Best off-grid solar systems
Learn about the different off-grid solar systems available and what is required to build a quality and reliable off-grid system. We also highlight the best off-grid inverters and battery storage systems for home use to provide power under all operating conditions and situations.
Solar Panel Shading Problems & Solutions
Shading on solar panels often results in a significant decline in performance. Bypass diodes are used to mitigate the effects of shading, but their failure can exacerbate the issue, leading to potential damage to the solar panels. In this article, we'll delve into the challenges posed by solar panel shading and associated issues with failing bypass diodes. Plus, we offer solutions to help reduce the effects of shading and provide a troubleshooting guide to test whether diodes have failed.
Sunpower Review 2024
SunPower is regarded as a world-leading solar panel producer with only a few manufacturers competing at the same level of performance and quality. SunPower also leads in efficiency, but is the extra cost worth it? We examine the SunPower range of panels and the new SunVault and Reserse battery systems.
Goodwe Inverter & battery review
Goodwe manufactures a huge range of solar and hybrid inverters for a vast range of applications. Is this review, we examine the full range and highlight the most popular models. Plus, we review the new range of batteries which featuer some great new innovations.
V2G Explained - Benefits of Vehicle-to-grid Technology
Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) is an emerging technology that allows an EV to help stabilise the grid using a specialised bidirectional charger. We explain how vehicle-to-grid technology works and highlight the many benefits V2G will offer in an increasingly decentralised and renewable powered energy system.
Top 7 solar myths debunked
There is a vast amount of misinformation about problems with solar panels, claims about solar panels being toxic, unreliable or not helping reduce emissions. Much of this information originated 10 to 15 years ago when solar was relatively new technology and very expensive. However, things have changed dramatically since then so it’s time to set the record straight.
Enphase Microinverter and Battery Review
Microinverters have many benefits over string inverters but also a higher upfront cost. This review examines whether it is worth paying extra and what you need to know when considering a microinverter system. We also look inside the unique new generation IQ8 series microinverters and batteries from Enphase.
Pylontech Battery Review
Pylontech is one of the largest battery providers for residential off-grid and solar applications. We examine the popular US Series batteries which are widely known as some of the best value-for-money rack-mount lithium batteries available. Are they reliable, and what issues might you come across?
Fronius Inverter Review
Austrian solar inverter manufacturer Fronius is considered a leader in the solar world, but it wasn’t always the case. Over the years, this reputation has been earned from the high level of service, quality and, most importantly, reliability. We examine what makes Fronius inverters stand out from the crowd.
Latest Solar Panel Technology
We examine the latest solar panels and explain how advanced PV cell technologies help improve performance and efficiency, plus we highlight the most advanced panels from the leading manufacturers. Learn about recent innovations such as micro busbars, high-density heterojunction and TOPCon N-type cells.
SolarEdge Review
SolarEdge do not manufacture conventional string inverters but what the company calls ‘intelligent inverter systems’ using power optimisers to maximise power at the individual panel level. We examine this technology and determine if it is worth the extra cost and complexity.
Guide to home batteries and off-grid solar in Australia
The comprehensive guide to solar battery and off-grid systems. How to select and size a home solar battery system and how much it may cost you. Also, alternatives to adding batteries and how energy efficiency can save you more than adding a battery.
Solar System Reliability
Reliability must be a strength of your solar system. It signifies the assurance that your system operates seamlessly, demands minimal maintenance, harbours a low probability of malfunctions, and the system can be returned online quickly in case of a breakdown.
Tesla Powerwall and Inverter Review
We review the Tesla Powerwall 2, Powerwall Plus and Powerwall 3 battery systems and the unique liquid-cooled Tesla solar inverter. With 13.5kWh storage capacity, instantaneous backup and off-grid capability, the Powerwall is one of the leading home batteries on the market. We examine how it works, the warranty, performance and estimate how long it will last.
Solar system fault finding guide & solutions
A guide to the most common solar panel faults and problems and how to determine if your solar system is performing as it should. Plus the 5 basic steps to fault finding a solar system and how to check solar panel string voltages using an app or inverter display.