While the news around the country turns to the upcoming Federal election, one thing is for certain. Renewable energy, climate change and the phasing out of fossil fuels will once again be a hot topic. However, often significant milestones get lost in all the political wrangling, such as Australia’s recent solar energy achievement.

According to the Australian PV Institute (APVI), Australia has recently clicked over the mark of 25GW of installed solar capacity throughout the country. In fact, by the start of 2022, Australia’s capacity stands at 26.9GW.

A record-breaking year

The total solar capacity in Australia wasn’t the only record to fall in 2021. Firstly, there was 5.26GW of solar PV installed throughout Australia over the course of the year. This was boosted by a record year for rooftop solar on homes and businesses, which saw 3.24GW installed, which was a new annual record. The rest was made up of large-scale solar infrastructure projects.

On that note, utility-scale solar recorded generation of 1,263GWh in the month of December, which was the first time Australia has seen levels over 1,000GWh.

Why the increase?

Firstly, Australia has seen considerable decreases in gas-generated electricity, which has slumped to its lowest levels in 15 years. Renewable energy accounted for over 31% of Australia’s electricity needs in 2021. But perhaps the biggest driver was the continued uptake of rooftop solar installations on residential homes and businesses around the country.

Installing solar saves households money, but it also helps them contribute to slashing emissions. It’s a feelgood benefit, but also a financial one. Coupled with government incentives making it cheaper to install solar panels, it makes sense that so many Aussies are now opting to go solar.

How much can people save with solar energy?

Choosing to go solar at your home can save you thousands of dollars. There is, of course, an upfront cost to install your solar system, but the savings you make result in the system being paid off in 2-3 years. After that, the savings are all yours.

The Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme also gives homeowners a reduction in the upfront cost, which is why solar is so appealing. If you want to find out how much your family could save, contact Ahlec Solar today and we’ll be happy to help. Our free, no-obligation assessments will tell you how much you could expect to save. Solar has never been easier!

Source URL: https://ahlecsolar.com.au/2022/03/25/australia-reaches-new-solar-milestone/