What environmental and financial savings can be made using ‘solar’ versus’ electric’ or ‘gas’ hot water systems?

Generally about:

• 1 tonne of CO2 and $250 per year saving compared to reticulated, natural gas
• 1 tonne of CO2 and $500 per year saving compared to bottled LP gas /li>
• 4 tonnes of CO2 and $500 per year saving compared to electric

However this depends on lots of variable factors such as models of systems, the water heating requirements of the household and whether we're talking about LPG or natural gas.

Why gas-boosted solar water heaters?

In promoting the use of best practice to lower greenhouse gas emissions from water heaters, figures show that gas boosted solar water heaters have the lowest greenhouse gas emissions of all common, residential water heaters. Additionally, gas-boosted solar water heaters have no impact on peak electricity demand or on the electricity network.

For detailed information regarding rebates and RECs available for installing Solar Hot Water Systems please review the following:

1. Solar and Heat Pump Rebate Program - Australian Government
2. Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) – Office of Renewable Energy Regulator, Australian Government