Darebin Climate Action Now

Solar, Batteries and EVs: Powering Your Future

Once your home is more efficient and your appliances are electric, you can get even more value by generating your own electricity. Solar panels, batteries and electric vehicles (EVs) are all part of the broader energy transition, helping you save money and reduce emissions.

Solar panels

A rooftop solar system typically includes photovoltaic (PV) panels and an inverter. The panels generate DC (direct current) power from sunlight, and the inverter converts it to usable AC (alternating current) power for your home. Most homes in Darebin will support a solar array between 3 and 10+ kilowatts, depending on roof space and orientation. Panels facing north, east or west are best, but south-facing roofs can still contribute. The fewer obstructions like trees, TV antennas or air conditioning units, the better your generation potential.

It is worth installing as many panels as your roof can reasonably fit. The Victorian Government is offering rebates for installing solar panels which can cover some of the expense. Adding a battery at the same time as your solar panels is usually the most cost-effective option, as installation and labour costs are shared. If you need to add a battery later, it is still possible and can be relatively straightforward, just make sure your inverter is appropriate for a future battery capacity. Ask your installer whether your system will allow for battery expansion or EV integration down the track.

If you want extra security, ask your installer about backup protection. This feature allows you to keep running on solar and battery power when the grid goes down.

Batteries

A battery stores excess solar energy generated during the day so you can use it at night or during periods of low sunlight. This increases your energy independence and reduces the amount of electricity you need to draw from the grid. It also allows you to keep more of what your solar panels generate, making your system more efficient and cost effective over time, especially as feed-in tariffs for excess solar energy continue to decline.

If cost is a barrier, consider a modular battery system. These allow you to start small and expand over time, so you can grow your storage capacity as your needs or budget change.

From 1 July 2025, the Australian Federal Government’s Cheaper Home Batteries Program provides a 30% upfront discount on battery installations. This significantly reduces the initial outlay and shortens payback periods, making batteries a more accessible and attractive option for many households.

Electric vehicles (EVs)

If you own a car or plan to buy one, an EV can be part of your household energy plan. Charging at home is simple, especially if you drive fewer than 50 kilometres a day. A standard 10 amp power point, which is standard in a Victorian home, will charge your car overnight. A 32 amp outlet can make charging faster. Installing a wall-mounted charger typically costs $600 to $700 if your switchboard is ready.

EV batteries are also large. Most have a storage capacity of 60 to 70 kilowatt hours, much more than most home batteries. In the near future, bi-directional chargers will allow you to use your car battery to power your home or feed energy back into the grid.

When deciding whether an EV makes sense for you, consider how often your car is at home. If it is regularly parked during the day, solar charging becomes even more useful. If you have a larger solar system and can plug in your car during the day you can probably do most of car charging for almost free in the non-winter months. There are smaller EVs that cost less than $35,000 and maintenance costs are low.

Get free expert advice

If you are unsure about how to choose a solar system, compare quotes, or understand battery or EV options, Graham Moore can help. He is a retired Associate Professor of Environmental Engineering who now volunteers with DCAN to help Darebin locals electrify their homes. Whether you are at the beginning of your journey or ready to finalise an install, Graham can offer free, independent advice.

Resources:

RACV’s list of solar and battery rebates in Victoria

The Australian Government Cheaper Home Batteries program

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Darebin Climate Action Now (DCAN) is run by volunteers who want to accelerate the transition to a clean energy future. The information on this website, and provided by our volunteer expert Graham Moore, is general in nature. We recommend you seek independent advice applicable to your individual circumstances.