Resources - FAQs

Ecovation was started in 2006 as a direct response to the overwhelming evidence into the impacts of global warming widely viewed as a consequence of mankind’s over consumption of natural resources. Ecovation’s main office is located in Arundel on the Gold Coast.

We were one of two suppliers to the previous Queensland Solar Hot Water Program as well as enjoying a partnership with the Logan City Council whilst launching our 'Solar Neighbourhoods Program'. The program has received the highest accolades from the community and was a finalist in the prestigious 2009 Keep Australia Beautiful Awards in the Energy Warriors category that recognises Local Government Energy Conservation Initiatives.

Ecovation currently service Brisbane, Gold Coast, Ipswich, Logan, Moreton Bay, Redlands as well as Northern NSW.

View the About Us Page

Solar PV Power Systems

2. What electricity power savings are possible on a Solar PV Power system?

Based upon research conducted by the Clean Energy Council, even a basic 1.5 kW system can produce annual savings of $736. Based on this, your system choice should be relevant to how much electricity you produce and how much you wish to save. The following table demonstrates the type of savings possible.

These savings come from using less electricity from the grid (resulting in a lower electricity bill), and receiving payments from the Solar Bonus Scheme for exporting excess electricity (generated from the solar panels) to the grid. These savings percentages are to be used as a guide only for an average household in Queensland. Savings may vary depending on energy use, energy costs and system installed.

Based on excess power being sold into the grid under the Solar Bonus Scheme in which you earn 44 cents per for every kilowatt hour of excess electricity created and fed back into the grid. That's more than double the current general domestic use tariff of 18.84c/kWh (inc GST as at 1 July 2009). (Based on the average daily savings of $2.02 as recorded in the Solar PV Consumer Guide, Volume 11, 13 July 2011 available for download from the Clean Energy Council Website)

A critical factor would be reducing your base load power usage, especially when you are out during the day to maximise the excess power you sell into the grid. See the Ecovation website for tips on reducing your base load power usage.

3. How have you calculated the possible power savings on a Solar PV Power System?

These savings come from using less electricity from the grid (resulting in a lower electricity bill), and receiving payments from the Solar Bonus Scheme in QLD for exporting excess electricity (generated from the solar panels) to the grid. The Solar Bonus Scheme is a “Net” Feed In Tariff only paying for excess electricity you export.In NSW you are paid a “Gross” Feed In Tariff for all solar electricity generated. Ask our Site Assessor for more information or go to http://www.industry.nsw.gov.au/energy/sustainable/renewable/solar/solar-scheme

The Queensland Government estimates the average customer operating a 1.5 kilowatt (kW) solar system can cut their electricity bill by up to $400 a year if they're signed up to the Solar Bonus Scheme. (Visit www.brightthing.energy.qld.gov.au/solar-bonus-scheme.html for more information)

Tax & Pensioner rules for solar income clarified

At this point, there doesn't appear to be any specific taxation legislation dealing with income derived from feed in tariffs. Whether it is assessable income depends on the income producing nature of the activity.

If it can be demonstrated that the system was installed with a view to making a profit, then receipts under the feed in tariff would be considered assessable income while all expenses associated with the income generating activity would be deductible (eg depreciation).

In most cases, systems installed at domestic sites would not be taxable as they would be considered personal use / hobby (i.e. not in the nature of a business or profit making scheme). If the system is installed at a commercial site, it will most likely be considered taxable. However, system owners should consult their accountant for advice or can also request a private ruling by the ATO.

Centrelink says feed-in tariff credits on electricity accounts will not be subject to income tests, but feed in tariff cash payments to pensioners (for example by cheque or by direct deposit) will continue to be counted as income for pension purposes.   The adjusted policy applies from 14 May 2010 and is relevant to not just pensions, but all Social Security income support payments.   

Centrelink says feed-in tariffs paid as cash will be included under the income test over 12 months. For example, if a beneficiary of Centrelink income support payments receives a cheque from their electricity company for $260 it will be counted as $10 income per fortnight for 26 fortnights.

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Installing Solar Hot Water could save you up to $250 on your electricity bill per year, while installing a 1.5 kilowatt solar power system could save you around $400 on your electricity bill, just by using less electricity from the grid.

If you were signed up to the Solar Bonus Scheme you would also receive payments for exporting excess electricity (generated from the solar panels) back to the grid, meaning these savings could be even higher. As well as making significant savings on your electricity bill, installing solar panels or Solar Hot Water can help reduce your carbon footprint on average by two tonnes a year. That's a massive benefit for our environment. And when you add that up over millions of Queenslanders, you begin to see just what a positive impact we can all make by working together. Visit www.brightthing.energy.qld.gov.au/virtual-solar-power-station.html for more information)

4. What is the definition of a ‘Standard Installation’ for a Solar PV Power System?

A standard install includes installation on a low set home, with a North / NW / NE position, internal inverter, and for sites located within 50km of GPO. An explanation of what is included and not included is available on our website below.

View our Solar PV Installation page

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5. What are some examples of non-standard installation costs for Solar PV Power System?

Examples for Solar PV Power System installation variations may include the following:

• High set building $295.00

• Split Array $95.00

• Additional cable (over 20m) $295.00

Prices subject to change without notice.

View our Solar PV Installation page

6. What are the payment terms for a Solar PV Power System?

Deposit of 10% must be made when signing the order contract and the balance of payment is due on scheduling installation (which is usually 2 weeks prior to installation occurring).

Ecovation provides a 24 month interest free finance option so that the savings you attain from your reduced energy bills by installing Solar PV Power System can be used to help make the payments. In some cases the savings can even cover most or all of the payments, depending on what system you purchase and your particular energy usage.

A 5-day cooling off period is provided after which you may lose your deposi should you wish to cancel your order. See also the Ecovation Terms & Conditions.

7. What finance is available for a Solar PV Power System?

2 years interest free finance is available when purchasing your Solar PV Power System. Ask your Sales Representative for more information on this.

Visit our Interest Free Finance Page

8. What warranty comes with a Solar PV Power System?

Ecovation will either provide the warranty as the manufacturer where we are the direct importer or facilitate warranty claims with the manufacturer.

View the Solar PV Power Warranty page

Solar Hot Water Systems

9. What Solar Hot Water systems are available?

Evacuated tube Solar Hot Water system: It is a split Solar Hot Water system with a 250/300/400 litre virtuous enamel lined low carbon steel water tank, with either 20, 25 or 30 evacuated tubes.

View the Evacuated Tube page

Heat Pump Hot Water system: This is a Stiebel Hot Water Heat Pump system.

View the Heat Pump page

10. What electricity power savings are possible?

By installing Solar Hot Water we estimate you can save up to 80% off your hot water power bills.

The average household spends approximately $1,400 on electricity per year and it is estimated that 30% of that is usually for hot water. Therefore the net potential savings is approx. $336 per year when you install Solar Hot Water.

11. How have you calculated the possible power savings?

The Queensland Government provides the following:

• Installing Solar Hot Water could save you up to $250 on your electricity bill per year, while installing a 1.5 kilowatt solar power system could save you around $400 on your electricity bill, just by using less electricity from the grid. If you were signed up to the Solar Bonus Scheme you would also receive payments for exporting excess electricity (generated from the solar panels) back to the grid, meaning these savings could be even higher.

• As well as making significant savings on your electricity bill, installing solar panels or Solar Hot Water can help reduce your carbon footprint on average by two tonnes a year. That’s a massive benefit for our environment. And when you add that up over millions of Queenslanders, you begin to see just what a positive impact we can all make by working together. (Visit www.brightthing.energy.qLD.gov.au/virtual-solar-power-station.html for more information)

The Queensland Government provides one example on their website: “Before installing a Solar Hot Water system, Steve’s hot water electricity usage was around $120 per quarter. Since installing Solar Hot Water, Steve’s electricity bill has reduced by $70.* (a 58% savings). This example is based on actual savings achieved by a local Brisbane family. Results will vary between households. Visit www.brightthing.energy.qld.gov.au/solar-hot-water-rebate.html for more information)

12. What is the definition of a standard installation for a Solar Hot Water system?

A standard installation is based on a low set home and was developed by the Queensland Government for the Queensland Solar Hot Water Program.

Ecovation have continued to use this standard installation definition as we believe it has set a very important benchmark by which consumers can judge and compare against.

View our Solar Hot Water Installation page

13. What are some examples of non-standard installation costs?

Examples for Solar Hot Water System installation variations may include the following:

• High set building $595.00

• Water tank relocation $595 (e.g. from inside the house to outside)

• Travel if more than 50 km from the GPO and/or if any travel fees are required (e.g. ferry, barge, etc.)

Prices subject to change without notice.

14. What are the payment terms for Solar Hot Water and when do I get my rebate(s)?

A deposit must be made when signing the order. The balance of payment is due on scheduling installation (which is usually 2 weeks prior to installation occurring). Balance of payment includes the Queensland Solar Hot Water Rebate and Federal Solar Hot Water Rebate which you claim back after installation.

A 5 day cooling off period is provided after which you may lose your deposit. See also the Ecovation Terms & Conditions.

You must submit your application for rebates after installation. The Federal Solar Hot Water rebates requires you to submit a rebate application within 62 days of installation.
We expect the Queensland rebates will take 8 to 12 weeks from the time you submit your rebate. Ecovation can provide a finance option so you are not out of pocket while you wait for the rebates. Talk to your Sales Representative regarding these options. Subject to change without notice.

15. What finance is available for Solar Hot Water?

Buy now and pay nothing for six months is a credit facility offered by MyBuy Once Finance and is subject to terms and conditions. Fees and charges apply. Ask your Sales Representative for a full list of the terms and conditions in relation to the finance.

16. What is the warranty for Solar Hot Water?

Ecovation will either provide the warranty as the manufacturer where we are the direct importer or facilitate warranty claims with the manufacturer.

View our Solar Hot Water Warranty page

17. What type of hot water systems are available?

There are two basic types of Solar Hot Water systems. One takes the energy directly from the sun (solar thermal collectors or evacuated tubes) the other takes the heat from the air – rain, hail or shine (Heat Pump technology).

View our Solar Hot Water Products page

18. What are Solar Evacuated Solar Tubes?

The Evacuated Tube consists of solar tube panels on the roof and the tank on ground level. The glass in the tubes acts much like a thermos flask, trapping about 97 per cent of the energy absorbed from the sun, resulting in increased efficiency. It features a series of stylish tubular solar collectors that track the sun all day to deliver superior heat output even on cloudy days.

View our Evacuated Tubes page

19. What are Heat Pump Systems?

Hot Water Heat Pumps use the renewable resource of air to heat water; the principle is very similar to the operation of a refrigerator, but only in reverse.

View our Heat Pump page

Government Rebates & Schemes

20. What are the Queensland Solar Hot Water Rebates?

Visit www.cleanenergy.qld.gov.au/queensland_solar_hot_water_program.cfm for more information

21. What are the NSW Solar Hot Water Rebates?

Visit www.environment.nsw.gov.au/rebates/ccfhws.htm for more information

22. What are the Federal Solar Hot Water Rebates?

Visit www.environment.gov.au/energyefficiency/solarhotwater/index.html for more information

23. What is the Solar Credits Scheme for Solar PV Power?

Visit www.climatechange.gov.au/en/government/initiatives/renewable-target/need-ret/solar-ret.aspx for more information

24. What is the Solar Bonus Scheme (net feed-in tariff) for Solar PV Power in QLD?

Visit www.cleanenergy.qld.gov.au/solar_bonus_scheme.cfm for more information

25. What is the Gross Feed-In Tariff for Solar PV Power in NSW?

Visit www.industry.nsw.gov.au/energy/sustainable/renewable/solar/solar-scheme for more information

26. Can I claim a rebate if I have already claimed the Insulation Rebate?

Yes you can claim any State Solar Hot Water rebates but you will not be able to claim a $1,000 Solar Hot Water rebate from the Federal Government under the Renewable Energy Bonus Scheme.

A claim under the Insulation Rebate will still allow you to attain Solar Credits and a Net or Gross Feed-In Tariff (depending on where you live) for the installation of solar power (PV).

27. Can I claim a rebate if I have already claimed the $8,000 the Solar Homes and Community Plan (SHCP) rebate?

A claim under the SHCP does not affect any Solar Hot Water rebates, but it does eliminate you from claiming any Solar Credits for the installation of solar power (PV).

28. Do I have to replace an electric hot water system with a Solar Hot Water system or heat pump to get the rebates?

Yes – Please refer to the various rebate websites above for more information.

Other Questions

29. Does Ecovation install on-roof tank Solar Hot Water systems?

No – the following explains why:

• Roof Mounted Tank & Collector systems are available from other suppliers.

• Ecovation believe an installer must warrant that the homeowner’s roof structure is engineered to take the weight of such a system. The only way this can be determined is to have the roof inspected by an engineer which is very expensive.

• Further due to Occupational Heath and Safety Regulations in order to locate a tank on roof the weight of this item is greater than the maximum allowable lifting capacity for 2 individual men therefore a crane will be required at a an additional cost the customer. An indicative cost for a crane is around $500.
So at this particular time Ecovation are not installing tank on-roof systems. Ecovation can explain at the site assessment how the split evacuated tube system or heat pump will meet your particular needs.

30. How does the on roof system compare to the split system?

The energy savings benefits of the On-Roof versus Split-Systems are usually about the same. While the heat loss is usually less in the split system, as the tank is not as exposed to the elements as the roof mounted tank, some additional energy is required to operate the low wattage pump in the split system costing around $12 per year.

However there is a possible structural risk along with additional installation cost associated with the tank on-roof system. Plus some people find the aesthetics of having a large tank on the roof as very unattractive.

31. Can I Cancel my order?

Yes, a 5 day cooling off period is provided after which you may lose your deposit. See the Ecovation Terms & Conditions on our website.

32. Is there a cooling off period?

Yes, 5 Days Cooling off period applies from when you signed the contract. In order to cancel your installation within the cooling off period – you must notify Ecovation in writing within the five days

33.What tariff will the Solar Hot Water system be connected to and why?

Tariff 33 (Off peak – 18 hours p/day) is recommended. Information regarding the tariff will be provided as part of your installation package. Our site inspector can provide you with another copy of this information when he does your site inspection.

34. Who do I call if there is a problem with the system?

Any problems with your system, just give us a call on (07) 5537 4011

35. What happens to my Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)?

Your RECs are assigned to Ecovation as part of the payment for the system. It is a condition of your participation in the “Solar Neighbourhoods Program” that this occurs.

36. I know an Electrician; can they do my electrical work for me, for the non-standard installation costs?

There are two reason we prefer you do not do this;

• Ecovation are responsible for installing the system(s) so that it meets all plumbing and electrical standards which means we are liable for the installation and we will not take on this liability if you have someone do part of the work.

• For your warranty to be valid we need to do the work so it meets all manufactures’ plumbing and electrical standards.

The above also applies to your own plumber. If you undertake your own works in agreeance with Ecovation, we will charge you a re-inspection fee of $88 so we can be certain the works meet the required standards. If the Local Council Inspection fails due to your own works – we will ask you to pay any re-inspection fees the council may change.

37. What areas do Ecovation service?

Ecovation currently service Brisbane,Gold Coast, Ipswich, Logan, Moreton Bay, Redlands and Northern NSW. If you live outside these areas you can still Register but it may take longer before we can service your needs.

38. How do these installations contribute to the Virtual Solar Power Station for Queensland?

Town by town and city by city, Queenslanders are working together to double our solar energy over the next five years. The more people that jump on board, the faster we'll build a 500 megawatt virtual solar power station for Queensland.

Queensland residents and businesses can help build the virtual power station by installing Solar Panels or Solar Hot Water Systems.

By tapping into solar, households and businesses are using less electricity from the grid, as their solar panels are generating clean, green energy from the sun.

39. If I install solar, how much will my house be contributing to the virtual solar power station?

The amount of electricity your solar panels or hot water system will contribute depends on the size of your system.

For example:
• 665 households each with a 1.5 kilowatt solar power system will contribute one megawatt to the virtual solar power station.
• Every 833 average-sized household Solar Hot Water systems* will contribute around one megawatt towards the target.

Visit www.brightthing.energy.qld.gov.au/virtual-solar-power-station.html for more information

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