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Solar battery and electric vehicle options for homes
Your renewable energy future starts here
Discover more about buying, using and making the most of your household energy assetsFrequently asked questions
- What are household energy assets?
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Household energy assets, also known as distributed energy resources, can include solar PV systems, household batteries and electric vehicles. Thermal energy storage, smart meters and home energy management technologies can also be considered household energy assets.
If you have solar panels on your rooftop, and you’re now considering how to get a solar battery in WA, or you’re driving an electric vehicle, you’re already connected to renewable energy – and some exciting possibilities for the future – through these household energy assets.
- What government incentives are available for solar, batteries, and EVs in WA?
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To encourage even more people to invest in household energy assets such as solar battery installation, WA Government incentives and a range of other government incentives are available for solar, household batteries and electric vehicles in WA. These include the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme, Distributed Energy Buyback Scheme, rebates, and interest-free or low-interest loans.
- How do I know if a solar battery system is right for my home?
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Do your research to make an informed decision. While the potential benefits of solar can be worthwhile for many households, the decision to install a battery isn’t right for everyone. The cost to install solar and then a battery can be a barrier for many people, or sometimes a household’s energy use means they might not be able to make the most of the potential benefits of solar.
- Can I install an EV charger at home, and what are the requirements?
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The EV charging option which is most suitable for you will depend on your budget, driving needs, garage set up, whether you own or rent your home and other factors. Here’s a quick guide:
- Level 1 charging involves simply charging your EV at home from a wall socket.
- Level 2 charging allows generally faster charging from a home wall box or at home with electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). If you invest in a Level 2 electric vehicle charger, you will have the power to charge your EV faster. Your EV charger will need professional charging installation from a licensed electrician – but the upfront cost could be worth it in terms of reducing the time spent charging your EV.
When you’re working out which kind of electric vehicle charger is most suitable for you, consider your electricity usage habits, driving needs and the type of EV you have. These factors can help you to work out the type of EV charger you might need.
- How do solar panels, batteries, and EVs work together to reduce energy costs?
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Solar panels can help households reduce their electricity costs by generating free electricity that can be consumed by the home, rather than drawing that electricity from the energy system. If electricity generated by a solar PV system can’t be consumed as it’s generated, a household battery can store that energy for use at a later time, such as at nighttime when the sun isn’t shining. Electric vehicles can also be charged using solar panels, which could further reduce charging costs.