Solar & batteries explained for Wollongong and the Illawarra region

Eco Ease Electrical specialises in Solar, Batteries, Electrical Repairs and EV charging and Wollongong is one of their key areas to service over the past 15 years.

Wollongong, located on the stunning eastern coast of Australia, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and dramatic cliffs of the Illawarra Escarpment.

This coastal gem offers a blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, with a rich cultural scene, excellent educational institutions like the University of Wollongong, and diverse employment opportunities.

The city’s welcoming community, sustainable living initiatives, and easy access to Sydney make it an ideal place for families, students, and retirees alike. Whether enjoying outdoor activities, exploring local dining and shopping, or participating in cultural events, Wollongong provides a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.

It falls under the postcode 2500 and as of the most recent census data, Wollongong has a population of approximately 295,000. If one counts the wider Wollongong area such as Kiama and Helensburgh the population number increases to about 318,000.

Wollongong is home to several notable landmarks and attractions. The Wollongong Head Lighthouse, a popular spot for both locals and tourists, provides stunning views of the coastline. The Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, is another key attraction, offering cultural and spiritual experiences. Additionally, the University of Wollongong is renowned for its beautiful campus and strong academic reputation.

The economy of Wollongong has historically been rooted in heavy industries, particularly steel manufacturing. The Port Kembla Steelworks, one of the largest in Australia, has played a central role in the city’s industrial landscape.

However, in recent years, Wollongong’s economy has diversified. The education sector, driven by the presence of the University of Wollongong, is a significant contributor to the local economy. Additionally, healthcare, tourism, and information technology are growing industries in the region.

The city has a vibrant cultural scene with various festivals, art galleries, and theaters. The Illawarra Performing Arts Centre is a prominent venue for performances and cultural events. The city’s diverse population contributes to a rich tapestry of cultural experiences and culinary offerings.

• As of June 2024, Wollongong and its surrounding areas have over 9,845 small-scale solar systems installed, amounting to a combined capacity daily of over 246,000kW. Per annum this becomes a very respectable 89 million 835,000 kWh.
• If the value per kWh would be counted at 35 cents, the combined value of all this electricity generated would be more than 31, 4 million dollars. The combined capacity of residential solar installations is approximately 50 megawatts (MW).
• More than 530 commercial properties, including businesses and public buildings, have adopted solar energy systems. Commercial installations contribute an additional 20 MW, bringing the total installed solar capacity in Wollongong to around 70 MW.

On the first day of summer always the 1st of December in Wollongong, the dawn is at 5:09 am, with sunrise at 5:38 am, followed by 14 hours and 11 minutes of sunlight with the sunset at 7:55 pm. The solar noon, meaning the exact middle of the day, when the sun is at its highest will be at 12:46 pm. Dusk will start at 8:23 pm. As you can see the solar generation around this time of the year is excellent.

On the first day of winter the 1st of June, in Wollongong the dawn is at 6:28 am, with sunrise at 6:55 am, followed by 9 hours and 54 minutes of sunlight with the sunset at 4:55 pm. The solar noon, meaning the exact middle of the day, when the sun is at its highest will be at 11:55 am. Dusk will start at 5:23 pm  

So you can see the solar generation between summer and winter has a difference of 4 hours and 17 minutes, making overall the sunlight hours per annum very good for solar power generation in the Wollongong Region. 

Samples of local solar output for different system sizes can be found here in the table below – or via the YEA calculators.

*Can vary and depends on the amount of self-consumption vs export

There are around 1,500 residential battery storage systems installed in Wollongong. The combined storage capacity of these systems is approximately 15 megawatt-hours (MWh).The adoption rate of battery storage systems is growing at an annual rate of about 20%, driven by the increasing affordability of battery technology and greater awareness of energy storage benefits. So right now out of 10 solar systems installed in the Wollongong area – 3 have a battery added to it.

Investing in a solar system is a smart choice, but adding a battery storage system can take your savings and energy independence to the next level. Battery storage systems allow you to store excess energy generated during the day, ensuring you have a reliable power source during the night or on cloudy days.

This continuous power supply not only maximises your savings but also enhances the overall efficiency of your solar setup.

• You can store surplus solar energy and use it during peak electricity rate periods. This strategy helps you avoid higher electricity costs, leading to significant savings over time. By reducing your reliance on the grid, you make the most out of your solar investment.
• They have the ability to provide backup power during outages. Whether it’s a storm or an unexpected grid failure, your battery can keep essential appliances running, offering peace of mind and an uninterrupted power supply.
• Battery storage systems empower you to manage your energy consumption more efficiently. With greater control over your usage, you can optimise when and how you use stored energy, enhancing the overall performance of your solar system and ensuring maximum savings.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity in Wollongong, driven by their cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits. Compared to traditional petrol or diesel vehicles, EVs are cheaper to operate, with lower running costs and minimal maintenance requirements. There are over 4000 EV registered in the wider Wollongong area by the end of June 2024.

The benefits of an Electric Vehicle include:

• Operating an EV is significantly more economical than a traditional vehicle. Electricity costs less than petrol, and EVs have fewer moving parts, leading to reduced maintenance expenses.
• EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them an eco-friendly choice. By reducing air pollution and greenhouse gases, EVs contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment.

Eco Ease offers professional EV charger installation services, ensuring that your transition to EV ownership is smooth and convenient. Our team is dedicated to helping you select the right charger and ensuring a safe and efficient installation process.

At Eco Ease our commitment to our customers in Wollongong doesn’t end with the installation of your solar system or EV charger. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional aftersales service, ensuring that your investment continues to perform optimally and provides you with peace of mind.

Our maintenance plans are designed to keep your solar system and EV chargers in top condition. Regular maintenance checks help identify and resolve potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring the longevity and efficiency of your equipment.

By integrating battery storage with your solar system and embracing the benefits of electric vehicles, you can enhance your energy independence, save on costs, and contribute to a greener future.

Eco Ease is here to support you every step of the way, from solar investments to EV charger installations, ensuring you make the most of your sustainable energy solutions. Call us on 1300 793 901 for further information.