Woohoo - we may get solar panels!

Pretty sure you can -
Just plan the layout for the final cell configuration and this will make sure the invertor is big enough to cope with the final current (Amps) you will be generating.
Steve

Hi stonecutter1309,

Are you looking at this as a way to save money? If so, you will be sorely dissapointed. Sorry to spoil it but you may as well know before you make your final descision. Here is the maths:

Typical annual output from a 1kw system in a year: 700 KWH

Typical upper end cost per KWH: 15 cents

Annual saving: 700 x 15 cents = $105

Now put $5000 in the bank at 6.5% intrest

Deduct inflation at 2.5%: 4%
Annual return: $200
Deduct Tax at lets say 40%: $120

So you are marginally better off and your assett is not depreciating. If you use a level playing field and allow depreciation:

No deduction of inflation so rate remains at: 6.5%
Annual return: $325
Deduct tax at 40% leaves: $195

So you are quite a lot better off.

That said, they helps the environment and they are really cool

if you want to upgrade later you have to spend a bit more up front as Yak_Chat said you have to get a bigger inverter that I have been geting quotes for and add between $1500-$4500 depends on brand and upgade!!

GRD 1000 at normal price with larger inverter – extra $1630. This will permit you to add to the original system of 8 panels, 4 panels at a time, twice, until you have added 8 more panels. This will allow your total system to reach 2080 watts.

Alter the GRD 1000 $13900 by adding 2 extra panels, extra racking and a larger inverter that lets you add 1 more panel at a time, until you reach 16. So you start with 10 panels, and can expand to 16 panels which gives you a 2080 watt system. The extra cost for this is $4220. Unlike the inverter in the first option, which gives no read out and needs to be internally mounted, this model gives a read out and can be externally mounted.

and then if you go bp panels it get to be even more


Supply, Installation & Commissioning of Solar Grid-connected Solar Power Systems


We are pleased to offer a grid-connected solar power system for your house.


1K W Solar Energizer solar system $14,900
(6 x 165 watt BP Solar panels & 1700 watt inverter)

Installation, subject to site inspection, including all electricians costs $3,000

Total installed system cost $17,900

Photovoltaic Rebate Program (PVRP) rebate - $7,920

BP Solar Enviro Cash Back - $ 495

Net out-of-pocket cost to you, after all rebates have been paid $9,495

Notes:

1. System expandable to 12 x 165 Watt panels

2. Installation varies, and is subject to site inspection.

3. Deposit of 10% to be paid upon ordering.

4. Balance of materials to be paid prior to delivery to site.

5. Balance of system cost payable on completion of installation. Rebates are claimed after system is installed.

6. All work performed by BCSE accredited staff, with worksafe procedures being observed at all times.

7. Any charges by Energex for inspection of wiring or changeover of meter are to be paid directly to Energex by the customer.


as you can see we would get $8 per watt from government and 50 cents a watt from bp.

We too have enough $$ to afford to be a bit more environmental.

Also they are already talking about making the buy back 2 to 1 or even better so the money side of it could get better sooner than you think.

And one last thing to bp systems come with this cool little talking point!!!

http://www.springers.com.au/Products.aspx?ProductID=748

Thanks! It doesn't look too pricey to go the upgraded inverter.

And that wireless gadget is awesome!

That's always good to hear Things should start for us around May - I better get my skates on and get organised!