THE PROS & CONS OF SOLAR PANELS

They're pricey to install but can save you cash in the long run, so consider this expert advice on at-home solar energy systems

- Trudie McConnochie

Does the figure showing on your quarterly power bill make you feel queasy? You're probably investigating cash-saving options, including whether it's a good idea to get solar panels installed on your roof.

Solar energy systems are becoming increasingly popular among Aussie homeowners as a way to cut expenses and reduce their carbon footprint.

“Every one kilowatt hour of solar that is used by the house from your solar panels is offsetting almost two-thirds of a kilogram carbon emissions," says Chris Williams, CEO and founder of Natural Solar. “So it's a very significant carbon reduction."

While yielding power from the sun can reduce your power bills - and increase the value of your home, says Chris - there are some high set-up costs involved. Here's what you need to consider.

BATTERY VS PANELS ONLY

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems work by converting energy from sunlight into DC (direct current) electricity via solar panels on your roof, which is then changed by an inverter unit into AC (alternating current) electricity for your home's power circuits. You can only use that energy as it's produced. But if you also install a battery, you can store excess power for use later, in the evenings and low-sunlight days.