Solar For a Greener Strata

The latest strata schemes for Western Australia have seen positive changes to solar plans for strata developments. The NSW government passed the legislation in 2021, making installing renewable energy in strata complexes easier. With these amendments in place, strata schemes now only have to pass a voter majority of 50% to implement instead of the previous threshold of 75%. 

Also read: WA’s New Strata Laws – What you need to know

Why Strata Properties for Solar?

There are many reasons why strata properties are suitable for solar power in WA.

• Solar panels can be installed on rooftops, meaning they don’t take up valuable space on the ground. As strata properties tend to have sizable communal rooftop areas, they are ideal for solar power installation.
• Installing solar panels on a strata property can provide a significant financial return for the strata owners as it reduces shared electricity costs and generates income from selling excess electricity to the grid.
• Installing solar panels on a strata property reduces the overall carbon footprint of the building and its occupants.

The Challenges Facing Solar for Strata

Although solar power provides many benefits for strata developments, it doesn’t come without challenges. 

One challenge is that solar systems require a higher initial investment than traditional energy sources. Additionally, it can be a challenge to maintain and repair the panels, especially when mounted on the roof of a strata development. Additional installation costs are eminent due to the complexity of the process. 

Some strata developments may have restrictive covenants that prohibit or limit the installation of solar panels. 

Different Options for Installing Solar Panels On Strata Buildings

1. Solar for sole use in common areas

Each strata building has its own metre for operating communal equipment like elevators and lights. The electricity bills are paid for from the property levies shared by all occupants. Everyone benefits from this option as it offers reduced strata bills. 

2. Solar for sole use by individual lots

Where unit owners are more interested in solar to benefit themselves or their tenants, then it makes sense to have a solar system installed just for your unit. However, roof allocation is often a challenge here.

3. Solar shared between participating apartments

This solution is essentially a “smart” diverter that enables solar energy from a single rooftop solar system to be shared between multiple units within the same building. The idea is to deliver the same amount of energy to each unit but supply it only when it’s needed by each unit. 

In addition, this technology contains energy monitoring software, so you can track how much electricity you’re using and when solar energy is available. As this is a relatively new and complicated approach, there currently aren’t many companies in Australia with the technology to deliver it. 

Next Steps for Strata Schemes

For strata schemes to fully realise the potential of solar power, developing a transparent and efficient system for collecting data on energy usage is essential. This data can determine the size and layout of the solar array and the appropriate mix of solar panels and batteries. Establishing a clear process for decision-making regarding solar power investment and implementation is also necessary. 

​​Are you looking for a qualified strata management company in Perth? Home 2 Home provides strata management services to ensure that your property complies with all the necessary solar regulations in WA. Contact us for more information.