Solar lighting first base to saving energy
In my quest to producing a DVD for owner builders I have conducted research into as many products and materials as possible thus far.
My primary aim is to maximize the utilization of a high energy star rating but its not all that easy to implement, due to the masking support from key stake holders.
Let me try to explain my dilemma, on the one hand I think all owners builders should factor in the additional cost to achieve the highest possible rating, but the incentive is not strong enough for people to consider the increased costs.
The cosmetics of achieving a high star rating is somewhat primitive, therefore the potential to build such a home is along way from the target reality.
The other hand we have different rebates in different states of Australia so this is another negative attribute to achieving a high energy star rating.
I believe there is prominent need to encourage builders to consider green status homes right now but when Australian decide to invest in items such as solar panels they may not understand what the energy companies offer for energy to the grid.
To me the green energy and sustainability package is a string pulled in many directions. The marketing maybe seen as a passive deception towards most people not understanding the calculation of energy consumption Vs energy collected from a 1.5Kw system sold back to the grid.
Let me say here that anyone that has decided to invest in solar energy has made the right decision, but the power companies and or the Australian federal government need to regulate and focus the rebate and well as the long-term grid rate paid.
This is an example the Grid payment system in 2009
Victoria, Rate paid 60c/KWh
SA, 44c +
ACT, 45.7 +
TAS, 20c
NT, 45.76 c/kWh. Capped at $5 per day, then reverts to 23.11c per kWh
WA, 40c/kWh
QLD, 44c+
NSW, 60c/kWh
Source via
http://www.energymatters.com.au/government-rebates/feedintariff.php#fit-table
The first step if nothing else is to consider the most efficient lighting possible without compromising ceiling and wall insulation.
The first step if nothing else is to consider the most efficient lighting possible without compromising ceiling and wall insulation.
By Darren Gow-Brown
