In Mackay, Queensland, solar adoption is rapidly growing, with over 16,397 small-scale solar installations contributing a total capacity of around 117,704 kW as of October 2024. Approximately 20-25% of households in Mackay have embraced solar energy, taking advantage of the region’s favourable solar conditions. This transition has resulted in significant savings on electricity bills, with many households and businesses saving between $800 and $1,200 annually. Additionally, the shift to solar energy is contributing to environmental sustainability by reducing carbon footprints and supporting clean, renewable energy use throughout the region.
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Mackay solar statistics
Mackay boasts ideal sun exposure for great solar output throughout the year. Below are some of the most important factors that affect solar production in Mackay.
Data: Weatherspark
- Average Solar Hours: Mackay experiences strong solar potential, with peak sun hours averaging 7.5 hours in December and November, and 6.5 hours in January, making it ideal for solar energy generation.
- Temperature Ranges: The city has warm summers and mild winters, with average highs peaking at 31°C in January and December, and average lows dropping to around 21°C in June and July.
- Cloud Cover: Cloud cover is higher in the cooler months, with 75-80% in May through July, and decreases in the summer months, reaching 60-65% in November through February, resulting in more sunlight for solar generation.
Mackay homes with a solar system
16,397
Mackay homes with battery storage
Unknown
Queensland EV ownership
Unknown
Figures updated 2024
Why Solar and Battery Storage are essential for Mackay homes and businesses
As Mackay continues to embrace renewable energy, solar and battery storage offer innovative solutions for homes and businesses. These technologies not only provide financial benefits but also contribute to a more sustainable and energy-efficient future for the region.
- Maximised Energy Efficiency: Mackay enjoys strong solar potential, with over 6.5 peak sun hours per day, making solar systems an excellent way to reduce reliance on grid power and maximise energy efficiency.
- Cost Savings: Solar and battery storage help homes and businesses save on electricity bills by storing excess energy for use during peak demand periods, reducing the need to purchase expensive grid power.
- Energy Independence: Solar systems paired with batteries provide greater energy independence, ensuring a reliable power supply even during grid outages or peak demand times.
- Environmental Impact: Solar energy is clean, renewable, and sustainable, helping reduce carbon footprints and support Mackay’s shift toward eco-friendly energy solutions.
City of Mackay suburbs
The following suburbs can enjoy the benefits of solar and battery storage. Contact your council to find out if your home has any restrictions or heritage overlays that may impact the installation of solar on your home or business.
- Andergrove – 4740
- Bakers Creek – 4740
- Balberra – 4740
- Beechmont – 4740
- Blacks Beach – 4740
- Broadway – 4740
- East Mackay – 4740
- Eimeo – 4740
- Glenella – 4740
- Mackay – 4740
- Mackay Harbour – 4740
- Midge Point – 4799
- Mirani – 4754
- Moranbah – 4744
- North Mackay – 4740
- North Eton – 4741
- Ooralea – 4740
- Paget – 4740
- Pleystowe – 4741
- Rural View – 4740
- South Mackay – 4740
- Sarina – 4737
- Sarina Beach – 4737
- South Mackay – 4740
- West Mackay – 4740
Rebates and Incentives for Solar, Batteries, and more in Mackay
Small-scale Technology Certificate (STC)
Homeowners with solar panels installed are entitled to several rebates and incentives,
including the STC. If you have solar panels or a solar hot water system, you are eligible for STCs that you can sell on an open market or give to a solar installer in Mackay to get a huge discount on your solar system.
The amount of STCs you get will depend on the supply and demand. Moreover, the number of STCs you get will also depend on your system size and location.
Feed-in Tariff (FiT)
The FiT provides Mackay homeowners credit for every kWh of energy their solar system exports back into the grid. Your energy retailer applies it and you will see it as a discount off your electricity bill. Some energy retailers offer higher FiTs, which is why you should take the time to compare energy retailers.
Currently, the QLD state government doesn’t offer any solar rebates. However, stay up to date with solar rebates and incentives here.
How much can I save with solar in Mackay
In Mackay, QLD, the savings from installing a solar system depend on its size and energy consumption. Here’s a breakdown of potential savings for different system sizes:
- 5 kW system:
- Estimated annual output: Approximately 7,300 kWh.
- Savings: Based on an average electricity cost of around 30 cents per kWh, you could save about $2,190 annually by self-consuming the majority of your solar power, assuming you use around 80% of the generated power.
- 6.6 kW system:
- Estimated annual output: Roughly 9,570 kWh.
- Savings: Estimated annual savings could reach about $2,871, assuming similar self-consumption rates.
- 8 kW system:
- Estimated annual output: Approximately 11,400 kWh.
- Savings: You could save around $3,420 per year if you consume most of this power.
- 10 kW system:
- Estimated annual output: Around 14,250 kWh.
- Savings: With this system size, potential annual savings could be about $4,275.
Key points to consider:
- Feed-in Tariffs: Any excess power fed back into the grid is typically compensated at rates between 3 to 12 cents per kWh, which can affect overall savings.
- Government incentives: The federal government offers incentives through Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), which can cover up to 30% of installation costs.
- Payback period: The average payback period for solar installations in Hobart ranges from 3.4 to 3.9 years
Energy Matters’ solar and battery installation services in Mackay
Energy Matters proudly serves Mackay by connecting homes and businesses with local and trusted installers. Our network of solar companies provides high-quality solar and battery installations, ensuring that residents and businesses can benefit from solar technology tailored to Mackay’s unique environment.
- Solar panel installation: With extensive knowledge of solar panel installation Mackay, Energy Matters connects you with installers who will provide expert consultations to identify the most effective systems, allowing customers to benefit from Mackay’s abundant sunlight and achieve maximum energy savings.
- Battery storage solutions: Offering advanced storage solutions from a range of quality manufacturers, Our installers help our customers enhance their solar installation Mackay setup with reliable backup options.
- Ongoing support and maintenance: Support and maintenance services ensure that solar system installation Mackay customers can rely on their systems year-round, optimising efficiency and performance.
- Financing options and incentives: Our network of installers offers flexible financing and guides home and business owners through local rebate options, making solar installations Mackay accessible to more residents.
Energy Matters is here to help you find the best solar system installation company in Mackay.
Energy efficient upgrades
Saving on your energy bills goes deeper than just solar and battery storage. Upgrading your home appliances can see significant reductions in your bills and your environmental impact. Here are just some of the energy efficiency upgrades you can make in your home and business:
- Hot water system: Solar hot water systems and heat pumps
- Energy and water-efficient appliances: Dishwashers, refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, and air conditioners
- Electronics: LED lighting and smart home monitoring
- EV chargers: Installing EV chargers at home or work provides convenient charging and reduces reliance on grid power, especially when paired with solar.
