Solar panels: 8 x 295W panels. Inverter: 5kW Inverter. Total cost: $9,361. Electricity price: $0.32. Solar export price: $0.08.

The Williams wanted a solar power system that would optimise their return on investment, their chosen solar installation company recommended an 8 panel system to maximise their electricity savings.

The couple use an automatic timer to charge their hot water cylinder between 1pm to 4pm. They reduced their hot water element size from 3 kW to 2 kW to meet the solar generation output. “As 2 retirees we use appliances during the day when we are generating electricity.” The means appliances like the washing machine and dishwasher goes on during the day. They have focused on energy efficiency resulting in a 400w constant base load from fridge, freezer and appliances on pilot.

When asked how it feels to be a solar power system owner and they responded “it shows we are doing our bit.” They track their solar power system performance through an online app which they then downloaded to an excel spreadsheet for detailed tracking and reporting. They like to keep a close eye on their investment.