Mondiaux Solar, one of Canberra's most recommended solar panel installers. Photo: Mondiaux Solar.
If you are a business or commercial property owner, you will know all too well about keeping costs low. Reducing overheads or running costs, are a simple and effective means to instantly improve the bottom line.
Easy as it sounds, achieving an overhead reduction without compromising on space or essential services is quite challenging indeed. In an era of skyrocketing electricity prices many business owners are seeking alternative means to find a solution.
Fortunately, the demand for renewable energy – along with government intervention, have helped to make commercial scale solar more affordable. This, along with the myriad of benefits also make solar harvesting an attractive long-term option.
Solar systems effectively save on energy costs by generating electricity at a lower cost than purchasing on the grid. With solar panels bearing a serviceable lifetime that spans decades, what results are significant cost reductions over time. The economic benefits however do not end there. Solar systems can also generate revenue by on-selling power to tenants or electricity retailers.
The environmental benefits are also rather attractive. Solar systems deliver reduced emissions and in doing so improve a buildings overall energy efficiency and environmental rating. This alone has enormous benefits to commercial property owners, making it easier to attract tenants on sustainability merit.
Great! I hear you say, that is exactly why I am here! But how do I take the next step and find a solar installer that is worth the cost of investment? I am glad you asked. We appreciate that this may feel like a mammoth task. The good news is that Canberra is home to some world-class commercial solar installers, and we have listed the best of the bunch below. Read on to find out more.
What makes a great commercial solar installer?
Great solar panel installers look good on paper, but the best deliver tailor made solar solutions that allow you to reap the benefits for decades. Here are our suggestions on what to look out for when assessing your solar installers:
- Highly experienced. Not all solar systems are created equally. Commercial solar systems often deal with larger panels, and more of them, all served by complex infrastructure. So, when it comes to finding an installer for your commercial grade set up, seek one with specific expertise in this area. Look for at least five years experience, great customer reviews, and any personal recommendations. Positive feedback around pre and post installation works, service levels, and issue resolution will all help to provide some assurance on their expertise.
- Appropriately licensed. When it comes to licensing for solar work within the ACT, both retailers and installers must hold a government issued electrical license. Prerequisites for licensing include specific electrical qualifications and eligibility criteria; with licenses issued under several classes. This is particularly important as only a licensed electrician can provide a certificate of compliance covering the system and electrical work. To check on the validity of your installers license visit Access Canberra’s list of licensed electricians.
- Industry accredited. The solar industry in Australia is heavily accredited by the peak industry body, Clean Energy Council. Funded by members, the council issues accreditations for installers, along with categories of accreditation from design-only, install-only, to design and install. In addition to design and installation, the council also maintains a register of approved panels and inverters that meet Australian standards. Moreover, they run a voluntary approval program for solar retailers.
- Comprehensively insured. As with all professional trades, and particularly those conducting business at a height, always vet for appropriate insurances. For solar installers look for appropriate levels of cover for public liability insurance, workers compensation insurance, and contractor’s insurance. For commercial scale systems be sure to cite all insurance certificates.
- Clear contracts. Great installers will offer the utmost transparency with regards to their contracts. Look for installers who provide itemised quotes, including all parts and components itemised by brand and product number, along with labour. The quote should also include as assessment of the systems performance, and the system design. Additionally, timelines for installation, payment terms, any exclusions or extras should be provided in writing. As for warranties, look for coverage on both products and installation, along with the standard performance warranty on panels. Always clarify post installation maintenance along with the resolutions process for any warranty claims.
Important essentials to check before engaging a solar installer
To ensure quality and professionalism a couple of minutes spent checking the following will help to give you peace of mind; and ensure you avoid a mediocre installer.
- Confirm the provider runs a registered business through the Australian Business Registration website.
- Ensure the provider holds an appropriate electrical license by checking the Access Canberra list of licensed electricians.
- Check that designers and installers are appropriately accredited by the peak industry body, the Clean Energy Council.
- Ensure all panels and inverters are approved by the Clean Energy Council.
- Verify the providers public liability insurance and level of cover.
- Be clear on contracted inclusions, terms, and conditions.
The best commercial solar installers in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Mondiaux Solar
Based in Canberra, Mondiaux Solar is a leading renewable energy retailer, specialising in the design, installation and maintenance of solar energy systems, solar battery systems and EV charging solutions tailored for commercial clients. Being the Number 1 Solar Business combined in the ACT and among the Top 100 Solar Businesses by volume in Australia signifies their dedication to quality, customer satisfaction, and industry leadership.
With a 10-year workmanship warranty, Mondiaux's commitment to quality is hard to beat. Their consultative approach forges a deep understanding of commercial scale energy requirements and usage patterns to inform system design and development.
The team appreciates return expected from commercial investments and works closely to ensure each system is designed to maximise the benefits of solar energy, whilst reducing long term operational costs.
Experienced installers execute their work with utmost efficiency to minimize disruption to daily operations. Care extends to well beyond installation - Mondiaux also conveniently offers solar cleaning and maintenance services, all under one roof.
Mondiaux's credentials extend to the government sector, as an approved government procurement contractor for renewable energy. They partner with leading solar system suppliers to ensure that all installations feature the highest quality solar photovoltaic panels, solar inverters, and mounting components.
Mondiaux Solar also proudly supports the Canberra community, donating a portion of all sales to the RSPCA since 2021.
Sam Furler shared this glowing feedback on Mondiaux Solar on Google, “Very happy. Great customer service, competitive pricing and installation was seamless and on time. Highly recommended.”
Huglo Solar
For commercial solar projects in Canberra, clients need a local company that knows the region's needs inside and out. Huglo Solar, known as Canberra's 'energy mate', is a full service solar provider based in Mitchell, ACT, is just that.
Huglo knows which commercial incentives are available for certain projects, what Canberran businesses need to properly supply their power, and how to install the best commercial solar panel and battery systems for the region's varied climate.
The team of 15 is led by Tim, Lee and Justin, who together bring decades of combined experience in renewable energy, having also advised top 100 ASX companies on wind and solar renewables investment. They proudly provide balanced advice to help reduce ongoing energy costs and improve energy independence.
Every Huglo Solar technician holds a current Clean Energy Council (CEC) certification. They aren't just installers, they're true energy consultants with expert knowledge in a range of commercial solar and battery systems.
Providing custom systems that are designed to cater for commercial power requirements, Huglo also covers electric vehicle chargers, hot water heat pumps and split air conditioning systems.
The team even built their own independent comparison app, which helps Canberrans track down the best value plan for their electricity consumption and works towards a 'fair energy market' for Aussie home and business owners.
"From start to finish, Huglo is a class act," Simon Scarlet says online.
"The team gave us the information, technical advice and support we needed through the entire process. Each team member we interacted with was friendly, knowledgeable and easy to talk to."
SolarHub
Since first entering the market eight years ago, SolarHub have grown to become one of the capitals leading solar retailers combining cutting-edge technology with impeccable customer service.
With over 8,000 systems installed, they believe in helping businesses optimise their power providing measurable economic impacts that reduce running costs and improve the bottom line.
As a Clean Energy Council approved retailer using approved products and installers you are in safe hands for your next commercial grade solar system.
Martin Scott had this to say about SolarHub on Google, “Easy to talk to about which solar panel setup would suit our future needs. Very patient with our questions and no pressure. Professional installation and kept us informed of the whole install process.”
EPC Solar
At the forefront of some of the most innovative solar energy technology, EPC Solar design and deliver turnkey renewable systems. Founded in Canberra five years ago, they now offer nation-wide servicing for commercial and industrial clients around Australia.
Whether your commercial needs span solar installation, solar carparks, solar farms, or microgrids, EPC Solar have the knowledge and expertise to deliver quality through and through.
As members of the Clean Energy Council, and accredited retailers, consider EPC Solar for all of your engineering, procurement, and commercial construction needs.
J left this great review on EPC Solar on Google, “Brilliant work by the team at EPC Solar - install on our café was smooth and already seeing huge energy savings.”
If you’re looking for more information to improve your energy efficiency in Canberra, you might like our article on the best solar panel installers, the best solar battery installers, the best solar panel cleaners and maintenance or the best double glazing companies Canberra has to offer. To integrate with electricity check out our article on the best electricity providers in the region.
Your experience with commercial solar installers in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the commercial solar installers listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do solar installers need to be licensed?
Yes. In the ACT installers of commercial solar panels must hold an electrical license as well as an accreditation issued by the Clean Energy Council. There are two levels of accreditation, one for on-grid and another for off-grid installation. It is also worth noting that both the electrical license and accreditation are issued to individuals, not companies. For further information on accreditation categories visit the Clean Energy Council.
Do I need a solar designer?
Yes. A solar designer typically conducts a site-specific engineering analysis to create an overall solar system design. They consider factors such as solar locations, their angles and aspects, shading and temperature, and energy consumption patterns. A solar system design must be completed and signed by a Clean Energy Council accredited designer. Some installers may hold accreditations for both design and installation work, while others are accredited for design or installation only.
Are government rebates or incentives available?
In some instances, a government rebate or incentive may be applicable so do consult your installer for advice on those currently in operation. Your installer should be able to provide advice on each of these and point you in the direction of more detailed information online.
Do solar systems require regular maintenance?
Most surface panels are installed at a pitch that allows for self-cleaning, and if quality components are used and expertly installed then little maintenance is generally required. That said, periodic checks and assessments are often recommended to ensure optimum performance. Always follow manufacturer advice with regards to care and maintenance post installation.
What is the expected lifespan of a solar photovoltaic panel?
Most manufacturers typically provide a 25-year output warranty on solar panels however, the expected lifespan can last well beyond this timeframe. Climatic conditions such as strong wind, fluctuating temperatures, and seasonal weather patterns, can deteriorate the system reducing electricity production.
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