Smart choice checklist
Are you solar ready? Check out these tips to help you make the best choice for your home.Ask plenty of questions
Consider asking some of these questions:
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Choosing a system
- Are you an accredited Solar Accreditation Australia installer?
- How much experience do you have working with Horizon Power?
- Will the company quoting on supplying the solar system also be doing the installation?
- Do you subcontract work on your systems, and if so, how do you make sure your subcontractors do a good job?
- Who do I contact if something goes wrong with my equipment?
- Who will submit the application for the connection to Horizon Power?
- How long have you been in business?
- How many solar systems have you installed? How many in regional WA?
- How important is the orientation of solar panels? Does shade affect a solar PV system?
- Does the racking use both mid and end clamps to secure the panels?
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Getting a quote
- What size system will meet my household needs?
- How do I know whether the system I’m offered is a good quality solar PV system?
- How much money will I need to spend?
- How important is panel efficiency?
- What are solar panels made from and is one type better than the other? •
- Why is a particular system being recommended to me?
- Find out if a government rebate scheme applies. If you export excess energy into the network you could be eligible to sell that power back to us. Learn more about renewable energy buyback here.
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Maintenance and warranties
- How will the system be maintained?
- What racking (mounting) will be used and what is the warranty?
- Are manufacturer warranties supported locally and how are warranty claims handled?
- What happens if something goes wrong with the PV system?
- How long is the warranty period for a solar system?
- Do you provide an additional warranty on the installation, workmanship or operation of the system?
- What warranty protection is available for the solar panels, inverter and other parts?
- What are the warranty terms for each product or component (such as the inverter and panels)?
Need to knows
Before you purchase a solar or battery system, you need to apply for approval to connect to the network.
Here's what you need to know about the application process:
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Speak with your installer about fees and charges
There are no fees to apply to connect your solar system to our network.
For systems greater than 5kW, there are times that we need to carry out further technical assessments to ensure connecting your system won't impact the stability of the network. There are fees associated with these assessments, and you should discuss these fees with your installer.
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Apply for a Building Permit
You need a building permit for solar installations, unless exempt. So, check with your local Shire to ensure you meet all regulations before installing your rooftop solar system.
Your solar installer can often assist with the Building Permit application process. If your installer is handling this on your behalf, please request a copy for your own records.
If you're unsure who to contact, this online Local Government Directory may help. -
In some cases, it will take longer than 10 days to process your application
After we receive your application, we'll undertake an assessment to make sure it meets our technical requirements. In most cases, this will take 10 business days.
For systems larger than 5kW, further technical assessments may be required and can take up to an additional 30-90 days, depending on the system size and location.
We may require additional information throughout this time, and we'll keep you and your installer informed along the way. It's a good idea to discuss this process with your installer so you know what to expect upfront.
We're also here to answer any questions you may have. Call us between 8 am - 5 pm weekdays on 1800 267 926.
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After receiving approval, you have three months to install your system
Once you receive written approval from us to connect your system to our network, you can go ahead with installing your solar system.
It's important that your system is installed, and we receive the necessary preliminary and completion notice from your contractor, within three months of your application being approved. Otherwise, your approval to connect will lapse and you must reapply.
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If you're making changes to an existing system, we need to know
If you already have solar installed, there are times you may need to make changes. This could include replacing faulty or aged equipment, or increasing the size of your system to better suit your energy needs.
If this is the case, it's important to let us know, so we can ensure these changes meet our technical requirements to connect to the network. You'll need to submit an application form for assessement and we recommend discussing this with your contractor.
If you have moved into a home that already has solar installed, you may be eligible for a buyback offer. Please call us on 1800 267 926 to discuss your eligibility and the buyback rates available.
Buyer beware
Your solar retailer or installer should provide you with detailed documentation with written quotes, warranty terms, and details of installed components. Always make sure you understand what you’re agreeing to before you sign or pay anything.
We will never ask you for a deposit to ‘secure your place’ on a solar application list. If your solar retailer or installer asks for a ‘holding deposit’, this is not a request from Horizon Power.
Horizon Power acknowledges the Traditional Custodians throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders past, present and emerging.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this website may contain images, names or voices of deceased people.