The latest data from Australia’s Clean Energy Regulator (CER) shows Australia now has more than 2.58 million small scale solar power systems installed, representing 5GW+ of generating capacity.
7,599 small-scale systems were installed across the country in August, representing a total generation capacity of 33,898kW.
In terms of numbers of systems, Queensland led the way with 2,208 installations; followed by Western Australia (1,642) and New South Wales (1,574). The three states were also the leaders in their respective positions in the total capacity stakes.
The Regulator states solar installation rates were significantly higher during August compared to July – 7,599 vs 5,841.
Overall tallies show Queensland remains Australia’s solar stronghold, with 448,447 systems installed, well ahead of New South Wales’ total of 342,998 installations.
The Regulator notes 365 small commercial-scale solar PV systems (10–100kW) were installed across Australia last month; with Queensland again the leader in this category.
Battery storage also gets a mention in the latest “Cracking The Small-Scale Code – August 2016” report. 51 solar panel systems had a concurrent battery storage installation in August, bringing the total to 1,670. Battery retrofit information isn’t available as energy storage installed in a retrofit scenario doesn’t attract certificates; which is what the Regulator bases its statistics on.
The Clean Energy Regulator notes that given the 12-month period for creating small-scale technology certificates, monthly installation figures will continue to increase. Small-scale technology certificates (STC’s) form the basis of the major subsidy available in Australia supporting the purchase of solar power systems.
The uptake of house solar panels in Australia is nothing short of phenomenal – our small-scale system tally is higher than the USA, which is yet to hit the 2 million mark.
According to Energy Matters, a good quality and professionally installed 5.2kW solar energy system can provide a financial benefit of up to $3,000 a year; depending on installation scenario and electricity consumption profile.
Taking into account larger (100kw+) commercial solar and utility scale projects, Australia reached the 5GW capacity milestone earlier this year according to solar consultancy firm, SunWiz.
