In 2008, consumers were treated to dodgy operators and rubbish inverters during the solar boom. Don’t let history repeat itself this time around * Get Guardian Australia environment editor Adam Morton’s Clear Air column as an email This month the new federal battery rebate kicked off. It reminded me of 2008. I was working at the CSIRO and watching the solar boom take off thanks to the new $8,000 solar rebate for 1kW of panels. Consumers were excited, but most had no idea what they were buying or who to trust. Get Guardian Australia environment editor Adam Morton’s Clear Air column as an email Choose well-known brands. Be extremely wary of mystery batteries that popped up yesterday and cost half as much as anything else. Use a local installer with a solid track record – someone who has been around and will still be around when you need them. Read the 1-star reviews. They often reveal the stuff that really matters: ghosting customers, shoddy work, or warranty nightmares. Slow down. The rebate isn’t vanishing tomorrow. Yes, it reduces on Jan 1 but things are mad right now. You might get a better result waiting a few months. Think about sizing. A battery that’s too small will frustrate you, and one that’s too big may never fill. For most households (unless you’re planning to gamble on Amber), 15-20 kWh is the sweet spot. Check your solar capacity. There’s no point having a giant battery you can’t fill. If you want to reduce your reliance on your electricity retailer, ensure your solar is up to the job. Reward good installers. If the crew that did your original solar were great and they sell the battery you want, go back to them. If not, get multiple quotes. Finn Peacock is the founder of solarquotes.com.au Continue reading...

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