Free resource to help community access solar

Wagga Wagga City Council has recently secured free access for the community to the premium version of SunSPOT, a solar calculator developed by University of NSW and the Australian PV Institute.

The SunSPOT tool allows homeowners and small businesses to complete a simple, private and reliable rooftop solar assessment without having to engage with any solar sales companies.

Net Zero Emissions Project Officer Hemendra Chaudhary says this initiative allows those interested in solar or batteries to discover on how much they could be saving.

“This free, accessible tool allows residents to check the suitability of their rooftop and find out what they might save if they install solar in their homes,” Mr Chaudhary said.

“Users of the tool will get suggestions for solar systems that will suit their own circumstances and their own roof to get the maximum savings on their bill.  SunSPOT will also assist our community in achieving our net zero emissions target.”

The Community Net Zero Emissions (NZE) 2050 Roadmap, which was adopted by Council in November 2023, outlines key pathways which our community can utilise to reduce emissions and achieve net zero targets, such as opting into solar use.

To learn more about using the tool, SunSPOT is holding a free online webinar on Tuesday 20 February at 11am.

In this session participants will learn how to get the most accurate solar and battery savings estimates.

Register for the webinar online at events.humanitix.com

“The webinar is a great opportunity to learn more about the SunSPOT tool and how it could help you save money, but for those who cannot access the webinar, or need more assistance, Council is holding a ‘Help Desk’ service every Tuesday from 6 February” Mr Chaudhary said.

“The Help Desk aims to provide in-person assistance to those who are not tech-savvy, lack access to a computer, or missed the webinar and would like a guided walkthrough. It’s open to everyone.”

The Help Desk will be held in the Wagga Wagga City Library’s Learning Space 3 on Tuesdays from 2.30pm – 4.30pm. Attendees need to book a time and bring along their most recent electricity bill.

To book a one-on-one Help Desk appointment, please call our Net Zero Emissions Project Officer on 1300 292 442.

SunSPOT’s development has been supported by state and federal governments, and the NSW Government is also providing a ‘Swap for Solar’ offer to homeowners currently receiving the Low Income Household Rebate to access affordable, clean energy.

Homeowners can swap their rebate for a free, fully installed 3kw solar system with savings of up to $600 a year.

For more information including eligibility and how to apply, visit the NSW Government website: energy.nsw.gov.au/households