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Connecting to the Grid

There are many sources of renewable energy. Solar photovoltaic, wind turbine and micro-hydro energy systems are recognised as the three most common. A grid-connected renewable energy system can have one or more of these energy sources. A system with more than one type of energy technology is called a hybrid system.

Special power conditioning equipment is required to convert the electricity from the renewable energy source to 240V/AC electricity suitable for your home appliances and for feeding back onto the grid. This includes an inverter to convert the direct current electricity into alternating current. A typical grid-connected renewable energy system is illustrated below.

Battery storage can be included in the grid-connected system to supply energy at times when renewable energy is insufficient to meet your home energy demand. However it is not a necessary component as grid electricity can be used at these times. The battery bank can be charged by excess renewable energy and/or grid electricity. It may provide an uninterruptible power supply, although inefficiencies in charging a battery bank wastes electricity.

Cost of Grid Connected Renewable Energy Systems

A grid-connected renewable energy system for a residential home can cost from $5,000 to $50,000. The cost varies due to:

• The amount of energy your house consumes and when it uses most of the energy;
• The proportion of your energy consumption you choose to be met by renewable energy;
• The technology you choose to use; and
• The location of your house and the availability of a suitable site for the renewable source.

For example, a 1kW solar photovoltaic system will cost around $15,000 and produce 4 to 7 kWh of electricity each day over the daylight hours. The average all electric home uses around 12kWh each day.

How to Select a Grid-Connected Renewable Energy System For Your Home

• Contact the Australian Greenhouse Office for information on possible systems, and seek independent advice.
• Make sure you get Local Government approval for your proposed installation.
• If you have chosen a grid-connected renewable energy system that can export to the grid, you will need to complete a Western Power application form.
• Submit your application form to Western Power. Synergy will contact you regarding your REBS eligibility. 

List of Suppliers of Renewable Energy Systems

To be eligible for the Commonwealth Photovoltaic Rebate Program (PVRP) , power systems must be designed by a supplier accredited by The Australian Business Council for Sustainable Energy.

Please note - this list of suppliers is provided for general information only and is not an endorsement by Synergy of any product or service made, sold or provided by these companies.