The Premium Feed-in Tariff system in Victoria is now closed off to all new customers. The Feed-in Tariff is still available to existing customers though who wish to upgrade their system and increase the savings from their current solar system.

Regency Solar Director, Darren Johannesen says, "If you have an existing system on your roof and you still have more roof space now is the time to increase the size of the solar system and generate more electricity and savings on your power bill."

"Why not secure the best possible savings from your solar investment now?" questions Johannesen. Solar modules are increasing in size and so customers who installed a couple of years ago with 1.5kw systems can now increase their energy generation by adding only a few more panels. "With increased capacity you will be catering for more of your own energy usage.

Solar technology has evolved and a range of intelligent systems are now in the market. Regency Solar's miNRG range includes inverters which allow online monitoring of the system, any faults are detected immediately. "These products are the future in solar systems and can be upgraded over time through software changes." says Johannesen. "Batteries can also be added on to store the energy generated and provide back up power in the instance of a power outage".

The government understands that some people who installed a system early on may want to upgrade their current system. There is a small window left until November 30 to enhance the power generation and make the most out of a solar system.

From the Department of Primary Industries

http://new.dpi.vic.gov.au/energy/sustainable-energy/solar-energy/solar-energy-for-consumers/feed-in-tariffs/premium-feed-in-tariff

Premium Feed-in Tariff

The Premium Feed-in Tariff started in late 2009 and is now closing to new applicants.

Existing customers

Eligibleproperties with an effective Premium Feed-in Tariff contract in place will continue to receive this rate until 2024. To have an effective contract you need to have solar panels fitted, the correct meter installed and be feeding electricity back to the grid.

Adding extra solar panels
Existing customers can add new panels to their current system until the scheme is closed on 30 November 2011. By this date, any additional work or paperwork associated with the installation will need to be complete. Please note: paperwork for additional panels is not subject to the 30 September deadline.

If you add extra panels after 30 November 2011 you will no longer be eligible for the premium rate, you may be eligible to apply for the newTransitional Feed-in Tariff.

Switching electricity companies
You are able to switch electricity companies or contracts and continue to receive the premium rate once you have established your eligibility. Before switching, check if there are any exit fees under your existing contract.

Moving house
The premium rate is linked to the property where the solar panels are installed, so when moving house a customer cannot take the premium rate with them. However, any house which is signed up to the premium rate will remain eligible until 2024, even if it is sold and new residents move in.

Regency Solar offers a new range of Intelligent Solar System. The miNRG systems feature online monitoring and power management to control the flow of energy in your home and to create greater savings. Increase the savings from your existing solar system by adding more panels to enlarge your system size. To find out more about upgrading your system please contact us on 1300 224 903 or email on info@regencysolar.com.au.