What are Small Technology Certificates (STC'S)?

When a home or business installs a solar power system, the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions is calculated using a formula established by the scheme regulator.

The calculation is based on a few key factors. Australia is divided into four solar zones, with every postcode assigned to a zone according to the average amount of solar energy it receives.

  • Zone 1 includes the sunniest regions of Australia.
  • Zone 4 includes areas that receive the least solar radiation.

For example, the number of Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) for a 5kW solar system installed in Zone 3 is calculated using the following formula:

STCs = System Size × Deeming Period × Zone Rating

STCs = 5kW × 9 years × 1.382 = 62.19

The total number of STCs is always rounded down to the nearest whole certificate. Based on this example, the final allocation is 62 STCs.

To help reduce the upfront cost of installation, Nexa Solar offers customers a point-of-sale discount when they choose to assign their STCs to the company.

Large-scale Generation Certificates (LGCs)

Large-scale Generation Certificates (LGCs) apply to renewable energy systems with a capacity greater than 100kW.

Unlike STCs, LGCs are based on the actual electricity generated by the system. A dedicated electricity meter records the total energy output, and the measured generation is periodically converted into LGCs.

Trading STCs and LGCs

The Australian Government administers the creation and trading of both STCs and LGCs through the REC Registry.

The REC Registry is an online platform that supports the Renewable Energy Target (RET) by enabling certificate creation, transfer, trading, and surrender. This system ensures renewable energy certificates are accurately tracked and managed throughout their lifecycle.

What are the components of a solar power system and how do they work?

A typical solar power system consists of three essential components that work together to generate clean, renewable electricity.

Solar Panels

Solar panels are made up of multiple photovoltaic (PV) cells connected together. When sunlight reaches these cells, the light particles (photons) are absorbed, triggering the photovoltaic effect. This process releases electrons within the cells, creating a flow of electrical current.

The electricity produced by the solar panels is direct current (DC) electricity.

Inverter

Since most homes and businesses operate on alternating current (AC) electricity, the DC power generated by the solar panels must be converted before it can be used. This conversion is performed by the inverter.

Once converted, the AC electricity can power household appliances, business equipment, or be exported to the electricity grid.

Mounting System

The mounting system provides the structural support that secures the solar panels in place. Typically manufactured from durable steel or aluminium, these systems are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including strong winds, heavy rain, frost, and other environmental loads while keeping the solar array safely positioned for optimal performance.

Is a warranty provided?

Yes. A solar power system typically includes four different types of warranties, each covering a specific component of the installation.

Solar Panels

  • 25-year performance warranty

  • 15-year product warranty

The performance warranty guarantees that the panels will continue to produce electricity at an expected level over time, while the product warranty covers manufacturing defects.

Inverter

  • 10-year manufacturer’s warranty

The inverter warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal operating conditions.

Solar Mounting System

  • 10-year limited product warranty

  • 5-year after-sales service warranty

The mounting system is covered against manufacturing defects, with additional after-sales support provided for the specified period.

Workmanship

  • 5-year workmanship warranty

This warranty covers the quality of the installation work carried out by Nexa Solar, ensuring the system has been installed to industry standards.

In the unlikely event that you need to make a warranty claim, simply contact Nexa Solar. Our team will assist you with the entire process, including warranty lodgements, product replacements, and any required repairs.

What should I do if my solar PV system stops working?

Many inverter faults can be resolved quickly by performing a simple system reboot. Before restarting your system, follow the shutdown procedure outlined below. You can also find these instructions on the front of most inverters.

Shutdown Procedure

Step 1: Turn off the Main Switch (Inverter Supply) and the Inverter AC Isolator. These switches are typically located in your electrical switchboard and/or next to the inverter.

Step 2: Turn off the PV Array DC Isolator(s) located beside or underneath the inverter. Some systems may have more than one DC isolator, so ensure they are all switched off.

Start-Up Procedure

To restart the system, simply follow the shutdown steps in reverse order:

  1. Turn on the PV Array DC Isolator(s).

  2. Turn on the Inverter AC Isolator and the Main Switch (Inverter Supply).

Allow a few minutes for the inverter to complete its startup sequence and reconnect to the system.

If the issue continues after restarting the inverter, please contact Nexa Solar for further assistance. Our team will be happy to help diagnose the problem and arrange any necessary support.

How much will I save?

Installing a solar power system is one of the most effective ways to reduce your electricity costs, especially in Australia’s sunny climate. The amount you can save depends on several factors unique to your home or business.

Key factors that influence your solar savings include:

  • Your average electricity consumption – The more energy you use, the greater the potential savings.

  • Your energy usage patterns – Using electricity during daylight hours allows you to maximise the power generated by your solar system.

  • Your feed-in tariff – Any excess electricity exported to the grid may earn you credits on your electricity bill, depending on your retailer’s feed-in tariff.

  • The size of your solar system – Larger systems can generate more electricity, increasing your potential savings when correctly matched to your energy needs.

  • Your location – The amount of sunlight your property receives throughout the year affects how much electricity your system can produce.

At Nexa Solar, we’ll assess your energy usage and design a customised solar solution to help you maximise your savings. Contact our team today for a personalised solar savings estimate tailored to your property.

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