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Ben McInerney

Review Board Member
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CEO, Researcher, Editor
Expertise: Solar PV Research, Arboriculture, Content Wizard
Education: TAFE NSW

BACKGROUND

Ben is a renewable energy enthusiast and developed a passion for solar while helping his brother Leigh install solar panels on the Central Coast. With an environmental science-based background, transitioning into renewable energy was seamless. Ben has helped thousands of Australians understand roof-top solar and enabled them to make the best choice before their purchase.

Latest by Ben McInerney

4 kW solar system price

Ideal for compact to mid-sized residences, a 4kW setup can sufficiently power a range of household appliances including a washing machine, dishwasher, fridge, television, lights, and additional items. With the potential for significant savings and government rebates, it’s time to take a closer look at what a 4 kW solar system entails and the 4 …

How To Run a Fridge on Solar Power

In today’s world, where sustainability and energy efficiency are paramount, harnessing solar power to run appliances like fridges is gaining popularity. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint or seeking off-grid solutions, solar-powered refrigeration offers a reliable and eco-friendly alternative. Fridges need a steady supply of electricity to maintain the freshness of food. On …

What is a photovoltaic effect

The photovoltaic process is basically how the absorbed sunlight converts into electricity. The photovoltaic effect is the process that involves two dissimilar materials coming into contact to produce voltage or electricity when exposed to light or radiant energy. This effect is what ables solar panels to be useful because the photovoltaic cell inside the panel …

Most Solar Energy Installed in Australia by State

Australia is one of the countries in the western world encouraging their citizens to move from fossil fuels to more green options like solar energy. The solar energy industry in Australia is one of the fastest-growing sectors, with over 3.2 million solar energy installations and a combined output of 27,000 MW (27 GW) all over …

solar bonus scheme qld 44c feed in fariff

Kicked off in 2008, Queensland’s solar bonus scheme offered a 44-cent feed-in tariff (FiT) for every kilowatt-hour of excess electricity returned to the grid. This 44c FiT deal wrapped up in July 2012 and was followed by the regional FiT. The regional FiT is set by the Queensland Competition Authority each year and is paid …

Can I Claim The Solar Rebate Twice in QLD

Absolutely, you’re qualified to apply for solar rebates in Queensland not just once, but twice. The eligibility for these rebates is determined by the property’s location, not who is applying. Essentially, if you own several properties, you’re allowed to claim the solar system rebate for each and every house you own. What if I want …

STC zone map QLD Australia

As evident from the map overlay provided below, Queensland encompasses STC zones 1, 2, and 3, which vary according to your residential location within the state. Most of the Queensland land mass is in Zone 1, but most of the population lives in Zone 3, which covers Brisbane, Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. There …

Solar Panel System Cost in QLD

The cost of solar is on the rise in Queensland due to the reduction in the solar rebate each year. Because electricity prices are also rising, the ROI of solar is even more attractive. In Queensland, an average 6.6 kW solar system will cost  $6,978 while a 10kw solar system costs $9,571 after any rebates …

Can I Get Free Solar Panels in Victoria

Putting in solar panels can often be quite expensive, putting it beyond the budget for many households. However, in Victoria, there are a few programs on offer designed to reduce the initial costs involved in getting solar panels installed. While there are no free solar panels in Victoria, there are initiatives that will help you …