About Hielscher Electrical
Getting Started With Solar Storage For Your Home
Welcome to Hielscher Electrical’s Guide to Solar Storage and Batteries for Homes in Cairns.
With over three decades of experience in Far North Queensland, we’re dedicated to helping Cairns homeowners maximise their solar energy investment. Solar batteries offer you control, reliability, and peace of mind, ensuring you make the most of your solar power—even when the sun isn’t shining.
We work with industry-leading technology, tailored for Cairns’ unique environment, so you can enjoy clean, sustainable energy day and night.
Whether you’re new to solar or looking to enhance your existing setup, this guide will provide you with the information you need to make a confident choice for your home and energy future.
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How Solar Batteries Work
How Do Solar Batteries Work?
A solar battery system empowers your home by storing solar energy generated during the day, allowing you to use that stored energy when the sun isn’t shining. This approach reduces your reliance on grid power and gives you control over your home’s energy supply.
The Solar Battery Process:
- Energy Generation: During daylight, your solar panels convert sunlight into electricity. This clean, renewable energy can be used immediately to power your home.
- Battery Storage: Any excess solar energy produced by your panels is directed into a battery. This stored energy is saved for later, ensuring your home has a reserve to draw from during the evening or on overcast days.
- Grid Connection as Backup: When your solar panels or battery don’t meet all your energy needs, the system connects to the grid to ensure your home has a steady power supply. This hybrid setup helps you enjoy a reliable energy solution while minimising grid use and cutting down on electricity costs.
With a well-integrated solar battery system, you’re set up to make the most of Cairns’ abundant sunshine. It’s a smart step toward energy independence, sustainability, and savings.
Mike and Jan Cairns
Cairns, QLDA fantastic job by the team worked so hard and finally cleaned up so well that you would not know that they had been there. Overall I could not be more satisfied with the service I received from every member if the Hielscher Electrical team and would be happy the recommended them to any one looking for a solar system installer.
Energy and Money Saving Solutions
Hielscher Electrical work with Queensland's leading wholesalers and like us, they are committed to delivering the highest quality solar power components.
5 Stars Customer Service
Our customers are our business and that's why Hielscher Electrical and Solar are committed from start to finish.
Solar Storage Components
What Components Make up a solar storage system for my home?
A solar storage system is made up of several key components that work in harmony to capture, store, and manage solar energy for your home. Each element plays a critical role in ensuring you have reliable and efficient access to clean energy, even when the sun isn’t shining.
Key Components of a Solar Storage System
- Solar Panels: Solar panels are the starting point, capturing sunlight and converting it into direct current (DC) electricity. This energy can either be used immediately or stored for later use, providing a foundation for sustainable power in your home.
- Racking: Solar panels are securely attached to your roof using a robust racking system. Quality mounting is crucial to protect both your panels and roof, ensuring long-term durability.
- Hybrid Solar Inverter: The inverter converts the DC electricity generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity, making it usable for household appliances. This essential component manages the flow of energy to ensure efficient use.
- Solar Storage Battery: The battery stores excess solar energy generated during the day. This stored energy can then be used at night or during cloudy days, giving you a reliable source of power regardless of sunlight availability. Many modern solar batteries use lithium-based technologies like Lithium Ferro Phosphate (LFP) for safety, durability, and long life cycles.
- Switchboard: The switchboard directs the energy generated by your system to where it’s needed most. It powers household appliances first, then sends any excess energy to the battery for storage. When the battery is fully charged and extra energy is available, it can be fed back into the grid, often earning you credits on your electricity bill.
- Transfer Switch: The transfer switch automatically disconnects your home from the grid during power outages, allowing the solar storage system to power essential appliances safely without backfeeding electricity to the grid. Once grid power is restored, the transfer switch reconnects your home to the grid, ensuring continuous energy flow.
- Protected Loads Panel (PLP): The Protected Loads Panel, or PLP, is a sub-panel containing critical circuits that need backup power during outages. This typically includes essential appliances like the refrigerator, lights, Wi-Fi router, and any medical or safety equipment. The PLP ensures that only these vital loads draw power from the battery when the grid is down, maximising battery life.
- Remote Off Switch: For safety, the remote off switch provides a quick way to turn off the solar storage system in emergencies. Located near the home’s main electrical shutoff, it’s easy to access for emergency responders.
- Software Controls: The software controls manage the flow and usage of energy in your system. They allow you to set preferences for different modes, such as backup, self-consumption, or time-of-use savings. You can adjust settings based on your energy needs or weather conditions, providing flexibility and optimising battery use.
- Internet Connectivity: Many solar storage systems connect to the internet, allowing remote monitoring and control of the system. This connectivity enables you to track energy production, battery levels, and usage in real time, and receive software updates or diagnostic support if needed.
With these components working together, a solar storage system provides an efficient, resilient, and sustainable way to power your home, reducing reliance on the grid and maximising the benefits of Cairns’ abundant sunshine.
Why Quality Matters
Why quality count's when it comes to solar batteries in Cairns
Choosing a high-quality solar battery for your home in Cairns is a crucial step toward reliable, efficient, and safe energy storage. While budget options may seem attractive upfront, quality components deliver better performance, longevity, and peace of mind. Here’s why investing in a premium solar battery system is essential:
Reliable Performance in Tropical Conditions
Cairns’ climate can be challenging, with high humidity and intense sunlight. Quality solar batteries are designed to withstand these conditions, ensuring your system remains efficient and safe in even the most extreme weather. Inferior batteries can deteriorate quickly, leading to reduced storage capacity and more frequent replacements.
Extended Battery Lifespan
High-quality batteries, often equipped with advanced lithium-ion technology like Lithium Ferro Phosphate (LFP), are designed for durability and have a higher cycle count—meaning they can charge and discharge many more times over their lifespan. Cheaper batteries may degrade sooner, impacting both performance and your return on investment. A quality battery system is built to last, delivering reliable energy for years.
Enhanced Safety Standards
Quality batteries undergo rigorous testing and are manufactured to high safety standards. This is especially important for home storage, where safety issues with cheap or poorly made batteries can lead to potential hazards like overheating or electrical faults. Opting for a reputable battery brand ensures better safety features, reducing risks and keeping your home and family safe.
Greater Efficiency and Power Supply
High-grade solar batteries have higher efficiency ratings, which means more of the energy produced by your solar panels is stored and available when needed. They also typically offer better power ratings, so they can handle larger household appliances without any issues. This efficiency is particularly valuable in Cairns, where you want to capture and store as much solar energy as possible.
Dependable Backup Power During Outages
Quality batteries are more dependable in providing backup power during grid outages. They can sustain power for essential appliances and are often optimised to continue charging from solar panels even when the grid is down. This feature is particularly beneficial in storm-prone regions like Far North Queensland, offering you a continuous energy source when you need it most.
Better Return on Investment (ROI)
Investing in a quality solar battery system pays off over time. Premium components perform better and last longer, meaning fewer repairs and lower replacement costs. With the additional energy savings, reliable backup power, and extended lifespan, a high-quality battery provides a stronger return on your initial investment compared to cheaper alternatives.
At Hielscher Electrical, we prioritise quality in every aspect of your solar battery installation. From selecting industry-leading batteries to ensuring expert installation, we’re committed to providing Cairns homeowners with a system that is built to perform, last, and keep your home powered safely for years to come.
Solar Battery Rebates and Incentives
What Solar Battery Rebates and Incentives Can I Get in Queensland?
What Solar Battery Rebates and Incentives Can I Get in Queensland?
Queensland has offered several incentives over the years to encourage homeowners to adopt solar power and battery storage. While the state’s Battery Booster Program has recently ended, there are still valuable incentives that make solar installations more accessible.
1. Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs)
STCs remain the primary incentive for Cairns homeowners installing solar systems. Provided under the federal government’s Renewable Energy Target, these certificates can significantly reduce the upfront cost of your solar installation.
- How STCs Work: The number of STCs you’re eligible for depends on the size of your solar system and your geographic location. The larger your solar setup, the more certificates you receive.
- STC Value: Like shares, STCs are traded on the open market, so their value can vary. This fluctuation impacts the final cost of your system, so it’s essential to obtain quotes that reflect current STC values.
- Expiry: The STC program is scheduled to phase out by 2031, with the number of certificates decreasing each year. Installing sooner means you’ll benefit more from the remaining incentives.
2. Solar Feed-in Tariffs (FiTs)
Feed-in Tariffs (FiTs) reward homeowners who export excess solar energy back to the grid. While FiT rates have generally decreased in recent years, they still provide an opportunity to earn a return on your solar investment.
- How FiTs Work: In Queensland, most FiTs are net-based. This means you’re paid for any electricity exported to the grid after subtracting your home’s usage.
- FiT Rates: FiT rates vary by energy retailer and can range from 5 to 16 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Choosing a plan with a competitive FiT rate and maximising your own energy use can help you save even more on energy costs.
3. Battery Booster Program (Now Closed)
Queensland’s Battery Booster Program, which provided rebates of up to $4,000 for home battery installations, closed to new applicants on 8 May 2024. Homeowners who received conditional approval before the cutoff date have up to 90 days to install and claim the rebate.
While there’s currently no active subsidy for batteries in Queensland, advances in battery technology and decreasing costs continue to make battery storage an appealing option for energy independence.
Impact on Electricity Bills
Will I Still Pay Electricity Bills with Home Solar Batteries Installed?
Installing solar panels and a home battery can significantly reduce your electricity bills, and in some cases, even eliminate them. However, the extent of your savings depends on how your system is set up, your household’s energy use, and how much of your electricity you can generate and store with solar.
How Solar and Batteries Help Reduce Your Electricity Bills
- Self-Consumption Savings
The more solar energy you use directly in your home (known as self-consumption), the less you need to buy from the grid. Every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of solar energy you use is a kWh you’re not purchasing from your energy retailer. This can lead to substantial savings, especially during daylight hours when your solar system is generating power. - Battery Storage for Nighttime Use
A home battery allows you to store excess solar energy generated during the day for use at night or during cloudy days when your solar panels aren’t producing as much. By using stored energy instead of drawing from the grid, you reduce your reliance on grid power, further lowering your electricity bills. - Feed-in Tariffs (FiTs) for Exported Solar
When your solar panels generate more electricity than you’re using, the surplus can be exported back to the grid, earning you a credit on your electricity bill through a Feed-in Tariff (FiT). While FiT rates vary and are typically lower than the cost of buying electricity, this still provides an additional way to offset your electricity expenses.
Will a Battery System Eliminate My Electricity Bill?
In some cases, a well-sized solar and battery system can almost eliminate electricity bills, especially for homes with high solar production and moderate energy use. However, a few factors can influence whether you’ll still see an electricity bill:
- Higher Energy Use or Low Sunlight: If your energy use exceeds what your system can generate and store, or if there are prolonged periods of low sunlight, you may still need to draw from the grid.
- Daily Supply Charges: Most electricity retailers include a daily supply charge on your bill, even if you don’t use any grid power. While batteries help reduce energy usage costs, this fixed charge may still appear.
- Backup Use During Extended Power Outages: For homes with backup battery systems, extended power outages may require additional energy from the grid if solar and battery storage alone aren’t enough.
Maximising Savings with Time-of-Use Tariffs
With a battery, homeowners on a time-of-use tariff can charge their battery during off-peak times (when rates are lower) and discharge it during peak times to avoid high electricity prices. This approach can maximise your bill savings, particularly in areas where electricity costs vary based on the time of day.
By investing in a quality solar and battery system, Cairns homeowners can achieve significant, long-term savings on their energy bills and gain control over their energy use. To find out more about reducing your electricity costs with solar and battery storage, contact Hielscher Electrical today.
13kWh Solar Battery
Why is a 13kWh Home Solar Battery so Popular in Cairns?
The 13kWh solar battery has become a top choice for Cairns homeowners looking to increase their energy savings and reduce their reliance on grid power. This battery size is ideal for capturing and storing the abundant solar energy produced in Cairns, allowing households to enjoy clean, cost-effective power even after the sun goes down.
Key Reasons for the Popularity of a 13kWh Battery in Cairns
- Optimises Solar Self-Consumption
In Cairns, daytime solar generation is often high, and a 13kWh battery provides the capacity needed to store excess energy generated during the day. Instead of exporting surplus solar power to the grid at low rates (around 5 cents per kWh), homeowners can store it for use during the evening when grid electricity rates can reach up to 40 cents per kWh. This setup maximises savings by enabling households to use more of their own solar power. - Reduces Reliance on Grid Power
With a 13kWh battery, homeowners can store enough energy to cover a significant portion of their night-time electricity needs. This is particularly valuable for homes that use around 30% of their energy during the day and 70% at night. By increasing self-consumption, the battery reduces the need to draw expensive power from the grid during peak evening hours, helping to keep electricity bills low. - Ideal for Medium-Sized Homes
A 13kWh battery is well-suited for medium-sized homes with a solar system in the range of 5-6kW. This combination balances energy generation and storage capacity, ensuring that most of the solar power produced by the system is used efficiently to power the home. For typical Cairns households, this setup provides reliable coverage for evening and night-time usage, making the battery a practical and cost-effective choice. - Significant Annual Savings
By using stored solar energy during peak periods, homeowners can save on the higher electricity rates charged at night. For example, powering a home’s night-time use with a 13kWh battery could save up to $5.20 per day, adding up to nearly $1,900 in annual savings. This makes a 13kWh battery an attractive investment for those seeking to offset rising energy costs and achieve long-term savings. - Perfect for Cairns’ Sunny Climate
Cairns’ high solar exposure means homes can generate substantial excess energy daily. A 13kWh battery ensures this energy is captured and stored efficiently, so households can continue to enjoy solar-powered energy even during the evening. For homeowners looking to make the most of Cairns’ sunshine, a 13kWh battery offers a balanced capacity that fits seamlessly into a home’s energy needs.
A 13kWh battery is an excellent option for Cairns residents aiming to boost their energy independence, maximise savings, and take advantage of the region’s sunny climate. For guidance on selecting the right battery for your home, reach out to Hielscher Electrical for personalised advice and expert installation.
Speak to a local expert
Hielscher Electrical is your trusted local solar expert, with offices in Cairns, Port Douglas, the Tablelands, and Innisfail. Let us help you find the perfect solar solution tailored to your home or business. Our team will analyse your electricity bills and recommend the most efficient and cost-effective system for your needs.
Hielscher's Solar Storage Service
How Does Hielscher Electrical's Solar Storage Service Work?
At Hielscher Electrical, our solar storage service is designed to provide Cairns homeowners with a smooth, personalised journey towards energy independence. From tailored system design to final installation, we handle every step to ensure a high-quality solar battery solution that maximises your energy savings.
Step One: Consultation and Energy Assessment
Our process begins with a detailed onsite assessment conducted by a Hielscher Electrical solar consultant. During this evaluation, we’ll review your existing solar system (if applicable), energy usage patterns, and battery storage needs. This assessment helps us determine the ideal battery size and configuration to suit your home’s unique requirements, ensuring you get the most out of your solar investment.
Step Two: Custom Solar Storage Proposal
After the initial consultation, our team designs a custom solar storage solution tailored to your energy goals. We’ll provide a proposal that outlines the recommended battery system, expected performance, and an estimate of how much it can reduce your reliance on the grid. This transparent proposal includes a full cost breakdown and clear information on potential savings, allowing you to make an informed decision.
Step Three: Contract and Approval Process
When you’re ready to proceed, we’ll guide you through the contract and approval process. Our team will handle the necessary paperwork, including permits and coordination with Ergon Energy, to ensure a seamless experience. Once approved, we’ll move forward with ordering your battery and preparing for installation.
Step Four: Professional Installation and Setup
Our licensed electricians will expertly install the battery system, integrating it with your existing solar setup and ensuring all components function smoothly. We take care of all technical requirements, including connecting your system to the inverter and setting up software controls that allow you to monitor and manage your battery’s performance.
Step Five: System Walkthrough and Support
After installation, our project manager will provide a comprehensive walkthrough of your new solar storage system. We’ll demonstrate how to monitor battery usage, manage settings, and maximise your energy savings. Should you have any questions or need assistance, our team remains available to support you with ongoing maintenance and after-sales care.
At Hielscher Electrical, we’re committed to delivering a solar storage solution that fits your needs, enhances your energy independence, and brings lasting savings. From the first consultation to the final system check, we ensure every detail is taken care of so you can enjoy reliable, efficient solar power storage for years to come.
Onsite Solar Battery Quotes
Why Does Hielscher Electrical Insist on Doing an On-site Assessment for a Solar Storage Quote?
At Hielscher Electrical, our commitment to quality and precision begins with a thorough on-site assessment. Unlike generic quotes, an on-site assessment allows us to tailor your solar storage system to your home’s unique needs and ensure optimal performance. Here’s why this step is essential:
1. Tailored System Design
A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work with solar storage. By assessing your property in person, we can evaluate your home’s specific energy requirements, roof configuration, and existing solar setup to design a customised battery solution. This hands-on approach ensures your system is perfectly sized and optimally located for maximum efficiency.
2. Accurate Site Measurements and Shading Analysis
During an on-site assessment, our consultant can measure your roof area and assess shading from nearby trees, buildings, or structures. This precise shading analysis is essential for calculating your solar system’s expected energy output and ensuring your battery has enough stored energy to meet your evening and night-time needs. A satellite view simply can’t replace the accuracy of this on-site evaluation.
3. Switchboard and Electrical System Inspection
Our team will examine your switchboard to determine if upgrades are necessary to support the added load of a battery system. We also assess the electrical wiring and cabling routes, ensuring that all components are properly integrated and installed to minimise any disruptions to your home. Identifying these needs upfront helps prevent unexpected costs or delays during installation.
4. Optimal Location for Battery Installation
Battery location is crucial for safety, efficiency, and longevity. Our on-site assessment allows us to determine the best location for your battery—out of direct sunlight and in compliance with all safety regulations. We also make sure there’s ample space for potential future additions, such as expanding your battery capacity or adding an electric vehicle charger.
5. Clear and Transparent Quote
An in-person assessment allows us to provide you with a clear and accurate quote, free from unexpected fees or conditional terms. With a precise understanding of your property’s requirements, we can confidently outline costs, expected performance, and potential savings, giving you a realistic view of the investment and benefits.
6. Long-term Satisfaction and Peace of Mind
Ultimately, our goal is to deliver a solar storage solution that you’re satisfied with for years to come. Meeting with you in person lets us address any questions, explain how your system will operate, and ensure you’re comfortable with the setup and expected results. This level of service fosters trust, reliability, and long-term confidence in your solar storage system.
At Hielscher Electrical, we believe an on-site assessment is essential for delivering a solar storage solution that truly meets your needs. It’s an investment in the quality and performance of your system, ensuring you get the best possible outcome and long-term energy savings.
Solar Panels
Mounting Rail
Mounting Feet
What You Get With Hielscher
What Do I Get When I Buy Solar Batteries through Hielscher Electrical?
When you invest in solar battery storage with Hielscher Electrical, you’re choosing a trusted partner dedicated to providing a top-quality, tailored solution for your energy needs. Here’s what you can expect when you choose us for your solar battery installation:
Customised Battery Solutions
We recognise that every home’s energy usage is unique. Our team will assess your specific requirements and design a battery system that maximises your solar savings and meets your energy needs. Whether you’re aiming to reduce grid reliance, have reliable backup power, or optimise energy use for peak times, we’ll recommend the best solution for your lifestyle and budget.
Fixed-Price, On-site Quote
Our service starts with a detailed on-site assessment, followed by a fixed-price quote. This approach ensures there are no hidden costs or surprises—just a clear, transparent quote that reflects the unique needs of your home.
Premium-Quality Batteries and Components
At Hielscher Electrical, we only use high-performance solar batteries and components from trusted brands. Our batteries are designed for durability, safety, and efficiency, with advanced lithium-ion technology and industry-leading warranties. You can expect:
- Reliable, Long-Lasting Batteries: High-quality lithium-ion batteries with excellent cycle life and efficiency, optimised for Cairns’ climate.
- Advanced Inverters and Monitoring Options: Options for inverters that seamlessly integrate with your battery system, allowing for easy monitoring and management of your stored energy.
- Secure, Weather-Resistant Mounting: Professionally installed, robust mounting solutions that keep your battery system protected in all weather conditions.
Expert Installation by SAA-Accredited Technicians
Your battery system will be installed by our team of licensed, SAA-accredited electricians, who adhere to the highest standards of quality and safety. From system integration to final setup, we ensure your battery system functions optimally and integrates smoothly with your existing solar setup. Our project managers coordinate every detail, so you enjoy a seamless installation experience.
Comprehensive After-Sales Support
Our support doesn’t end at installation. Hielscher Electrical offers ongoing support from our local Cairns team, including assistance with monitoring, maintenance, and troubleshooting. With a dedicated after-sales service, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that we’re always available to help you make the most of your investment.
Industry-Leading Warranties and Long-Term Security
We stand by the quality of our systems with comprehensive warranties on parts and workmanship. Our commitment to using only the best products ensures that your solar battery system will perform reliably over the years, giving you the confidence and security you deserve.
Best Cairns Local Solar Expertise and Trust
With a strong reputation in Cairns, Hielscher Electrical is trusted by the community, and over 30% of our customers come to us through referrals. Our dedication to quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction has made us a preferred provider for solar and battery solutions in the region.
When you choose Hielscher Electrical for your solar battery needs, you’re choosing a local partner committed to delivering an energy solution tailored to your home, backed by the expertise and support you can rely on.
What Our Customers Say
What Cairns Homeowners Say
About Hielscher Electrical and Solar Storage?
Cairns, QLD
Great service all round. From Caroline with the initial call to Cheyenne & Tarnee in the office to Troy, Harry and the boys doing the install. Quick and clean installation and thorough explanation of every aspect of it. Highly recommended!
Cairns, QLD
Just had solar panels installed on my home, They did an incredible job I’m very happy with them. I would recommend them to anyone looking for solar installations the staff were very knowledgeable, professional and polite (also a local company 👍). Explained everything in detail so there’s no confusion and even helped set up a water heater install at the same time. Thank you team.
Cairns, QLD
Came highly recommended to us, and I would also recommend Hielscher. From booking in the quote we had great customer service, and it was the owner who came and quoted and spent a lot of time walking us through the system. The turnaround time from confirmation to installation was good, and the installers were neat, and ensured we were happy with location of inverter and layout of panels. After sale service has also been great.
Cairns, QLD
System was competitive and found the process easy to understand. The team were very friendly and the system was delivered 2 weeks early. Have no problem recommending this company to anybody who is thinking of installing a solar system.
Cairns, QLD
Professional, honest and efficient. Hielscher Electrical carefully and clearly stepped us through our solar power options. The entire installation of a very slick battery ready solar system was done in half a day. Highly recommend these guys.
Cairns, QLD
The complete process from start to finish was done promptly and professionally and communication was excellent. I now have very happy tenants reaping the benefits and they are able to monitor their usage via the app and also a very satisfied owner who has now added additional value to his investment property.
Solar Battery Warranties
What Can Go Wrong With Residential Solar Storage and Batteries?
While solar storage systems provide many benefits, potential issues can arise without the right planning, installation, and maintenance. Here’s a look at the most common issues, grouped into three main categories: Sizing and Compatibility, Installation and Quality, and Maintenance and Longevity.
1. Sizing and Compatibility
Choosing the right battery size and ensuring compatibility with your existing solar setup are crucial to maximising your system’s efficiency and return on investment.
- Incorrect Battery Sizing: Batteries that are too small may not cover your energy needs during evening hours, while oversized batteries can be unnecessarily costly without added benefits. The correct size will depend on your unique energy usage, and we recommend a detailed assessment to ensure accurate sizing.
- Incompatibility with Existing Solar Systems: Not all batteries work with every solar system. Inverters and solar panels must be compatible with the chosen battery to avoid energy losses or electrical imbalances. Our team performs rigorous checks to ensure that your new battery integrates seamlessly with your solar system.
- Misjudging Future Energy Needs: Lifestyle changes, such as adding an electric vehicle or increasing household members, can lead to higher energy needs. A battery sized without future needs in mind may not be able to keep up. Hielscher Electrical helps you plan for potential energy increases, ensuring your system can scale as needed.
2. Installation and Quality
The quality of your battery, components, and installation directly affects the performance, safety, and longevity of your solar storage system.
- Poor Installation Practices: Improperly installed batteries can suffer from reduced efficiency, safety risks, and even system failures. Correct connections, secure mounting, and sufficient ventilation are essential to long-term functionality. Hielscher Electrical’s CEC-accredited electricians follow strict installation standards to ensure optimal performance and safety.
- Low-Quality Batteries and Components: Cheap or inferior components may degrade more quickly, require frequent replacements, and lack the safety features of high-quality products. We use only top-tier batteries and inverters designed to withstand Cairns’ climate, providing reliable performance and durability.
- Temperature Sensitivity: Batteries are vulnerable to temperature extremes. Without proper placement, high heat can degrade battery health, while extreme cold reduces capacity. Our installation team chooses optimal locations to protect your battery from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations, extending its lifespan.
3. Maintenance and Longevity
Regular maintenance is essential to keeping your solar storage system in top condition and ensuring long-term savings. Without the right upkeep, performance and efficiency can decline over time.
- Neglecting Routine Maintenance: Dust, debris, and small faults can accumulate, impacting battery performance. Regular inspections are recommended to prevent issues before they escalate. Hielscher Electrical offers ongoing maintenance services to monitor and optimise your system’s health.
- Charging Errors: Overcharging or undercharging can harm battery health, reducing capacity and lifespan. Leaving a battery fully discharged or charged for prolonged periods affects its performance. Our systems are set up with smart charging features to ensure optimal charging cycles.
- Ignoring Warranty Support: Many owners overlook or misunderstand their battery warranty terms, which can lead to unprotected repairs or replacements. Attempting unauthorised fixes can void the warranty. We guide you through your warranty terms and assist with any claims, ensuring you get the full benefit of your coverage.
At Hielscher Electrical, we prioritise quality, compatibility, and ongoing support to prevent these issues and maximise your solar storage investment. With expert guidance and a commitment to excellence, we ensure your solar battery system delivers lasting value and reliable performance.
Hielscher's Commitment
We've Installed over 3,000 Solar Energy Systems in Cairns
At Hielscher Electrical, our dedication to quality and customer satisfaction has established us as one of the most trusted solar energy providers in Cairns. With over 3,000 successful solar installations, we’ve empowered thousands of homeowners and businesses to harness the power of the sun, reduce their energy bills, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
The Story Behind Hielscher Electrical
Founded over a decade ago, Hielscher Electrical began as a small, locally-focused business with a passion for delivering reliable, high-quality solar solutions. Today, we’ve grown into a leading solar energy provider across Queensland, known for our commitment to excellence, after-sales service, and competitive pricing. Our reputation has been built on integrity, quality, and the trust we’ve earned from our community.
Through partnerships with top-tier brands like LG, SunPower, Jinko, Longi, Canadian Solar, Trina, and Qcells, we provide our customers with the most advanced technology on the market. Each product is carefully selected to ensure long-term performance, durability, and reliability in Queensland’s climate.
Our Mission and Vision
Our mission is straightforward: to provide solar energy solutions that exceed our customers’ expectations. We believe in making solar energy accessible, affordable, and valuable for every customer. Our goal is to help create a sustainable future—one installation at a time.
Our vision is to continue as the leading solar provider in Cairns, delivering top-quality systems and a commitment to 100% customer satisfaction. We strive to empower our clients with innovative, cost-effective solutions that give them control over their energy usage and help them achieve meaningful savings.
Brenton's Brand Recommendations
Brenton Hielscher's Recommended Solar Brands
At Hielscher Electrical, we take pride in offering only the best solar panels and inverters available. Our approach to selecting these products is rooted in rigorous testing and real-world experience, ensuring that our customers receive systems that are not only high-performing but also reliable for the long term.
How We Choose The Best Solar Panels And Inverters
In the early days of my journey in the solar industry, I quickly realized that the “best” solar products were often those with the most aggressive marketing, not necessarily the highest quality. To cut through the noise, I began purchasing and testing solar products myself, conducting real-world evaluations on my own warehouse roof. This hands-on approach led me to gain invaluable insights directly from the source, visiting solar panel and inverter factories, and building relationships with engineers and other installers across Australia.
Key Learnings About Solar Panels and Inverters
Here’s what I’ve learned over the years:
- Don’t Judge by Price Alone: A higher price tag doesn’t always mean better quality. I evaluate each container of solar panels based on build quality, long-term performance, and the manufacturer’s reputation for honoring warranties. This ensures that the panels we install are consistent in their reliability and efficiency.
- Not All Inverters Are Equal: Through extensive experience—installing over 5,000 Fronius inverters, 130 SolarEdge systems, and 171 Sungrow inverters—I’ve observed that Fronius inverters are the most reliable, with far fewer failures compared to others. Even the best inverters, like Fronius, can occasionally fail, which is why strong after-sales support is crucial.
Solar Panels
All our solar packages feature Tier 1 solar panels, sourced from the top 5 solar manufacturers globally. These panels are recognized for their high quality, excellent performance warranties, and their widespread use in major solar installations worldwide. Our selection process includes:
- Visual Inspections: We thoroughly inspect the surface, frame, junction box, and cables of each panel to ensure there are no defects that could impact performance.
- Performance Testing: We conduct Open-Circuit Voltage and Short-Circuit Current tests to measure each panel’s output and verify it meets expected standards.
- Environmental Considerations: We factor in irradiance levels, temperature effects, and potential shading or dirt accumulation to ensure the panels will perform optimally under real-world conditions.
Inverters
For inverters, we rely on Fronius as our top choice due to its proven reliability and excellent support. We also offer Sungrow and SolarEdge inverters, though we recommend these based on specific needs and circumstances.
The Impact of Shade and Dirt
We also consider the impact of shade and dirt on solar panel efficiency. Shade from nearby trees or buildings can significantly reduce energy output, so we conduct a thorough shade analysis as part of our site assessment. Dirt and debris can also affect performance, which is why we advise regular cleaning and maintenance according to warranty guidelines to keep your panels operating at peak efficiency.
Trusted Solar Suppliers
We’ve built strong partnerships with some of the most reputable solar brands in the industry. This ensures that every component of your solar system—from panels to inverters to mounting gear—is of the highest quality. Our careful selection process and commitment to excellence mean that you can trust your solar investment will perform reliably for years to come.
When you choose Hielscher Electrical, you’re not just getting a solar power system; you’re getting a solution that’s been tested, refined, and backed by years of hands-on experience and industry knowledge.
Speak to a local expert
Hielscher Electrical is your trusted local solar expert, with offices in Cairns, Port Douglas, the Tablelands, and Innisfail. Let us help you find the perfect solar solution tailored to your home or business. Our team will analyse your electricity bills and recommend the most efficient and cost-effective system for your needs.
