geez, some shocking reviews on that one
definitely one to avoid
[NSW] 6.6kw Solar Power Installation for $2399 @ solarpowernation » All Comments
A must read to consider before making a move with these guys. Something smells a bit strange but potential customers should do their own research.
https://forums.whirlpool.net.au/archive/2602688
The whole "10 year warranty" thing is ridiculous for a company (in the shape of this business name) has been around for 3 years.
To be fair it’s four out of five stars isn’t bad. The bad reviews generally aren’t about the workmanship or the gear, it’s the taking the deposit and not getting a quick install date.
Due to offering best price in the market, we have a lot of jobs, which is why installations are delayed.
However, not everyone is willing to wait and bear with us. So they end up cancelling by getting their deposits back.
We often require little to no deposits, and customers only pay after we install the jobs.
It is true that you can never make everyone happy.Is Newcastle included as metro or are you Sydney only?
@Bellpop: Hi Bellpop,
we service all over NSW, but anything over 80km from Wetherill Park attracts travel charge 1$ per km.@mnalam24: Both ways or just to the house. It’s 165km so 165-80= $85.
Can you pm me and give me a call?
Thanks fair. I’m keen. Book me in. I’ll report back to everyone on ozbargain and let you all know how I go 😬
@SydBoy: Why the f would you put up a system with a 5kw inverter and 3kw of panels?
Thats like the opposite ratio for a well implemented system to give maximum STCs (gov rebates are on panels not inverters) and performance.
@SydBoy: Whatever, your (wasted) dime.
Any installer who takes that setup is 100 percent not doing a job in your best interest, and failing to educate you in the best way to implement a solar system
@SydBoy: Hi, please email [email protected] for a detailed quote with your choice of products. Pls mention ozbargain
@SydBoy: Hi Sydboy, please email [email protected] for a detailed quote with your choice of products. Pls mention ozbargain
there is a big difference between customers complaining that their installations were delayed due to demand
VS
"September 2018 and still i can't get an installation date nor a refund of my money after requesting it in writing plus so many phone calls to them. It's has been more then 7 months now since placed the deposit and I have given up on trying to contact them"
looks like there is a common trend of you not returning multiple contacts or at least even letting them know of why there is a delay or even a promised schedule date
PASS
@Samsungnote10: Sure, but that said, more people whinge and report than the people who get what they pay for and go about their lives. Worst case scenario u file a complaint with fair trading and get your money back and name and shame on those websites if that’s the case. Their product review page is pretty impressive.
@Bellpop: there is always people who are going to exaggerate or even write fake reviews, but me personally, i find the feedback all too consistent and too siginficant
if the complaints were "promised to install within 2 months but took 3, good product" or "a bit slow on communications but the product is good" it wouldnt bother me too much
there are a lot of companies that have gone belly up, thus not providing warranty, and even Fair Trading wont help
for me combined with numerous warranty issues, its a no go for me
but I can understand those that arent too bothered by the reviews
@Samsungnote10: My neighbour recently helped a plumber remove a broken solar hot water, unit manufactured 2016 installed jan 2017 ripped out due to breaking last month. Owner had to use home insurance to repair and fix water damage and installer is gone in only 2 years…
Point is warranty is important
@Bellpop: Completely true. But certain complaints should never be.
Which is why stars don't mean much to me (yes, I'm weird). People vote 1's or 5's in today's society. Its what they write that interests me.
@Samsungnote10: Recent reviews:
Stay away, run for your life, cheap is nasty, the system was installed in May 2019 and failed 1st September 2019, I have made 12 calls to date and nothing, no call back, nothing, every call I have promised a call back from service within an hour 16 days and still nothing, time for a visit face to face Wetheril Park. DO NOT USE THIS COMPANY
or
I was originally impressed with this company with the solar power panel system that I got a second one for my daughter.
Now I am pulling my hair out. This is because there is zero after-sales support. I am even having issues with Solar Power Nation honouring the terms of the warranty.
This is my problem. One of the 5 Kw Goodwe inverters failed within days of installation. It is supposed to be a brand new inverter. Solar Power Nation reassured me they will attend to the matter promptly. But this solar power panel System was installed almost 6 month ago and Solar Power Nation is dragging its feet. It has come to the stage that there is now no communication as Solar Power Nation ignores the emails sent to them.
Buyers beware. It is generally a good system with generally good installers, but Solar Power Nation will not honour the warranty for replacement of defective 5 Kw Goodwe inverter. If the solar panels were to fail, I don't think they would honour the warranty for the solar panels too.or
The installation wasn’t done correctly. No proper response from the company to get the issue fixed. It has been 8 months I have been in touch with the company. But still the issue didn’t get resolved. Not at all acceptable.
or
I will not recommended then to anyone . I put deposit in October2018. They were supposed to install my solar system b4 Christmas last year . But they keep saying they don’t have this in stock they don’t have that in stock. We don’t have these panels in stock we will give u that pannel . We don’t have this inverter.
I book my system in October 2018 and now its nearly May 2019 they still haven’t install my systemAnd it goes on….
Why would you even risk it.
@brad1-8tsi: Geez, thanks for the update
How does something new fail?
Thats what i dont get
I would have thought a dodgy install just wouldn't work from the start
@Samsungnote10: Poor design, poor quality of materials or poor quality control.
The AeroSharp inverter on the first system I bought was really good for a few months then died for no apparent reason. The replacement was good for another 5 years and then it died.
if your so busy with orders and have delays of up to 6 months, and cant even return calls/emails/msgs, why are you advertising for more orders?
@wholistic: ironic, how they ignore my question about existing customers and their delays in installation and being ignored, yet continually reply to other questions posted after, with requests for quotes and sales
if your so busy with orders and have delays of up to 6 months, and cant even return calls/emails/msgs, why are you advertising for more orders?
This! Exactly what I was thinking.
The bad reviews generally aren’t about the workmanship or the gear, it’s the taking the deposit and not getting a quick install date.
I think, generally, once installs are outsourced/sub-contracted to the cheapest of cheap contractors offering to do the installs, it often ends in a bad experience for the customer.
To be fair, I'm not sure how they can avoid it easily. Certainly if they did all their own installs with a highly trained team, this would go along way to a better customer experience. But would add cost.
I know someone who experienced a dodgy water heater install (and long wait also before they even came) . It was through either aldi or Harvey Norman. But outsourced to sub contractor.
I think my friend followed it up with fair trading in the end, and got a possitive result. He was very frustrated with waiting weeks, and then when they finally came they did a dodgy job (which he picked up on, as an electrical engineer) .
Same seems to happen all they time with housing department contractors. They go for the cheapest person to do the job, and it often ends up in dodgy work done resulting in ongoing costs fixing up and maintaining the initial work because it's not done right to begin with.
An example is when public housing contractor came to 'fix' leak under sink. It wasn't until they came back about the 3rd or 4th time, that they actually fixed it. The other times, the subbies just bill for their 2-3 times, they would just throw a pile of messy looking silicon on it, then wait till it leaks again and they get more work.Finding skilled people to work at a good price, and still do a good job, is hard to find these days. Just doesn't seem to be that same pride in work, and work ethic, as much as there used to be in the 'old days' .
I got an installation done from them in May this year.
Apart from a month's delay everything else turned out pretty descent.
In winter ended up paying $60 for 2.5 months.
I went for mono longi panels with Goodwe inverter and paid 3.2K for installation on double storey house.
There was no other that could beat this price.
Felt like writing this for benefit of others.How long do u feel it would take to pay off what you’ve purchased? I’m 3/4 keen to get solar but feel like the feed in Tarif is low which isn’t good for a family that is out at work and school all day and uses little power during daylight hours
I get a feed in tariif of 15c.
With that I think should be around 2.5 years payback time.
Shop for a good energy provider who offers great feed in tariff.
I am sticking to my current provider coz of great energy pay on time discount.Thanks mate. Is it the same gear as is in this deal? Might have to pull the trigger.
@Bellpop: nope.
i think this deal is offering poly panels.
and inverter is different.
my brand was longi mono crystalline panels 315 watts per panel and goodwe inverter which comes with support for battery… inverter has two strings power line input.. helps split the panels into two groups… helpful in situations where panels have to be split across two different orientation. I am not very much into techical details but from what I read longi & goodwe looked good to me..suggest to ask them as many questions you have before you pull the plug and certainly make them provide the pros and cons of each type of equipment..
one good thing about my deal was that they took deposit of only $100 and remaining was after everything was installed and configured.. i m not sure what they do now..
The provider who offer the best rate ia origin. Just search on ozb keyword origin.
Who are you with to get the 15c feed in tarrif ?
@Archi: My GF gets 20c with AGL Solar Savers. That was their rate in Sep '18. Maybe that's changed.
We used Wattever.com.au to find the best deal for her usage pattern. It's very "solar focused"
@CyberMurning: It appears to be still available (but at a reduced 15c FIT) but not on their website. Maybe online chat or call them?
https://www.energymadeeasy.gov.au/offer/1001509/print?postco…
Origin Solar Optimer 21c FIT seems to be the best ATM if you are a high exporter. 87c supply charge. 30c kwh flat rate
https://www.energymadeeasy.gov.au/offer/934713/print?postcod…
@brad1-8tsi: yeah i just did chat and 15 is the highest. yeah once i got the solar isntalled and running we will move from agl to origin
How long do u feel it would take to pay off what you’ve purchased? I
ROI on solar only matters if you then consider how long it keeps working for many many years after that
Right. But say it pays off after two years, anything after that is gravy right. 10 years? That’s cool. Can re do then.
@Bellpop: if you look at many complaints about cheap systems, 10 years is likely optimistic
i just think getting solar and just 'binning it' after 5-10 years seems like a pretty wasteful way to go with 'renewable' energy (and a waste of the tax payer funded REC rebates)
the number of old panels and inverters that end up in landfill is pretty wasteful
@Bellpop: REC are nationwide…Vic stuff is on top of this (and a f*&$!n shambles in how it's being managed..companies using bots to auto submit applications on the first of the month due to the limited slots..monthly slots being allocated within one or 2 minutes)
Anything can happen in betweens…just like my mate who spent 9k out of pocket on LG panels and Enphase microinverters. Only a few months old and was pelted with biggish hail and a few were damaged. Good thing he didnt forget to list it on Insurance and it was covered.
@id: Agreed.
My old man shelled-out for a great system, to fill his carport & side of sloped double storey. In heavy storms, the massive gum tree nearby just "fell over" (completely uprooted), and fell on the carport.We switched everything off, cut & removed all debris… Not one bit of damage. Absolute pure luck.
If you can find a supplier that offers a decent rate. I don't know what other "investment" you could make that could potentially pay itself off in even at worst 4 years? and then after that is what? Free power?
it program dishwasher and aircon and washer drys to work in day time i know myself i program cloth was for 10am to 12 and 12 to 2 is dish time. aircon come on 20min before i get home in North Queensland. we only get 7.8 cent for my solar system it a joke some time on hot day turn aircon on for my dogs for hell off it or pop it on 2hours before come set it 22
I'm glad I got solar back in 2015. I dread to think how much my power bills would be now with two young kids! Solar is a great investment for you and the planet. Just gotta be careful with the quality you choose!
Would u go with this deal? It’s ozbargain so we love a good price but I don’t wanna be left with junk.
I'd be researching what they mean by "tier one" ET solar panel and where the inverter is from, what warranties they come with, etc. Also how do you connect them to the grid with your current power company or do you need to switch? Speak with your power company (and others), they may have a better product available.
There are hundreds if not thousands of solar companies and brands in Australia now so it's really hard to figure it all out, and research is definitely essential before biting the bullet. I backed out of a deal where their sales pitch said "European panels" which turned out to be cheap Chinese nasties (It was not Euro Solar but I hear they're worse). Gotta be really careful!
@King Steuart: Thanks mate. But who cares where they’re made. My iphone is ‘designed in California’ but made in China. I’m not being a smartass just saying does it really matter?
@Bellpop: The quality really does matter. It could be the difference between buying an iPhone and a Elephone.
@jesseboy89: Both made in China, so doesn’t really say anything about which country/continent it’s made. Anyway, agree to disagree
@Bellpop: To be clear, I still went with Chinese panels. There are great Chinese panels and there are awful ones. Do your research!
You can install the best branded panels/inverters in the market but it's the installer you need to question. Low cost deals like this tend to be installers that will cut corners during the engagement, offer no post-install support, etc. There are multiple Facebook groups where Aussies are providing input on 'crap' solar installs and people are also seeking advice from deals such as this.
Look up "Crap solar" and "Solar Q&A Aus/NZ". There's quite a lot of negative feedback about these folks from people in this group.
Hope this helps.
@daiguren: Exactly. All depends on the CEC approved installer/team the mob you buy from uses to install at your particular house. As each small team can only do 1 or 2 a day, each company uses a lot of different ones.
Sure, a cheap supplier is more likely to send you a bad installer, as is one who cares less about their brand as they plan to pheonix the company when warranty claims mount. But IMHO all you really need is one that follows the rules and does a fair job and pays attention to any special requirements you have.
Defo true that a company this size can never keep every customer happy, even amongst all the happy ones there will be sociopaths with some alterior motive to whinge online.
My mum paid 8k for quality 5Kw across one group on a tin roof. The job was done well, but not complex at all. They could have given her more for the money, but it seems they took profit instead. A year later this mob charged me 1/3 of that for 6.6Kw on 2 faces, one split across tin and tile. The installer was A1, (Yes, I did my research and am cluey enough about building, standards and engineering to know). However if I were a racist I'd possibly think otherwise (just to emphasize the point above). Both systems output about same- but how long for we'll see as my panels are PERC, and no-one really knows how long PERC tech will last in the Oz sun yet, AFAIK.
@daiguren: What are the points to look out for as a novice with no more than Google search level understanding?
Common pitfalls? Wire gauge?
No mate i would not i have friend went with euro solar she pay $4299 well i went with local company i paid $6000 my solar work had no problem after rain event in Townsville Queensland in Feb flood well her system now has rizone problem half her house flooded from roof broke titles from solar install
If you have stats, what is the total power you have generated since its installed?
14.11MWh 2018 05 04 it 5kw 6.6kw i will pm
i can sent your solar link so take personal look at my system i am in Townsville north Queensland
SAJ? ET?
Never heard of either.
Is it best to stay with known brands? What are the implications of a cheap inverter? Does it not make as much electricity?
Cheap out on panels before you cheap out on an inverter.
Can u elaborate? Which inverted should I go with?
An inverter is much easier to replace though.
Hi. Can you provide details on the specific models of panels and the inverter? There seem to be quite a few ET panels (some which get quite good reviews) but apparently some aren't stated as meeting IEC 61701 for corrosion resistance. Thanks.
I’d also like to know this.
Formal quotation will mention details.
So You can fix the price and advertise but not what’s there included in that price? M pretty sure this $2399 is for certain panel n certain inverter. If there is change in either of these, so do the price wd change.
Energy Australia quote me 20 Triva panel and inverter for $7000.. whats the difference its make?
Yeah I don't get how this is SO much cheaper than all the other retailers? Is there a catch?
Yes, there is a catch. And that is our volume, which gives us strength to get bargain as well. We simply pass on the savings to customers. We make little margins but they add up due to our volume and continuous flow of work for our isntallers.
don't go with any of retailer offer because all they do is pass on to the subcontractor to do the job and take a cut on the margin, doing this is more expensive than using a dedicated installer well known in your region, although warranty wise it's not too bad because retailers don't want to cop bad names for dodging after sale services but there'll be extra layer of communication if thing goes sour and it might take a while to sort it out.
How are these so cheap? and do they qualify for Victorian Solar Rebates?
We rely on volumes. And we don't do vic. Its an unreliable market for solar companies.
Can you please elaborate what you mean by that? I’m in Vic and currently exploring solar options, so keen to hear your views. Thanks!
Everyone is trying to get on the government solar rebate train and under the new scheme, no one will sign a contract or approve installation untill they get rebate eligible number. Solar companies and installers in Victoria are pretty upset now.
It’s always pissing down in Victoria
As nico8amy mentioned, the way the solar rebate in Victoria has been implemented means the industry has been stop start because only a certain number of people can claim a rebate each month, there hasn't been enough rebates each month to keep up with the demand so many installers have ran out of work and had to let workers go. The Vic government has just doubled the number of rebates available each month so hopefully this will smooth things out and get the industry back on track.
@donkcat: Thanks, that explains it.
If I had to forget about the rebate, would they install in Vic? Or any other recommendations for Vic anyone? I could possibly recover in 3-4 years (even without rebate), and also helps our future…
@emgee: what you can do in vic now is wait for a few more months for the demand to cool down, at the moment due to the embargo period between april-jun and monthly quota there're huge backlog demand that clogging the system, things might get a little bit better after a couple of months but over longer term the government will be likely to reduce annual quota to prevent further dent in the budget. Otherwise just engage an installer and do the roulette game every 2 weeks, probably you'll get a spot.
@emgee: People seem to be happy with sparkin energy here on ozbargain https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/474473
Keep in mind that price is before the Vic rebate, this is much better gear than the OP is offering.@emgee: We can do it in VIC, but we aren't able to offer the local govt rebate. It's not worth the headache for us and it's an unreliable govt with broken system
You can email [email protected] for a detailed quote with your choice of products. Pls mention ozbargain and mention that you want a quot for Vic and you don't care about the local govt rebate
How much would the materials alone cost them?
Not in QLD, I believe?
Available in QLD as well. Please contact us via our website. Please mention about ozbargain
Understand this guy (not the poster, the bloke on the website) is a broker of leads to the solar industry. He might have worked for the CSIRO but everyone that came from that website quoted me rubbish cheap panels/inverters and were high pressure. Daily calls until i blocked their numbers after saying no.
OP, can you install in Perth Metro?
At $1 /km, you'll be up for an extra $3,800+ each way for travel from Wetherill Park!
The travel cost will be calculated from Perth, not from Wetherill park
Yes we can.please email [email protected] for a detailed quote with your choice of products. Pls mention ozbargain
OP Can we please get the model numbers of the items used? Us ozbargainers love to be informed consumers. Thanks :)
Beside the panels and the inverter, watch out for the DC isolator https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ITfQ4S0OUhs
Is the inverter efficient enough to make the most of the solar panels?
OP if you promise to look after ozb member i Will be getting one from you.
Haha I feel like we have some power in numbers. So that’s reassuring. A little. It’s a brave new world.
Of course. Ozb probably in like the top 25 most visited website in Australia.
Prob just me refreshing 😭
Just be careful. I'm not saying they are no good, but do your homework first. Common problems people have with low end/budget solar packages is not with the actual equipment but the install. They cut corners when installing, such as not grinding tiles back properly or doing dodgy work cutting holes in your roof to run cables or just running the cables outside. The systems usually work for a while then have problems down the road. Again, it's not the hardware but the poor quality of installation and how long it lasts until repairs are needed.
Yep, nothing like saving a few bucks to let someone do a crap install job on your several hundred thousand dollar house ;)
To be fair the house I am currently in can't really get any worse aside from the walls and roof falling apart.. It might actually crumble any day now.
How much for a 6.6kW system with Solax inverter and poly panels?
Hi, please email [email protected] for a detailed quote with your choice of products. Pls mention ozbargain
I have 6kw system installed last year with Qcell and Fronius at $4.7k. Though there were heaps of cheap panels and inverter I am really happy with what I have. Today mine produced 29.24kw in Sydney.
I have a 6.6kw and 5kw Solax inverter, I get 35-37kw+ each day.. QLD tho. System cost was $4290, but got $500 back from combank effectively making it $3790. Pretty happy with that.
I've 5.2kw. 20 panels, installed by Captain Green 3.5 years ago and paid $5.5K. Highly recommend them. Few of my friends used them as well and were happy with them.
I haven't paid more than $2000 on electricity so far in 3.5 years. Currently with Origin getting 20c FIT. Today it generated 25.89kwh. so far 24.691 mwh generated by my solar.
Edit: I'm in Penrith area, NSW.That's awesome.
I had captain green install 2 years ago. And the installer was absolute rubbish. He did a good job but they took too long. Paid a deposit in December. And Didnt get fully functioning install till April.
Having said that I think I paid too much for a 4kw panels and 5kw inverter. I was $4500.
Still able to produce 19kw today in Sydney
Same with me, went with captain green 23 panels of 270W and 5kw zeversolar a year ago. I have no idea why my output is so low, only 10.9kwh today in sydney.
@ntb: That's pretty crap
I'd be getting a solar specific electrician to check it
Could be one of your strings is deadThat's about 1/3rd what a 'normal' system of that size in Sydney would have produced today (assuming no shade issues, north facing panels etc etc)
@ntb: Is north up in that?
I'm surprised you can have a string setup with such varied panel numbers in 3 directions.
@ntb: by the look of your set up, unless you have micro inverter then no wonder your output is low because most string inverter only have 2 strings and you're suppose to have every panel in one string in the same orientation (plus or minus a few degree angle). Because total output of 1 string will be throttle by the panel(s) with lowest output, e.g. if you got 10 panel on sunny day with all maxing out 3000w (300w each) , for some reason only 1 panel got covered by a neighbour tree and reduced to 100w then the whole string output will be down to 1000w. With your setup then very likely 1 string got hooked up with 2 different orientation and at anytime there'll be one side of roof producing suboptimal output because they have different angle to the sun.
@lgacb08: Thank you very much for the explanation. Does it affect the whole system output or just panels in 1 string? Because there are 12 panels facing NW so I believe they should be in 1 string, assuming they only yield 50% capacity during the day; the output should be at least 12 x 270 x 0.5 = 1.62 KWh just for that string. My system never give out more than 2.5KWh even in summer. :(
@ntb: Does your inverter not have a display or web interface to show you things like per string power or voltage/current.
Middle of a sunny day, those numbers should help show what's possibly not working/which string is the weak link (assuming it's a dual mppt inverter string setup)
But unfortunately, it's likely the only way to improve it is get the original installers back (if it was bargain basement system that may be difficult) or a decent solar elec and see what's required to get the most out of the system.
@SBOB: Unfortunately no, the display and app interface only give out total output number. I've already logged a complaint with Captain Green, lets see how things go.
Wow - that is an awesome price
I would recommend people stick clear of products without an Australian office, that way if the solar installer goes bust (like many do) then you have someone to fall back on for warranty claims. In this case ET solar don't have an Australian office and I've never heard of SAJ inverters but a quick google seems to indicate no Australian office. Also fake reviews are rife in the industry, DYOR, solar systems aren't normally comparing apples for apples and you get what you pay for.
I have ET panels and setup is ranked 99th of all global installs on PVoutput when ranked by efficiency over last 1660 days. No issues. Good panels
Wow. That’s solid feedback.
do those numbers match exactly with your power bill?
thats good efficiency (and I wouldnt think SMA were one of the inverters that somewhat 'overcount' their actual production)
you must have a pretty ideal layout (likely not achievable by most peoples location/roof layouts)Synergy Perth, 4x2, 4pax, with pool pump and solar heating in summer.
Number bit high in winter as were running heated throws and blankets most nights.
$266 59 days Jul
$182 44 days June
$168 49 days May
$102 60 days Mar
$111 62 days Nov
Stay away from these mongrels. They will take your deposit and then will forget about it. Happened to me and 2 of my friends. Don't waste your time with them.pay a little extra with someone who has real reviews on services.
Have u got some emails to show correspondence? What excuses did they use? How much time did u give them? How much was your deposit? Why didn’t u go to dept of fair trading?
Message me your e-mail address I will email it to you
Black out the personal details and upload an image?
@spaceflight: I don't think ozbargain allows image upload in comments section. I tried but I could not find an option
People need up understand how companies work.
They protect the owners from personal law suits
If I wanted to, I could create a company, take hundreds of thousands of $ in deposits for installs and then pay out my salary and then go under.
To get your money back would be such a nightmare most will right it off. Likely years in court and even then you'd only get some of it back if you were really lucky.
Id be installing only if they didn't charge a deposit or used an escrow. Definitely not giving them money
Credit card charge back/PayPal dispute?
Not once a certain period expires. Some are 120 days. So they book you in for 3 months time. At month 3 they say, we're just waiting for the inverter, will be 2 weeks. 2 weeks come around, there was a problem with the model they sent us, 2 more weeks. 2 weeks come around and you're at 120 days.
Buyer be warned.
The deposit they asked for is $50. No one getting rich and ruining their name for 50 beans…
@Bellpop: It's all in the numbers
1000 people x 50 = $50K
10000 x 50 = $500k
It's like the lock stock thing with the fake company scam. Pay cheque to a nice company name, refund from Barry's big black dildos… No one is cashing that cheque
I got my money back after 2 months of wait and constant calling. Excuses were they ran of the panels they promised me 4 weeks installation so after 4 weeks I will have to wait another 4 weeks for installation and after 4 weeks told another 2 week. That too I had to call and find out myself no one cared to tell me that things are getting delayed. Thier customer service is a joke. Deposit was only 200$ my friend's gave them 400$. I didn't got O fair trading cos I got my money back. I will look for emails. I will probably post the screenshots.
Some interesting issues in the T&Cs
https://www.solarpowernation.com.au/terms-conditions.php"Solar PV System requires servicing every two years by a licenced Solar Installer" (for warranty to be valid)
"1.5% surcharge applies to Balance Payments via CC"
"If the installation has not been completed by 31st December 2017, you will be required to pay an additional cost of up to $1,000 in excess of the quoted price" (Might want to improve the quality assurance)
"You agree to pay Solar Power Nation the STC's for the installation as part-payment for your system."
"The Solar PV System comes with up to 10 Years Installation Warranty from Solar Power Nation in conjunction with the Manufacturer's Warranty."
-note some manufacturer warranties require the panels to be sent back to the overseas factory at the consumer's expense.(Disclaimer - I don't know anything about the solar industry, but these items stood out to me)
First one is dodgy
Second seems fine, cc surcharge
Third needs updating but likely to cover any yearly supplier price increases
Fourth is standards
Fifth says 'up to', which seems interesting.
Sixth is 100 percent dodgy and why you shouldn't buy panels without local manufacturer support.I agree on most of your points except the first condition as it won't limit any statutory warranty or obligations, and it's probably just there because some lawyer thought they needed to be covered against someone making a claim when their system was covered in crap from the nearby road/or a previous dust-storm, etc. There is no way that item will ever prevent a claim, any plaintiff would already be prepared with written evidence from a CEC approved installer that the system was failing and it wasn't due to dirt and lack of maintenance.
Re the 5th condition, "is up to", as I imagine not all offers include the warranty, they may make exceptions, eg in harsh environments, such as near sea, etc.
I'm yet to see a large installer with nicer conditions
Ah.. pass then.. because of the servicing and send back overseas.
Sending overseas depends on the panel manufacturer - they list several different types.
Well, they may list several different types but you don't know what is applicable to this particular offer as the rep said you would need a quote to get that info.
Reluctance to disclose what manufacturer(s) they're using in this deal is slightly off-putting.
ACT?
Hi, please email [email protected] for a detailed quote with your choice of products. Pls mention ozbargain
The solar installation business if full of fly-by-nighters
Solar Power Nation was only registered with ASIC less than 4 years ago so not a real long track record in the business.
Remember, it is of little consolation to have 10 year to 25 year warranty on parts if the installer is long gone.
Even the 'inspection' industry that is meant to keep these fly-by-night companies in check.
The inspector signed off, and never visited when I got mine installed years back. It wasn't installed correctly, only produced 50% power, lucky the electrician came back to answer a neighbors complaint. Then a year after the system failed, they hadn't earthed the panels.
My sister had a job installed, and the breaker switch wasn't installed correctly. This too was 'inspected', and water got into the incorrectly installed switch and caught fire. Lucky a neighbor saw the sparks/fire when they were at work and called the fire brigade.
I want to know.. What are the chances for service when there is a fault when the bulk of installs rely on volume sales????
How do u know theyll be around in the next say 3 years. All it takes is a change of abn and business name. How many times have u changed business over the past years?
Yep
People should search for the company name in places like 'solar q&a aus/nz' to get an idea of their reputation, quality etc'Bill Buster specials' are popular on there ;)
Search by ABN, but even then they don't have to do much. I had to take my installer to VCAT to get them to pay for repairs that their incorrect installation had caused. Was out of pocket, and they didn't get a fine or even any other negative.
Anyone can recommend some good and reliable Victorian solar installers. Being at OZB I’d chuck in a clause for great pricing too! Thanks guys!
Origin Energy - you can be sure they will be around for 25+ years for any warranty issues.
Boils down to do want a cheapie installation or a "peace of mind" installation?I did a 5.4kw system with origin, 2 years interest free just finished last payment. Local grade 1 electrician did the install, fantastic job.
Local grade 1 electrician did the install
so.. like the lowest grade :)
Tier 1 panels? Wow these must be great!
How much to do up a van with 12v panel < 300 W, 110 Ah deep cycle battery, inverter and regulator etc. Could be a market for the summer backpacker season.
Really not that hard to DIY
Yeah. Just thinking if the price of parts extrapolates. Don't even need the labour :)
I reckon this site is worth the time to have a read if you are interested in installing solar:
SOLAR 101: A BEGINNER’S GUIDELong time reader of OzBargain… and I saw this Solar Power Nation offering.
I have recently had a SPN installation done, everything went great.
I placed my order, and due to being interstate, I requested from 'Shaun' @ SPN to arrange installation asap.To my shock I had a install date approx just two weeks after placing the order!
The entire install went without a hitch.However, as I have experience and understanding of Solar systems, I chose a different grade of equipment than the 'deal' posted on OzBargain. (I'd recommend that you do your research on Solar equipment, and chose based on the components - as I did)
Have recommended SPN to many friends as well, who have all also ordered the same custom spec'd SPN solar system.
P.S 'SPN' do use accredited 3rd party Installers/Electricians to carry out the actual install on SPN's behalf.
Whilst some might be concerned about warranties, you should know that the manufacturers will deal with you direct if in the unlikely event that you can't get warranty via SPN.
Call SPN, I dealt with 'Shaun' - tell him Ernie sent you…
Lol, either work for them or on commission
Assure you I don't work for SPN.
I fully realise that there'd be people that are very skeptical.
Guess there are rules for posting personal info, but I'd be happy to share my own 'verifiable' purchase from SPNBut I realise there are doubters, and probably nothing I can say that will change peoples minds…
You can always pay much more to other solar companies!
of all the posts in your 'long time reader' life, this is the one that made you sign up and post
what are the odds :/
Member Since 23 min 18 sec
Last Seen Online NowJust called and asked for Shaun.
"Hi. Is Shaun there?"
"Speaking."
"Ernie sent me."
"ErnieAU? Haven't heard from the legend in ages. How's he doing?"
"He seemed OK. Didn't really discuss his personal life when we spoke."
"Fair enough. So how can I help you?"
"Nah, that's all. Just running an errand he requested via OzBargain. Do you require my services as well?"
"Sorry mate, you're not making much sense. Can I actually help you with anything?"
Then I hung up, before it got awkward. Story mostly checks out though.
@justtoreply: Yeah I just assumed it was a bit like Mel B or Melanie C. A differentiator from all the other Ernies. But now that you mention it I don't know anyone outside of the Spice Girls that shortens their name like that.
Admittedly it was a little strange that he said he hadn't heard from Ernie "in ages". But when 2 people really connect I suppose a week can feel like forever. I've never really built such a connection with another human being. But I've also never had a solar system installed.
Just going on my experiences… I have purchased lots of things because of deals posted hereon OzB.
Standouts such as the SoundPeats ear phone, the recent Officeworks external hard drives, to name but a few.Fully realise that there would be doubters, but I just wanted to give OzBargainers some feedback on my own experience.
Shame that there seems to be so much negativity, rather than asking about what system / equipment I chose, and how the install went and how my order was dealt with.
:-/
Because my system was installed last week… and then this came up on OzB.
I was happy to tell OzB about my own experience.
Is that Wrong ?? I thought this was what OzB was all about…
Which inverter did u go with?
When did you order your system?
So what panels and inverter and for what price?
I had 21x Longi 315W panels and a SMA 5Kw inverter (Qld allow up to 5Kw on single phase) I chose the Longi 315W panels because Longi have been trusted to manufacture cells/panels for LG Solar at one stage.
My system was just under $3,900 installed.I figured that if Longi were trusted by LG, and based on cost of Longi's panels it was worth it to me.
The system is installed, working exactly as expected, and whilst I am waiting for the new Smart Meter to be installed, the solar system during daylight, is spinning my old meter backwards at a fair rate!
Longi have been trusted to manufacture cells/panels for LG Solar at one stage.
got any links to back up that claim?
Longi are decent panels for the price range they fit in, but not in the same league as LG
@SBOB: I think Longi simply make the ingots for a number of panel manufacturers. The manufacturers then make the ingots into a panel. Think of ingots like raw material.
That being said, Longi don't have an Australian office so if you need to make a warranty claim, you're really at the mercy of the retailer/distributor being around and willing to help. I could have got Longi but went Jinko (same price point) as they have an Australian office, have been used locally for a long time (Longi is still very new here) and came equal second in the choice panel test (lg were first)
@SBOB: https://www.lumaxsolar.com.au/are-longi-a-good-solar-panel-4…
Couldn't post earlier… OzB has limits on new members.
ErnieAU Member Since: 50 min ago
Ha, I'm not a socketpuppet … ignore the man behind the curtain …
This post is kinda like when JJB pretended to write a post as his kids. Worth a shot but you're not fooling anyone
Peanuts and monkeys
if this is in VIC. I would surely go for it. But I have 1.5KW system,Can this be installed in addition to the existing ? then I would never have to pay electricity bill I guess.
They don't do VIC 'cause it's too hard to scam the state government.
hahaha. Good one.
I'm in QLD, already have solar for the past 5+ Years but I do recall spending $8k+ getting the panels and inverter installed with my builders I ended up with LG Mono X Panels and a Samil inverter
I export my data to PV Output - https://pvoutput.org/list.jsp?id=32219
I'm wondering if I can add this system deal ontop of my current system? have two separate systems running?
same as my question..
:) Great minds think alike, I just checked what I currently have
Samil Solar River SR3K3TLA1
12x 265w LG Mono X Panels
https://imgur.com/gallery/RoHbMGR5kw per phase to export i belive.
How did you set up PV output? Was looking to do itas well, but my installer reckoned there is no way to automate it with an ABB inverter.
I use a wire tap that just rings around my input voltage and one for solar , this way you don't need a particular inverter you just install it youself a kit like this is required, https://reductionrevolution.com.au/products/efergy-engage-hu…
I got mine dirt cheap when Masters were closing $25 ! Maybe hunt around good luck!
How does this company compare vs b solar?
What is the brand of panels and are they Poly or Mono and what inverter do you get for that great price?
Do you service Hobart, Tasmania?
In Qld I can recommend "keen 2b green". These guys are not just fly by nighters and have quality service.
I just had my Aurora inverter replaced by them last week under warranty after it died 6 years after installation.
Great service and I remember at the time they were competitive on price (not the cheapest) and recommended on Whirlpool.
keen2bgreen are great, got a 6.6kw system from them in january and haven't paid for power since install. Every question I've had after installation they've been more than happy to assist with.
Do you run clothes driers? I've wondered how efficient solar would be on those rainy overcast days with near 100% humidity (when you need them most)?
You've got to be crazy to think this is a good deal. Hope your insurance is up to date
I'm in the industry and solar is not the kind of deal you want a bargain basement price on.
Getting a good deal is achieved by getting good equipment with a top notch installer
‘I’m in the industry’ no vested interest to see prices stay high here… hmm
Or, he's giving honest feedback about an industry he knows about which is filled with dodgy installers that will mess your house up.
Judging by your 48 questions you've asked here, I'd take it ozyboy knows a bit more about solar than you do.
You get what you pay for in solar
SCAM
C
A
MThe saying "Too good to be true" is especially prevalent when it comes to solar panel installs. Be prepared to get CRAP gear, and then ZERO after sale service when it fails, which it will.
You realise that there's another $4k of STCs on top of this, right? So the price difference between a $5k system and a $2.4k system is really only a 29% difference in how much money the solar providers make.
Ha, my favourite part is this post is now linked on the 'Crap Solar' Facebook page…
Some people just want to convince themselves that they "got what they paid for" on a $7K system.
Settle down man. You’re getting very excited.
You must have a low bar for what's deemed excited.
Sounds more like advertising than a proper deal to me? Pretty same deal as what I have seen at shopping center booths around. So many solar companies these days try to sign up as many as installations possible, then suddenly gone missing when they make the buck. Often their customers dead in the waters with warranty issues or some didn't even get installed. Been there, done that, what a nightmare! Not saying this company is some pop-up scam, so it does seem so when they're trying to advertise product on OzB for quick buck.
P/S for the love of god, DO NOT go for some cheap-ass inverter! Get proper, it's the heart of the system! You'll have a nightmare when you try to find these pop-up companies to change for you!
Agreed, it doesn't cost much more for quality brands like Fronius on string inverters or Solaredge if you need optimised.
@mnalam24, I have 1.5 KW Panels, paid for themsleves years ago, but the inverter died and hasn't been cost-effective to replace.
Will you guys remove the old panels?Same here. Inverter dies.
I got 2 quotations and both happy to remove the old ones for $100, 200Hi, please email [email protected] for a detailed quote with your choice of products. Pls mention ozbargain
Also mention that you would like us to remove exiting systems, we will definitely help you. We do that for many customers as they don't have enough space on the roof and have single phase
Please email us to [email protected] and we will be able to help you with that. Pls mention your requirements and mention ozbargain.
Hi. I m not sure if replied before. But yes we can help you. Please contact us
https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/483479#comment-7733761
Care to answer my question since youve replied to just about everyone else
Edit: im not expecting a reply,
And if i do get one, it wont address, or will be completely irrelevant
Calculate Solar system payback here: https://www.solarchoice.net.au/blog/solar-power-system-payba…
Read the Whirlpool Solar forum, lots of great info there: https://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum/143?g=371My last cheap solar system saw the inverter die 4 times in ten years.
I have just done an install will AHE Group. Top service and workmanship and a great price for quality products.
I have been thinking about going solar for long time but prices for a 6kW systems and online quotes were always around $6-7K so never really decided to go for it.
How come this 6.6kW system is so cheap ? $2400 ? does that include install? At this price, I am super tempted. How do I know which panels and inverter to get ?
Hi Omarko.
The price includes installation as well. If you aren't comfortable with the products in this deal you can change for little extra. Please email [email protected] with your requirements and we will be able to help you decide.
Purchased from these guys a year ago. Apart from the delay at the start product and and installer were excellent. Last 2 quarter bills were $5. In Qld and get 19c feed in Tarif with energy Australia.
How much did u pay for your system? Which panels and inverter did u get? Thanks mate
$3100 last year. I believe the rebates are better now. Same inverter and panels advertised now.
Thanks mate. Can u monitor usage via an app for free?
Thought I'd add my 2c regarding solar.
I purchased mine last year (not from the OP), and did quite a bit of research before pulling the trigger.
5 things to consider in my opinion:
Installer quality and reviews on solarquotes.com.au - the reason for this is mainly for inconvenience. You may get a cheap price but the inconvenience of things going wrong, leaks, etc might cost you more in the long term. Remember, this is typically a once in a 10 year investment, you want to make sure it can last a while.
Check pvoutput.org - what I find as a great indicator of whether you can trust your combo/setup for your area, is going to pvoutput and using their search to look at your postcode, and find others who have recently uploaded their solar data, and then check out what panels and inverter they have. You'll then get the most accurate indicator of how much you might generate based on your location and orientation.
Wifi / smart meter - I think this was the best investment for me. You can monitor everything down to when a light switches on, the amount of increased power used vs your Central heating etc.
Time lag for grid connection - once it's installed, the setup gets checked by some independent auditor. They don't actually go on your roof (I don't think) but this takes a while depending on the demand and supply of these guys. I think from installation to grid connected, it took about 2 months for me. Be conscious of this.
Get a quality inverter, as I've read that these tend to break faster than panels, so make sure that warranty from the manufacturer is 10 years.
Fyi, I've posted a few videos on my setup on YouTube (https://youtu.be/ZzS2Y7QPKXY)
I don't think inverter quality matters much as long as it has 10yrs warranty and local office as living without solar doesn't cause any inconvenience in your life and expensive model doesn't provider any better performance.
It's all made in China by Chinese company anyway, the one famous brand installers talking about German tech is a German welding equipment company sold their brand to a Chinese company. Unless you pay 150% more for Korean or 200% for American.
They mostly covers call out charge for replacement as well so your installer will be happy to replace / fix it as well under warranty.
It's also easy/relatively cheap to replace when it fails after the warranty period.
Pvoutput often requires degree of tech skill to setup so don't think it can be the source of truth either.
Came across a quote for solar I received way back in April 2010. 6300w system using 30 Sony panels and Fronius inverted
Net, fully installed price after solar credits/RECs was quoted as $39,886.12. I never proceeded!if you did do install then very likely still have premium FIT (60c) for a few more year, even assuming 5000mwh generated yearly that'd be $3000 in credit so that system probably would have paid itself off by now, if accounting for inflation. In fact most early adopter of solar on Whirlpool said they got the investment back and still raking in credit for half of the premium FIT period.
Wonder why do they need to advertise to get work if they are always overbooked.
Haha good call…
The industry is all about scale and growth. To win, you need to supply the lion's share of jobs, weed out the poor installers from your pools, have a better marketing/CX/sales/delivery/supply/logistics/admin/invoicing processes and back it up with customer retention and so on.
Well written management wordings, but still if a company that has 2 months waiting period for installation, gets more orders being ozbargained, the waiting period can increase to 3-4 months. And as a customer I will be highly disappointed with the wait time. Will end up giving negative reviews/comments about the company. If a company does not have enough resources to fulfill orders, why advertise and over book and later get kicked by the customers.
Just fyi, I went local and got a great working system all within a week.
So you order and they tell you there is a waiting period, but if it gets too long you don't just call and follow up, but you cancel and go all acid about them in public, trashing their name with nothing to gain other than retribution? This is why metrics do not work on the Internet, unless it is only machines contributing
I ordered from SNP, and they installed from go to whoa all done (and done well) in under 2 weeks
@resisting the urge: Reviews are all about a company and services it provides. If it cannot provide reliable service in due time, then the review can never be positive.
My inverter for a 1.5kw system was $2000 alone. This price for the whole kit seems too low.
your inverter must be made of gold and silver. nice rip-off
Based on this the price was about right actually
https://www.canstarblue.com.au/solar-power/fronius-solar-inv…
No rip off bro. Just a good quality inverter.
or they bought a decent quality inverter
eg a Fronius 5kw inverter is about 2k on its own
yeah but for a 1.5kw system? very mean upsell by the sales
@thekensai: they didnt say when they bought it though
not sure anyones selling 1.5kw systems these days
@SBOB: Been happy with it. There was some weird stuff early on where the voltage in the street would get high and shut it down, but they came out and increased the threshold and all good after that
If you buy an inverter standalone, you pay way more than as a package as you don't get any rebates.
Great and awesome if you are in NSW!
Any idea about the least expensive costs for a similar installation in VIC please?Ozbargain users: go on ozbargain looking for bargains
finds bargain solar
No deal, negging because too cheap 😭😳🙄
we all want bargains but we don't want to pay money and end up with no panels for 6 months!
Ozbargin pros should know when to walk away :)
I'm not saying they are good or bad. But if people are so worried about the quality of the installation then when they install, pay a third party top tier solar installer to do a full inspection upon completion and any dodgy workmanship you can raise with this installer for rectification before paying the full amount. cost would be about $290 for the full inspection by a third party. I know because I just had one done following another installer (provided with full report including pictures), which picked up poor junction box fitment and poor fitment of the 2 DC isolators, particularly cabling and risk of water ingress. 2399 + 290 is still a lot better than all the other options out there.
How do we find a top tier solar installer?
I been ozbaigan for awhile but seldom comment. This solar cheap cause on the final quote they properly write 8k job. You sign off and they profit from government rebate. My work friend have similar quote from different solar business, he didn’t go ahead cause seem doggy. Just remember back then free house insulation job (product was shit insulation). Anyway, there’s always a saying you get what you pay for!
Lol as someone who installed the insulation, how was it shit? Only some people used foil on the floor of the house, a useless endevour as dust lays on it and it gets electrified… Only some installers used crap china insulation, we used pink batts or bradfords. For skillion roofs we used aus prime-fiber celulose or rockwool blow in insulation.
So maybe dont make blanket statements when you havnt got much of a clue.
And recently used a cyclone proofing grant to replace a roof on my house, it got an extra .6 of strapping compared with a new build, the roofer was local and knew his shit. It looks a million bucks and was made very well.
Bought a system with 5.6kW solar PV system with tier 1 Risen poly Risen panels and Sungrow inverter for $3699 from Sunterra who are CEC certified retailer over 3 years ago and can say that the system has been very reliable, now arranging to get my daughter who has moved into her new house a 6.615 kw solar PV system with 21 Risen 315W MONO Half Cell Black Frame - RSM120-6-315M panels and a Growatt 1P 5kW - Growatt 5500MTL-S inverter for $2590 after rebates also from Sunterra,the panels,inverter and retailer are all Clean Energy Council Approved and the new Growatt inverters are very reliable compared to the older model, i wonder what panels and inverter solarpowernation's deal are using.
Hi Norton.
If you can email [email protected] and mention the brands you are after, we will be happy 5k quote them for you.
Pls mention ozbargain for ref
Any rebate for NSW?
How much do you save a year?
Is there some kind of recharge storage batteries to use the captured solar power at night?
If not, then you would only be saving electricity during the day?no batteries to store electricity unless you want to set up your own, at a cost 2-3 times of this quote.
Yes you need to depend on the grid when sunlight is low or noneHi Congo.
This is grid connected system. It has no battery. It will only work when there is sun. Whatever you do during the day, you will use from solar power. Extra power will go back to the grid, and you can sell that power at a rate between 6-13 cents per kw.
This is system is expected to produce upto 24kw per day depending on how much sunlight they get.You can contact us at [email protected] for more info.
Has anyone received a quote with an upgraded inverter?
Does anyone know if the railing / bracket fittings work with different panels. Eg: if the panels does after 3 years would you be able to swap the panels out with an equivalent spec but different brand etc.
Cheers.
Yep, got quote with huewe inverter. Total was $3080.
Huawei
Haha yeah I can never spell it. Apple guy here.
Anyone got advice on a good mob in Melbourne for solar that won't rip off??
any in general what a good medium teir 5.4 with future battery support system would be, inverter pannels to get etc?
Pretty much all systems can easily have a battery added later with not to much difficulty.
have recently got a quote in Syd, NSW from Energus after reviewing a few
36 X 315w Risen Half Cut Panels with Fronius inverter: 11.34kw for $7199
thoughts?
You can only grid connect 5kw per phase i belive.
That is what I had been told in the past, but now understand that without 3 phase, you can only export 5 kw\h to the grid, some sort of export clipping is applied.
Now if you purchase a 6.6kwh system, the majority of the time (except a few hours a day), would likely be exporting less than 5 kwh anyway.
Options
- Upgrade inverter (makes no financial sense, unless the system is considerably larger)
- Live with the small amount of clipping
- Drop panelsClarification: They install an export clipping device, if you're exporting more than 5kwh into the grid 10c kwh, from a 6.6kwh system, you probably shouldn't have purchased solar, in the first place. :)
@[Deactivated]: why shouldn't you have solar?
it'll be on a 10kw inverter - 3 phase.
I asked the retailer today and said over 5kw, you have to have 3-phase, and can be up to 15kw
I have been searching for solar for years, probably have over 20 quotes, but all the pricing seemed excessive for what you get, and could never make the math stack up.
Got a quote from these guys today, and they seemed really switched on. I was going for the inverter Upgrade, but settled back on their default dual string unit.My currently (faulty solar) unit was a so-called Premium Japanese model, installed way back in the day and had no end of issues, anyway thinking inverters are on the ground not too hard to replace. Removal of the old panels was a bit high, but this is an end to end quote with only $50 deposit.
They claim, single story installs are often done the same week at the moment, and for this double story job, probably next week. (Skeptical but let's see).
When I had my original system installed by Origin, it was an absolute crap fight to actually get it hooked up, they couldn't find a level 2? tech anywhere!!!When the government audited my Origin setup, numerous issues were found.
The guy up the street had his installed at the same time, and paid 6x for a premium install (Modern Solar?), lets just say I paid mine off in < 2 years, one of those grubs getting 66c feet-in tariff, and he has had no end of issues with a so called premium install.Interestingly, I have 3 phase and actually thought they had to install a 3 phase Inverter, but apparently not.
The energy supplier will replace the meter with a 3 phase meter. I don't need to worry about feeding into the phase with the most day time usage, as although I may feed all back into the grid, and then drawing all usage from another phase, the meter is smart enough to calculate my usage after deducting solar generation (even though it was fed back into the grid). Yes, complex and poorly explained by myself, but good to know.ie:
Power usage at a point in time
- Phase 1 = 0
- Phase 2 = 1
- Phase 3 = 2
solar generates 4kw into phase 1 (single phase inverter, can physically be hooked into 1 phase)
The Energy meter says (total usage 3 kw, I generated 4 kw, so I get the 10c feed in on 1kw)
I was worried, I pay for 3 kw at the 22c, while dumping 4 kw in at 10c, so was worried about making sure the solar was installed on the phase with the most usage during the day!!!Good write up. Why did u decide of the default Saj inverter? I’m sonsidering paying $600 more the the huewae inverter…
I may have not made the correct call.
- From the efficiency stats of systems deployed with these panels and Inverter seem to do their jobs okay.
- $600 is less profit
- The default unit has 10 year warranty, and yes there is a risk it won't be repaired, but that is with any unit. My last inverter cost a small fortune and when it broke, still under warranty Sharp would not repair claiming it was damaged by lightning.
I had quotes to replace and it wasn't that much, and the way they keep getting cheaper was hesitant to spend more than required.
I have been here 14 years, probably won't be here in 10 years time. Considered having solar, is just another plus. (not expecting it to sell for more)If you can afford for a better heart, go for it.
Thanks mwte Can u use any apps with the Saj inverter for real time data of power generated, sold back to grid, used by house, etc? Thanks again for the info mate
@Bellpop: I know it comes with an App for your phone, and the data is accessible over WiFi web page.
Unsure about compatibility with other apps.Reviews are always tough, but the SAJ has been in Aus for man years know, and according to some reviews has an efficiency rating of 97.71% on the 5KW – beating both the SMA and the Aurora.
I don't claim or expect it to be the BEST, but it seems good, especially for the price and functionality.
The reviews out seemed genuine.
I’m sonsidering paying $600 more the the huewae inverter…
easiest decision ever
Try and find any reviews on a Saj inverterAt least HUAWEI are a sizeable brand and get somewhat ok reviews (assuming its limitations suit your roof)
e.g. https://mcelectrical.com.au/blog/huawei-inverter-review/(I would also step up from ET panels to something with local manufacturer support)
Thanks for the feedback. Which is the cheapest panel with local support?
Maths only stacks up if the life of the system is decent. Shouldn't just be aiming for break even, but lifetime roi on the syarem
Plenty of bill buster deals don't add up on that second count.Been there tried that. My earlier so called premium system, still has working panels, but the output is too low to even bother keeping on the roof.
If your not pulling your weight financially, off you go. The tech in the solar space, just keeps on advancing.
I went with 21 x Longi panels and a 5kw SMA inverter…
My system was installed approx 2 weeks after I ordered
Longi have made for LG and others (https://www.lumaxsolar.com.au/are-longi-a-good-solar-panel-4…)I reiterate, I am not associated with SPN, and I posted on OzB because I had previously had much higher quotes from other solar companies for a very similar system.
My system (that I specified) was quite a bit more that the $2399 system though.My own experience with SPN was very good, dealing with their contractors was good as well.
How much was your setup?
My system was just under $3,900… all of the other solar companies I contacted for the exact same system were around twice the price.
I had the advantage that I knew quite a bit about solar systems and equipment, and so I actually specified what I wanted.
As I said in earlier posts, I dealt with a guy called Shaun at SPN, he understood what I wanted, and I have given his name to a number of friends in Qld and in SA.
Kind of surprising that so many people on OzB have negged my posts, without knowing nor understanding what I said.
Seems totally against OzB to jump on someone genuinely praising a company for providing what I requested - for the best price !I could provide Shaun's direct line if anyone wants to verify my story.
Seems totally against OzB to jump on
a first time posterthat would have been the basis for the negs, first time poster praising a company
objectively, thats always gonna look suss :)
@SBOB: Just a shame that the keyboard warriors don't think first, nor ask questions before being so negative…
Like I said, happy to be verified, not so happy to be vilified.
My system was just under $3,900… all of the other solar companies I contacted for the exact same system were around twice the price.
Do you think it make senses for someone to sell at half compare with others, in the industry that so competitive? If just 20% cheaper maybe okay but 50% that's a lot of money (from the seller point of view).
@CyberMurning: All I know is, I did the investigations, I contacted several companies asking for quotes and what I found was all of theme were around 50% more.
I contacted SPN, and got them to quote, and was a bit skeptical myself.
But, to my surprise they took my order I paid $150 deposit and my system was installed approx 2 weeks later.I was pleased, so I thought it made sense to make a positive comment from my perspective when I saw a posted deal for SPN on OzB.
@CyberMurning: It was fairly easy. I was aware that SPN, and many others large solar retailers, all used 3rd party contractors to do the actual installation work.
Once I knew who would be doing the installation works, and that they were indeed qualified tradies, it was just a case of comparing 'apples for apples'.
Some providers 'apples' I specified was around 50% dearer than SPN.
The final decision made perfect sense to me !
sent a request for quote to the email address supplies on 15 and haven't heard anything since. did anyone else had similar experience?
They have been really proactive with me. Lots of quotes for different setups. Check the email address?
thanks, will give it another shot
Hi paulw54jrn,
Sometimes email goes to spam. Could you please resend it send me your enquiry in the private msg?
So anyone had anything installed yet from these guys? Would love to hear their success/failure stories
I signed late last week, they phoned today, saying they have approval to proceed with the install and would like to be on-site tomorrow
Location? And what product price you getting?
Location is Kellyville.
I signed up for the standard, cheap package advertised here with SAJ Inverter and ET Panels.They did, ask if I would accept a substitution of the 275W ET Panels for 285W Canadian Solar panels due to stock availability.
I thought it was a no brainer to accept, as according to reviews the Canadian solar have a slightly higher efficiency rating.I did take the opportunity to ask, if I should uplift for a different inverter, and they said the option is there but the SAJ inverter has a 10 year warranty and will do the job fine. Any issues, they will will swap it out.
I wasn't charged extra for a tiled roof or double storey, also included the Meter Upgrade by the Energy Provider.
Sorry I should have said, it's a 2 day install. Tomorrow will be the panels, and next week will be the Inverter\Meter.@[Deactivated]: Can u tell Me about the meter upgrade? I’ve got the spinning disc meter. Is that what u have too? Is that upgraded for free by energy retail provider?
@Bellpop: I have the spinning disk meter and an old spinning gross meter.
I am told my Energy Retailer (AGL) will replace\upgrade that for free. No, I won't be forced into time of day metering.
But yes, the new meter will be a smart interval meter, and many people dislike those.@Bellpop: 3 installers, arrived today, as promised.
They inspected my roof and found 4 cracked tiles under the old panels, then walked me through the optimal setup for my roof.
Explained that one string would be smaller on a less optimal side. Ken had explained this earlier, so it wasn't a surprise.
They Explained that the inverter supports two independent feeds so one poor performing strong won't effect the other.
Sought confirmation, that I wanted to proceedThey were friendly, quite efficient and appeared competent. They replaced the broken roof times, and a few more they broke, and inspected the roof. They took all their rubbish away, and didn't make any mess.
Explained, I would expect a call to advise when the electrician will be out, with the expectation it will be Monday or Tuesday.
They left the Inverter, labeling, circuit breakers with me.
They did not ask for any more money, have only paid the $50 deposit.Interestingly, my old premium panels had green moss like barnacles, so they would have needed a clear. The old panels were larger and quite heavy. They were also much smaller capacity than I recalled 128w.
The Canadian solar panels, seem quite well manufactured and built, including the connectors.
Anyway looking forward to having the Electrician come out and finish the install. I will ask if the Electrician will also do the meter, but I assume that will be a separate visit, as they said previously AGL would change the meter.
having the Electrician come out and finish the install.
so you're saying the ones that installed the panels weren't electricians?
Did they run any connect the panels together, DC cabling, install roof top isolators?
you know, all thing things which should be legally done by a licensed electrician ;)@SBOB: Real positive vibe to your post.
What I can say, is this is just the same as my earlier premium install.
The Panels, actually just click and plug-into into each other. And yes for my earlier premium install an Electrician, to be precise LEVEL 2 came out to do any actual cabling.Yes, a premium mob may complete everything in 1 day\visit.
The Panels, actually just click and plug-into into each other.
im aware how they connect
but connecting MC4 connectors is still electrical work and is required to be done by a licensed electrician
As is running in DC cabling through a roof or wiring up a roof top isolatorbut hey, if you're happy having part of your electrical work done unlicensed
plenty of photos around of possible end results of poor RTI's or MC4 connections on the internetmany dont know what in a solar installation should be actually done by a licensed/qualified person
Wow great feedback!
In Rouse Hill, Got quote quote for $3499 with 21 x 315w Jinko Mono + Huawei inverter. let's see how it goes
Great setup, as per my post above, they installed the Panels today and so far I am quite happy with their service and communications.
The installers had plenty of time allocated to do the job and were in no way rushed.Do you have a tile roof?
did they mention anything about covering broken tiles?
I had a quote from another solar company and they said I had to have spares available in case the installers broke any..
@impoze: Yes as per above, they found 4 broken and replaced, and they broke a few more. So YES have spares.
Is that a 3 phase inverter?
nah, it's Huawei SUN2000L-5KTL.
It's a two string / two MPPT single phase inverterSpec sheet can be found here: https://support.huawei.com/enterprise/en/doc/EDOC1100011912
@paulw54jrn: I ordered the Huawei too and have two phase power. I wonder if down the track I can get the extra 5kw pumping? Is that your plan?
@Bellpop: ah k,
got quoted $3299 for 21x 315w risen panels with goodwe inverter, $3799 for a Fronius as I have 3 phase power.
@impoze: Are u dealing with Ken @SPN? I’m finding him great with getting back to me quickly. Even after deposit paid.
@Bellpop: This was via the call center.
Do you have Ken number? Can DM if you like
I haven't deposit yet,
The solarquotes reviews are quite scary lol
@impoze: At first, until you read the follow-ups. People seem to get their deposits back, and no issues with the install quality.
I think they are definitely prioritising metro installations, so if you are regional could be some delays.
I don't believe they are not a solar quotes client, so unsure how trustworthy those reviews are.
There is a lot of hate and spam posts from other sellers, so who knows. Time will tell.@[Deactivated]: thanks, yep will see how it goes.
Over the past few weeks had been dealing with another company and was $7,200 for 315w risen & 10kw Fronius 3 phase which was one of the cheaper but have been rethinking to get a smaller system and get it paid off quicker.
Just received my winter bill and did average 6kWh a day.
7,200 for 315w risen & 10kw Fronius 3 phase
this is a massively better system than the one in this deal
your lifetime ROI, with a decent FIT, would be much better and give you more flexibility in the future regarding solar usage or storage
@SBOB: SBOB I’m amazed how moritivated u are to rubbish SPN at every chance. Hard to believe you aren’t affiliated with another solar company.
@Bellpop: Im not.. dont work in the industry, not even an electrician (though have a technical background)
did enough research into my own system and whats out there to have a pretty decent understanding of how the systems work, whats involved and what corners are cut in both equipment and installations to get the costs down
not sure how saying a Risen/Fronius 10kw system is massively better than an ET/SAJ 5kw system is 'rubbishing' solarpowernation..
thats practically the understatement of the year,But anyway, 'ok google, remind me in 10 years'.. we can see how many people that took up this deal don't have any issues and whether SPN is still in business
@SBOB: Once you look at 3 phase it's a big jump in cost, but great for expansion.
24 x 315w is only 7.5kw. for over 3 times the price!! No bad feelings if you can afford that.
The other alarm bell, is the Inverter should be smaller than the panels (unless you are have room to expand in the future, and will likely expand). Inverters are cheaper all the time, so it's a risk sizing an inverter for future expansion.
And for 7.5kw, single phase is still good. 99% of the time you will be exporting under the 5kw cap.
Any lets just say for the 1hour a day you export 7.5kw (2.5kw above the cap, do you honestly believe you won't be consuming anything in the house at that time!!!) Worse case if you dump a few KW for minutes, even an hour on the ripper days, what you loose 10c?
Lets face it, if you sizing to export power, that is a bad move and will kill ROI.
If you generate more, consider a battery, but don't expect ROI.Maximum ROI is to offset your usage during solar generation hours, not all hours!!
But yes having a zero power bill does look cool.@[Deactivated]: I work from home and my wife works part time so we're home a lot during sun hours.
hoping to get solar before summer when the AC will get used a lot, it's run on 3-phase.
Do I still need a 3phase inverter or can I just go single phase?
@impoze: If your system can export more than 5kw (Inverter Size, not panels) to the Grid you need 3 phase OR an export limiter to be connected to the Grid.
If you are home during the day, you will be likely consuming what you generate, maximum ROI and be exporting very little. So could be a lot cheaper to have a limiter than 3 phase.
What I found out, and it may pay to check with your Energy Retailer, but this is what they told me.
Assume the following scenario;
Consumption:
- Phase 1 - 1 kw
- Phase 2 - 0 kw
- Phase 3 - 5 kwNow, solar should ideally be on the phase with the most day-time usage, but lets assume it was on Phase 2 and exporting 5kw
The meter is smart enough to bill as follows;
- Consumption 6kw
- Export 0 kw (despite actually exporting 5kw)
- Usage 1 kw
So I would be billed for 1kw. I actually thought in the above I would export 5kw at 10c and buy 6kw at 22c!!Don't get me wrong, 3 phase inverters are good, they are just not essential as many companies try and tell you that you need them.
Sorry just googled and found this; (a lot clearer than my ramble, but note their last sentence is misleading that anything over 5kw needs 3 phase. it's 3 phase or an export limiter)
https://solaray.com.au/ive-got-3-phase-power-but-ive-been-qu…@[Deactivated]: ah ok,
so I could stick to a single-phase inverter, unless I want to export more than 5kw which requires 3 phase
@[Deactivated]: Where do they say 24 panels?
All I see is the panel wattageOversizing panels against inverter is standard these days, so I'm assuming it's at least 10kw of panels of not over.
And every energy provider meter measures export import across all phases. it's standard, regardless of single of three phase inverter.
The reason to go three phase is due to export limitations (some providers limit to 5kw, some are 10kw per phase. Depends on your area ) on a single phase and to also reduce the likelihood of system shutdown due to high voltage.
Hey I’ve made a forum post for those of us who ordered, and those who are thinking about it, to compare notes, progress and jobs.
Link here https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/485249
Is there much difference in quality and performance of this system vs the more expensive ones? Looking at getting one installed but am not sure if the "better" packages are worth the extra money. Also @mnalam24 please reach out to me if you are able to give me this price on a payment plan
yes, different panels have different performance ratings, watts per panel, warranties etc.
It also changes if you go for the black panels compared to the silver ones.More expensive panels/inverters will have longer warranties as well.
Thanks do you know what the expected difference in $ savings would be per quarter for each of these?
Hey guys I’m thinking about solar panels. Is it best to get one with battery? We are usually out during the day. Tia
battery is still very expensive and not very cost effective.
what state are you in as there are different rebate schemes going on in different states.
Thanks we live in South Sydney so we should be ok (I did a bit of reading) would this system suit us? We use about 19 kWh a day
ah ok,
there is a battery program starting end of the year I think for NSW.
How much would you use in the daytime though? say between 6am - 6pm.
Also, what's your roof space like since that will determine the max size system you could get
@impoze: I don’t know exactly how much I use between those times. Me and kids get home around 3.30pm each day. Weekend we are here all day and that’s when I do mostly my washing.
My house is fairly big (two stories), but I am not entirely sure about the roof size. I’m attaching a photo of my roof, I’m number 16, the house at 12 has some solar panels as you can see and roof seems similar size.@fozzie: looks like your house roof is mainly split East/West but you seem to have plenty of space on your roof for a decent sized system.
It all really depends on your usage, as getting a large system just to feed into the grid isn't the best way to maximise the system. Just means longer payback period.
What about cooling/heating throughout the day?
@impoze: Thanks impoze, we do a bit of heating early in the morning (like 7 for half hour) and maybe be an hour in the evening in winter, whilst at weekend a a couple of hours during the day.
In summer we have aircon on for 2-3 hours during the day up to 6, whilst weekend for probably 5 hours a day but mostly during the day.@fozzie: if you schedule your heating/cooling throughout the day it could help offset the costs.
I've only just got the system put in so I'm curious to see how much my bill changes.
have already changed a few habits like running dishwasher in the day to utilise the solar, rather than at night,Solar Quotes has a few handy calculators to help find out what size system you could use - https://www.solarquotes.com.au/calc5/
@impoze: Thanks Impoze. I run the calculator and I should be able to recoup cost of this system in 2 years. I think I will give this a shot as it should suffice for my household needs (this system will produce more than 20kwh a day). I have a dishwasher with delayed start too, and also Aircon’s with timers so I could be running the systems to warm/cool the house during the day (within reason as I also know Of impact on the environment hence me wanting to get a solar system too)
@fozzie: I've only had my 5kw system for a week, has been producing 30-40kw a day on average. Bear in mind we're heading into summer, and has been blue skies or partially cloudy this past week
FYI my experience
After sitting on the fence re solar for a long time a solar bargain listed on Ozbargain made it affordable to me. Like any good Ozbargainer I did my research. Amongst the answers were plenty of people telling me ‘avoid them at all costs’, ‘you get what you pay for’, ‘install job will be dodgy’, ‘they haven’t been in business long’, ‘they don’t know what they are talking about’, ‘they will take your deposit and run’, install times take months’, etc.
I understand some of the the doomsdayers were genuinely trying to help, while others were so negative that it felt like they had to have other motivations outside of just trying to help me. Some of the feedback made sense, things like ‘choose products that have offices in Australia, so if you need support, and SPN goes out of business, you can still make a claim’, as far as I’m concerned, that was great advice. So I did.
The initial deal was for a Raj inverter, Et panels and install for $2,399. I decided to get an upgraded quote with a Huawei 5kw inverter and Risen 330w Panels for $3,399. To me the double benefit of brand awareness and noted quality and a local warranty presence were worth the extra.
Before jumping all in, I did what the doomsdayers said and got local quotes for the same equipment, installed with local companies. The two local installers gave me quotes of $5,999 and $6,790. Both sales people were like used car salesman. Both tried to upsell me to unnecessary systems. One tried to sell me a bigger and more expensive 10kw system, even though I have one phase (5kw) power at my house (he said, trust me I know a guy who works for Energy Australia and I’m pretty sure it will work…).
Motivated mostly by price, I decided to go with SPN. There was no pressure to upgrade, those items that I chose to upgrade to were chosen because I requested them. Once I paid my $50 deposit I was given a tentative install timeframe of 3-4 weeks. I then got an email to say it would be in two weeks. I then got a courtesy call to say there had been a cancellation and I could get it done within the week.
I took them up on this, organised the day off. The installers arrived at 9am and to my surprise were one of the local companies who had quoted me $5,999. They had been contracted by SPN to do the install. So not only was I getting the best price, but I was also getting the install don’t be people who know the local conditions and work to a high standard. It was a win/win for me and debunked a lot of what online doomsdayers were saying.
The install took about 5-6 hours. It’s very neat and tidy. They were very good to talk me through the decisions they made for placement of panels, inverter and conduit. They were extremely polite and courteous. They did note that companies like SPN make it tough for them because they sell the same products as local companies, but as a cheaper price. They also said they do like them because they provide them with install work.
I was told by many people online that the ROI for my cheaper system will be longer because my energy generation will not be as high as others. I, as a noob, thought this would surely be the case, but was happy with my system, even if it made less power, because I wouldn’t have invested more than I had into solar, and thus wouldn’t have gone ahead with a more expensive system from a local business.
Long story short, my first day of power generation netted me 39.2kw of power. From what I can see on PVOutputs, it’s the highest amount in my suburb and pretty much the highest amount you can expect to make with a 5KW system. This results was then repeated on the next day. Everything ‘just works’. The Huawei app is amazing. And, for what it’s worth I had some questions to ask the local installer, but he didn’t have the answers. So I called Hauwei, they have a free call 1800 number that is manned 24/7 by engineers. 40 second wait time on Saturday afternoon. All my questions answered from a person speaking perfect English.
So, was I nervous and feeling like I was taking a punt by going against all the online resistance to SPN, hell yes. After biting the bullet, am I glad I went with them? 100%. I’ve crunched the numbers and at this rat my ROI will be less than two years and we won’t have another power bill over that time.
I’m sure the usual suspects will try to discredit all this, but honestly, there has not been one single incident that would prevent me from recommending SPN. Great customer service and a great product.
Pics of installed inverter and panels attached, along with screenshot of power generated for one day via Huawei app.
https://ibb.co/HYpLhXc
https://ibb.co/c6PzZhh
https://ibb.co/VNpKP4g
https://ibb.co/xYjyJgqOk, you just sold me…
I was speaking to a sales consultant at spn who advised that you can't Install phase 1 system to phase 3 power which is not correct. I understand some companies prefer to connect phase 3 to phase 3, but it is definatley possible to Instal phase 1 without any issues. In fact other installers have advised it is the most common Install. I'm looking at sungrow inverter and risen panels
My system through SPN is 1 phase 5kw and I have 3 phase power
Has it been working Okay?
Why wouldn't it. Should be zero issue with a single phase inverter, as long as your under the distributors per phase export limit and there aren't any voltage issues in the area (a 3 phase inverter could assist in getting around either of those issues if they existed though)
@Bellpop: Inverter shuts down on high grid voltage as it can't export (limit set by distributor)
So if you're in an area with heaps of solar or poor infrastructure you could have cases where the line voltage exceeds the cut off and your inverter ramps down (eg bye bye solar generation)
@SBOB: Yep, been getting 30-40kwh a day
I think if you want to export over 5kwh then you need to get 3 phase inverter
@impoze: Depends on local supplier limits. some areas are 5kw per phase, some have no issues with 10, some may be less.
I've read that as well. Is there a way of knowing if there are voltage issues. I'm trying to work out if should go 1 or 3 phase connection. Difference approx $500.
Not exactly overwhelming postive reviews
https://www.solarquotes.com.au/installer-review/solar-power-…
Cheap gear/installs like this are the reason for so many bad solar stories/experiences