The current economic climate has everyone wondering how they can save money while taking care of the environment. Green solutions are available for both homes and businesses, some with rebates available from your State or Federal Government. At Voltora Industries, we’re the Brisbane electrician who’s passionate about sustainable electricity sources that are kind on your pocket and the environment. Let’s take a look at some green solutions you can apply to your property to make it more sustainable.
Solar Electricity and Hot Water
Solar electricity
One of the most common types of green solutions is solar electricity. You can have solar panels installed on your property that store different amounts of power. You also have the option to run all your power from solar or use a combination of powerlines and solar.
Solar panels work by capturing the raw energy from the sun (through light and heat) and converting this into electricity through the built-in photovoltaic cells in the solar panels. The converted electricity is then used to power your home or business.
Switching to solar can significantly reduce your electricity costs. If your system is connected to the grid, it prioritises using solar energy first, then draws from the grid as needed. Plus, many electricity providers offer feed-in tariffs, giving you credits for any excess solar power you export.
Both state and federal governments regularly offer solar installation rebates, though these incentives change—so it’s worth checking what’s available before you commit.
Most residential systems range from 5kW to 10kW, while commercial setups typically start at 10kW, depending on the building size. To give you an idea, a quality 5kW system can produce around 20kWh on a sunny day—roughly the daily energy needs of an average Australian household.
Looking for more information on solar panels, see our previous blog on solar power effectiveness.
Solar hot water
Solar hot water systems work like solar panels, but instead of generating electricity, they use the sun’s energy to heat water. They’re more affordable and easier to install than full solar electricity setups, requiring fewer panels.
A typical four-person household needs a 300–360 litre tank powered by just two solar collectors. These systems heat water during the day and store it for use in your shower, bath, or kitchen. Most tanks include an electric or gas booster to keep your water hot during cloudy or rainy periods.
You also get heat pump hot water systems, which use electricity to extract warmth from the air, much like a reverse fridge, and transfer it into the water tank. Both systems may qualify for government rebates, which vary over time, so it’s worth checking what incentives are currently available before you buy.
Redilight Skylights for Additional Lighting
Leaving lights on wastes electricity and increases costs. Skylights offer a greener alternative by providing natural light without artificial power.
Voltora is a licensed lighting installer of Redilight Solar Hybrid Skylights, which work even in high-density areas where buildings block light. Unlike traditional skylights, the Redilight Spectra system can be installed almost anywhere.
The 24-watt Redilight with optional Day/Night kit eliminates the need for separate electric lighting. Installation is straightforward with no restrictions, and the system maintains comfortable temperatures year-round with no heat gain in summer or loss in winter.
As one of few licensed Redilight contractors in South East Queensland, Voltora offers an energy-efficient lighting solution for both homes and offices.
Choose Energy Rated Appliances and Systems
Consult your licensed electrician about Energy-Rated appliances to reduce consumption and costs. Higher star-rated models may cost more initially but deliver significant long-term savings—typically $100+ annually.
Energy-Rated appliances reduce greenhouse gas emissions and generally last longer than non-rated alternatives. A remarkable 89% of Australian consumers prefer these efficient options over cheaper alternatives.
The rating system covers everything from fridges and washing machines to kettles and TVs. When comparing, ensure you’re evaluating similar appliances that perform the same function. For major installations like air conditioners, heaters, and pool motors, your electrician can recommend the most efficient options for your specific needs.
Install an energy monitor
Unsure where your electricity goes? Ask your electrician about installing an energy monitor to track how, when, and why you use power. These devices identify which appliances consume the most electricity and calculate costs based on your tariffs. You can even set alerts for exceeding monthly usage limits.
Options include:
- Wireless meters with sensors (track up to 12 months of data)
- Online monitors offering greater accuracy, deeper insights, and solar meter connectivity
Energy monitors help reduce costs and environmental impact through informed usage decisions. All monitoring systems require professional installation by a qualified electrician—never attempt DIY installation.
For energy monitoring consultations and installation, contact Voltora Industries at 1300 799 430.
Change your light bulbs
Lower your electricity costs with a simple, often overlooked change: upgrade your lighting. Replacing bulbs is affordable and delivers immediate savings while reducing environmental impact.
Like appliances, lightbulbs feature Energy Ratings to guide your choices. Energy-efficient options use 25-80% LESS energy than traditional bulbs and last 3-25 times longer.
Traditional incandescents are being phased out in favor of halogen incandescents, compact fluorescent lamps, and LEDs. These all offer greener, more cost-effective illumination.
Five Simple Green Solutions Tips
With all of the options in the market, it can be confusing to find the best green and cost-effective green solutions for your home or business. If you’re unsure where to start, here are five simple tips to make better choices for your electricity bill AND the environment:
- Investigate any rebates available to you for greener solutions such as solar or Energy Rated appliances.
- Compare your options: Energy Rating, price, size and availability.
- Speak with your electrician for their advice on what works for your home or business.
- Do your research on smaller solutions such as light bulbs. What fittings you currently have and whether you can make a simple switch or require new fittings.
- Make a list of priorities from top to bottom, and price each with your electrician.
There you have it! Reducing your environmental impact AND reducing your electricity bill is possible. Your electrician is best placed to assist you in making the right choices for your home and business. Any questions about green solutions? Get in touch with our team today, we’ll gladly answer them!
