Installing a solar system at your home is not enough for you to become energy efficient. In real terms, it means that your solar panels are generating an ideal amount of energy. There are only two ways to track it, the first being rummaging through monthly bills and looking for any changes in energy consumption. Secondly, a solar monitoring app or a smart meter for solar can do the same for you in real-time.
A solar monitoring app is a software application that allows users to track and monitor the performance of their solar power system. The app typically provides real-time data on energy generation, system performance, and energy consumption, and helps users optimize their solar energy usage to reduce costs and maximize savings. Some apps also provide alerts and notifications for maintenance and other system-related issues.
The cost of a solar monitoring system in Australia can vary depending on the type and features of the system, as well as the installation and setup costs. On average, a basic monitoring system can cost between $500 to $1000, while a more advanced system with more features and capabilities can cost between $1000 to $2000. Installation costs can also vary, with some installations requiring additional equipment, such as sensors and data loggers, which can add to the overall cost of the system.
Types of Solar Monitoring Apps
There are a plethora of apps in the market to choose and some of the top-performing apps are here that you may try.
Enphase Enlighten
This app provides real-time monitoring of your solar panel system, including energy production, consumption, and system performance.
My SolarEdge Monitoring
This app offers a detailed overview of your solar system’s performance, including real-time data and historical trends.
SunPower Monitoring
SunPower offers a user-friendly app that provides real-time monitoring and alerts for your solar panel system, as well as energy savings reports.
SMA Sunny Portal
This app provides real-time monitoring and analysis of your solar panel system, including performance data, energy consumption, and more.
Fronius Solar Web
This solar monitoring app provides real-time monitoring of your solar panel system, as well as historical data and performance analysis. It also offers alerts and notifications for system maintenance and other important events.
Benefits of Solar Monitoring System
Real-time monitoring
You will be able to track energy production, consumption, and storage in real time.
Increased efficiency
It helps in identifying issues with the system and optimising system performance for increased energy savings.
Early detection of faults
With solar monitoring system, you can detect faults early and resolve them before they lead to significant losses.
Improved energy management
A solar monitoring app generates a report on energy use patterns and adjusts usage to optimize energy production and reduce waste.
Remote monitoring
Users may access the system remotely, from anywhere, and receive alerts and notifications via app or email.
Increased ROI
The app along with a smart meter for solar increase return on investment by maximizing energy production and reducing downtime.
Increased transparency
Consumers need not worry about manual tracking. The entire process is automated which improves transparency and accountability through data tracking and reporting.
Easy maintenance
Earlier, any fault in solar systems was not easily detected. Through a smart solar monitoring solution, you may now schedule regular maintenance and receive reminders, ensuring the system stays in top condition.
Smart Meter: Additional Device for Solar System
A smart meter is a device that measures energy consumption in real-time and transmits the data to the energy supplier for billing purposes. If you are wondering how a smart meter for solar works, you may understand the process in these simple steps:
- A smart meter records the flow of electricity being used by the household regularly through the grid and in-house solar system.
- This data is collected and automatically sent to your energy supplier through a preferred mode of communication channels.
- A bill is generated against this data and sent to you. This whole process is automated and reliable.
After Power Choice of Reforms was introduced in 2017, customers are only allowed to install smart or digital meters for solar at home. However, if you already have an old traditional meter, you may continue to use it in NSW and Queensland areas but they are mandatory in the Victoria region.
Smart Meter Cost in Australia
The cost of a smart meter in Australia can vary depending on various factors such as the state, the retailer, and the type of meter installed. On average, the cost of a smart meter ranges from around $300 to $800, with some providers offering discounts or subsidies for eligible customers. However, the cost of the meter is usually recovered over time through savings on energy bills.
All in all, you will be free from keeping tabs after installing a solar monitoring app with a smart meter for solar.
