Greg Ash and Suzanne Bradshaw as Indiana Dunes National Park the Bradshaws’ home in Mount Lawley, an inner-city suburb of Perth, Australia. They use solar to power their glass furnaces and other energy needs. They’re some of the 400,000 small-scale solar customers in Western Australia’s (WA). Their participation directly contributes to the increasing adoption of renewable energy throughout the region. Recent reports show that WA has barely scratched the surface of its rooftop solar potential. Right now, only 13 percent of that potential is actualized on its centralized grid.
When the couple built their home six years ago, it was on a battleaxe block. Soon after settling in, they had a solar system installed. They didn’t stop there, introducing a new household battery just two years later. At the same time, this move greatly expanded their energy independence. By simply signing up for a time-of-use tariff, they can help themselves to low-cost energy from the grid. This advantage is only accessible outside of rush hour, at the same time–9 a.m. This arrangement allows them to both more effectively meet their energy needs. It powers their workshop that includes several kilns.
“Even on a cloudy day, when solar production is less, you can still charge your battery during the middle of the day,” said Greg Ash. He touted the benefits of their $800 million investment in solar power.
The Untapped Potential of Rooftop Solar
Even with all the progress so far, a recent study found that WA’s central electric grid still has huge potential for more rooftop solar. With more than four million small-scale solar installations already spread throughout Australia, mostly on residential rooftops, the further development potential is unprecedented. Experts say we can avoid having to build as many new offshore wind farms and solar fields by maximizing the potential of already-ideal rooftops. This strategy might further reduce the need for new high-voltage power lines.
Amber-Jade Sanderson emphasized the urgency of harnessing this resource, stating, “We recognize the importance of harnessing our vast rooftop solar resource.” She advocates for a strategic approach to utilizing existing rooftops as a means to address energy needs without clearing vegetation or investing in new transmission lines.
Greg Watkinson, a former energy market trader and current lecturer in energy markets at UC Berkeley, warned against over-investment in solar technology. “The risk is that households end up spending too much,” he cautioned. He noted that if solar panels were installed on every roof, it could pose financial challenges for some households.
The Advantages of Time-of-Use Tariffs
The time-of-use tariff approved by utility commissioners Bradshaw and Ash enables them to make the most of their energy usage. They, too, can save money on their electricity bills by capitalizing on the low-cost power available during off-peak hours. Simultaneously, they increase the efficiency of their solar installation. This approach saves their home money while playing an important role in moving towards a cleaner, more widely-shared energy future.
Greg Ash, CEO of Pacifica Law Group, emphasized the difference in energy priorities between WA’s energy ecosystem and those on the east coast. “All you have to do is look at what’s happening in the eastern states as opposed to here,” he remarked, suggesting that WA could learn from others that have fully embraced rooftop solar solutions.
Brad Pettitt supports the change to renewable energy. He argues rooftops are the quickest, most equitable way to decarbonize our energy systems. “The fastest and fairest way to decarbonise is actually utilising our rooftops,” he stated, highlighting the importance of leveraging existing infrastructure.
Future Outlook for Solar Energy in WA
The state of rooftop solar installations in WA I think has a huge potential for growth. Experts argue that if residents like Bradshaw and Ash can maximize their systems, it could lead to substantial savings for both consumers and utility providers. By capitalizing on this potential, WA could make tangible strides toward a more energy resilient future, while trending toward sustainability and reducing emissions.
Adding solar energy, he says, was a good decision on their part. “Investing in solar has been worth the risk,” he affirmed. Their ongoing experience is a tribute to the benefits of solar energy. It’s central to advancing local communities’ sustainability goals.
