, you're not alone. Read the blog to some of people’s most common questions!

1. Do solar panels produce power when the sun isn't shining?

Yes, solar panels produce power based on UV light, so even during a cloudy day panels can still produce power. A great way to maximise this is through solar batteries, which capture and store unused energy generated by your solar panels for you to use when the sun isn’t shining.

2. Can we go off-grid with solar panels?

It’s possible to go entirely off-grid with a solar system. However, unless you have a large solar battery to complement your panels, it’s unlikely. A battery acts like a storage system for your energy, ensuring you have enough power to see you through a full 24-hour period and periods of low-light days.

3. Do we still get an electricity bill?

Yes, even if you have reduced your traditional electricity bill to nil, you may still incur some fees as electricity bills typically contain service to property charges and you’ll likely still have charges for night-time usage.

4. How can I tell if I need to increase or upgrade my system?

Typically, if you are consuming most of your solar energy and don’t have enough to meet your daytime needs, you potentially need a bigger system.

5. How much maintenance do solar panels need?

Experts recommend you have your panels professionally cleaned annually to minimise the effects of soiling and increase panel output. Panels usually last up to 25 years, although it’s likely your solar inverter will need replacing from anywhere between five and 15 years.