ECG Electrical, one of Canberra's most recommended solar panel installers. Photo: ECG Electrical.
In the razzle-dazzle industry of Silicone Valley tech innovation, one would easily mistake solar battery technology as something new. While new generations have certainly been produced, the notion of storing solar or wind generated power has long been used.
Solar batteries capture unused solar power, reserving it for consumption when sunlight is not readily available. The biggest drawcard for owners is accessing this power reserve at night or during low sunlight days, reducing grid reliance.
Indeed, solar batteries offer immense consumer benefits. Perhaps the biggest drawcard is greater power utilisation. Not only does this mean maximising a systems capability; it ultimately leads to long term energy cost savings.
These savings effectively come about by generating electricity at a lower cost than purchasing on the grid. Attractive as this sounds, the economic benefits however do not end there. As a complete system component, batteries can also help generate revenue by on-selling power to tenants or electricity retailers.
In the era of renewables and clean energy consumption, the demand for solar batteries is greater than ever. In Canberra, many new properties come with fully integrated solar capabilities. Moreover, those who adopted solar panels in years gone by are considering batteries to lift system efficiency. But, with much to consider where does one start? We have compiled a shortlist of our region’s leading solar battery installers to help you along the way.
What makes a great solar battery installer?
Great solar batter installers delivery energy storage solutions that allow clients to reap the benefits for decades. Here are our suggestions on what to look out for when assessing solar battery installers:
- Solar experts. The nature of solar battery installation is vast as it is varied. Some installers may be more familiar with new build installation, while others are skilled at integrating within existing systems. Moreover, some installers will be accredited to work across both design and install, and others installation only. Therefore, consider your individual circumstances and seek an installer accordingly. Look for a minimum 5 years’ experience, great customer reviews, and any personal recommendations. Positive feedback around pre and post installation, service levels, and issue resolution all help to provide assurance.
- 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 local solar industry is heavily accredited by peak industry body, the Clean Energy Council. Funded by members, it issues accreditations for installers, along with accreditation for design-only, install-only, to design and install. Before proceeding with an installer validate their accreditation with the Clean Energy Council. And, for added peace of mind review their list of approved solar retailers for your battery purchase.
- Safety first. Much like any electrical appliance solar batteries are not without their risks. Some safety risks include chemical, fire, and explosion hazards and these risks should always be considered in installation. Provided your battery is installed to code and by an accredited installer these risks should be mitigated. For added peace of mind review contractor insurances prior to proceeding.
- Transparency. Great installers provide fully transparent contracts. Look for installers who deliver itemised quotes, including itemised components by brand and product number, along with labour. Quotes should also include an assessment of the systems performance and overall 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.
The best solar battery 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.
ECG Electrical
ECG Electrical, local solar specialists, design and install customised energy solutions for residential and commercial clients. Its qualified and certified team helps clients reduce energy costs and carbon footprint though high-quality and expertly installed solar power solutions.
An area of expertise is helping clients maximise solar with some of the best battery storage systems on the market, saving thousands of dollars buying energy from the grid. The range of battery systems includes Tesla PowerWall, Redback Technologies and LG Chem, with modern, sleek and compact designs available. Solutions can be customised.
A Clean Energy Council Approved Solar Retail, ECG Electrical provides knowledgeable advice so all clients get the right solution for their needs. Partnering with Evergen, clients have access to intelligent control free for the life of their battery system, delivering the greatest savings. This is especially important with rising energy costs.
ECG Electrical also handles solar inspections and repairs—cleaning systems and repairing faulty ones so they work their best. The team undertake anti-islanding testing requirements for the ultimate in safety and offers the full range of electrical services include solar, general electrical (light and power), data and more.
On Google, Ian Spence wrote, “We were seeking a company to supply solar panels and batteries for our new home. The team from ECG Electrical were quick in responding to our questions and the provision of quotes. Once we accepted the quote, they got the process for approvals commenced on the same day. Excellent customer service.”
SolarHub
SolarHub has helped over 12,000 customers reduce their energy bills and greenhouse gas emissions by harnessing the power of the sun. In addition to solar PV technologies, the expert team at SolarHub helps individuals and businesses with high-quality battery storage. SolarHub has installed over 1,800 batteries in the ACT under the Next Gen Energy Storage Program, the most of any eligible installers.
Battery solutions by SolarHub can reduce electricity bills by up to 80 per cent. Currently, SolarHub offers Tesla Powerwall and SolarEdge Home Battery. They rigorously test batteries at their Mitchell facility to ensure their performance and safety before introducing them to the market.
SolarHub has developed a local expertise on Virtual Power Plant development that has since been exported to the NSW region surrounding the ACT, as well as on the South Coast. The Smart Distributed Batteries Project has received official funding from the NSW Government, and through this project, SolarHub is currently building a 6MW Virtual Power Plant to help the grid in period of high energy demands through a smart aggregation of residential batteries. NSW homeowners can receive a $4,950 upfront discount on a battery installation if they decide to participate in the Smart Distributed Batteries Project.
Bob wrote on Riotact, “Solarhub installed a heap of panels and battery under the house in March 2023 and I can’t speak highly enough of them. Highly recommended.”
Mondiaux Solar
Mondiaux Solar is a Canberra-based clean energy provider that has installed rooftop solar panels and batteries for homeowners and businesses since 2011. It uses leading, high-quality battery storage brands like Sungrow, Huawei, Tesla and Alpha Ess, all of which are backed by warranties. Battery storage solutions save clients money by getting the most out of their solar energy.
With competitive pricing, Mondiaux Solar’s installers are fully trained, certified and work to exceptional standards. Every project is customised to suit each client's unique energy needs, including post-installation with Mondiaux Solar's comprehensive aftersales service.
Mondiaux Solar staff at Mitchell office. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Mondiaux Solar has a 20-member strong team and is a government-approved contractor. The company has signed on to the Clean Energy Council Solar Retailer Code of Conduct and is fully accredited.
Mondiaux Solar recently achieved the distinction of being the Number 1 Solar Business combined in the ACT, and a Top 100 Solar Business in Australia by volume. This achievement establishes them as the leading contributor to the ACT Government's renewable energy goal through solar initiatives. It's a significant milestone for the team, emphasizing their steadfast commitment to excellence and innovation within the solar industry.
Dan Smee wrote on Google, “Mondiaux has been absolutely wonderful to deal with. They respond quickly to questions, pricing is very competitive, and they use quality, trusted products.”
True Connection Electrical
Based in Ngunnawal and servicing the entire ACT region, True Connection Electrical are governed by quality assurance, safety and compliance, and affordability.
The full-service electrical and solar company specialises in residential solutions, also working with local real estate to ensure safe and reliable maintenance programs for managed properties in Canberra.
Covering new installations, scheduled maintenance and emergency repairs, founder Tim and his team of fully qualified technicians are truly passionate about the renewable energy industry.
Ready to help customers who are 'tired of dealing with unreliable electricity sources and rising energy bills', True Connection Electrical offers residential, commercial, industrial and total off-grid solar solutions, including battery system installation and maintenance.
The team works closely with homeowners to tailor systems to their location, property type, lifestyle and energy needs.
Off-grid solar systems provide freedom from the grid, reduce clients' carbon footprint and with a battery system applied, store clean, renewable energy for use at night and on low-production days.
The best part? Every battery system is backed by True Connection Electrical's lifetime workmanship warranty. The company is also recent Local Business Awards finalist for the Canberra region.
Ever the high achiever, True Connection Electrical has maintained a strong five stars on Google thanks to over 350 positive reviews, including this one from 2024 client Gary Wight:
"Tim communicated with me really well leading up to the job telling me exactly what was needed. He then showed up on time and completed the job quickly and as promised. A friendly and professional sparky."
Huglo Solar
Huglo Solar is affectionately known as Canberra's 'energy mate'. A full service solar provider, the local company knows the ACT inside and out - a must, when dealing with the region's volatile climate.
From their headquarters in Mitchell, the team of 15 is led by Tim, Lee and Justin, who together bring decades of combined experience in renewable energy advice, assessment and installation.
Huglo is more than just another solar company - directors have advised top 100 ASX companies on wind and solar renewables investment. It's an organisation that can provide balanced advice to help reduce ongoing energy costs and improve energy independence.
Huglo Solar technicians aren't just installers - they're true energy consultants and experts in residential and commercial solar and battery systems. They also cover electric vehicle chargers, hot water heat pumps and split air conditioning systems.
Huglo Solar even built their own app, to help Canberrans track down the best value plan for their electricity consumption.
Paul sung the team's praises online in early 2024. "We're really impressed with the Huglo team, (they) communicated often and were professional in all our dealings," he said.
"They provided sound advice about system sizing and design options. The team that completed the install did an awesome job considering the unstable weather conditions on the day.
"The day after install, a team member contacted us to make sure we were happy with the work that had been completed and ensure we had a good understanding of our new system and future servicing requirements."
If you’re looking for more ways to improve your energy efficiency take a look at our article on energy saving tips for homes and businesses. For related services perhaps our article on the best solar panel installers, the best commercial solar panel installers, the best solar panel cleaners and maintenance or the best double glazing companies may be of interest. To integrate with electricity, check out our article on the best electricity providers in the region.
Your experience with solar battery 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 solar battery installers listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of solar batteries are available?
Solar battery development is in a state of acceleration around the globe. Here in Canberra, the most common type found in residential settings is the lithium-ion solar batter. Other common types include lead-acid or advanced lead-acid batteries along with flow batteries. Be sure to consider your own solar system step up and research this aspect well.
Can I add a battery to an existing solar system?
In many cases, yes. Key factors to take into consideration include your currently solar set up, system size, and type of system inverter. Authorised solar designers, retailers, and installers are good reference points to assist in determining the right battery integration solution.
What is the expected lifespan of a solar battery?
Although the latest generation of solar battery products is relatively new, current indications suggest that most should last about 10 years under normal usage conditions. Many batteries will also last longer than their warranty period, however their ability to retain energy will gradually reduce over time.
What does solar battery installation cost?
Estimates for solar battery installation typically range from $2,000 to upwards of $3,500. Do remember that installation costs vary between vendors and can be impacted by the type of battery selected, switchboard capability, positioning of the battery, and existing building material. This estimate covers battery installation only; batteries, panels, and their installation, along with any safety inspections are extra.
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. At the time of publication (2022) eligible ACT residents may benefit from rebates offered under the Next Gen Energy Storage Program. Things do change however your installer should be able to provide advice on each of these and point you in the direction of more detailed information online.
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