head shot ben about page

Ben McInerney

Review Board Member
|
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

Solar payback period

If you’re residing in Australia, it’s likely you’re considering or intending to become part of the massive group of homes opting for solar panels for their electricity needs. A crucial piece of information that we’re going to delve into today revolves around the solar payback period. The average payback period for solar in Australia is …

Solar rebate end date inforgraphic

In 2011, a scheme offering rebates for solar was introduced to encourage Aussies to tap into solar energy. The government solar rebate is set to end on 31st December 2030. The Australian government decided that rather than stopping the rebate immediately, it was a better idea to phase it out gradually. The government decided that …

money-saved-with-solar-category-image

Putting solar panels on your rooftop isn’t just about getting them up there; it’s crucial to keep them in top nick and sort out any repairs1 that might crop up. This upkeep is essential to make sure your solar setup keeps ticking over smoothly. They don’t need a lot of looking after, but giving your …

Best solar inverters 2020

There are a few inverters we feel are the best of the best in 2020 for Price, efficiency and flexibility. You can jump down and see who the winners are, but I urge you to first read a few essential things about inverters to have a better understanding to help you choose which is best …

What is a hybrid solar system?

There are a few different types of solar panel systems such as grid-tied, off-grid, and hybrid. Basically, the difference between them is the amount of reliance on the grid as a backup source of power. A hybrid solar system combines the best features of grid-tied and off-grid systems. They integrate a solar battery for storage …

best-solar-panels-on-the-market-image

The solar market is full of companies offering a wide array of solar panels of every type, quality and watt output, but which are best? With so many options, selecting the right solar panels for you and your home is getting harder by the day. To get the best solar panels, you have to consider …

time-of-day-vs-power-output

Understanding when is the best time to use solar electricity, and how to make the most out of your solar panel system, is important if you want to lower your electricity bill and reduce the carbon footprint of your household. Solar panels are most efficient when the sun hits them directly instead of at an …

what-a-3kW-solar-system-runs

A 3kW solar panel system can run most appliances found in a small home with 2 – 3 occupants. It can produce up to 2500kWh per year which should be enough to run all the typical appliances you would find in 1 bath, 2 bedroom home. There are 3 ways to work out if a …

how-many-solar-panels-category-image

The amount of solar panels required to run your house hinges on your energy needs. The most common/ popular setup is a 5kW solar system. They require 16 panels to be placed on a north-facing roof. Below are some insights into choosing the right system for your needs by answering some of the common doubts …