Is WA the real sunshine state?

Western Australia (WA) has always been known for its stunning beaches, unique landscapes, and laid-back lifestyle. However, did you know that WA is also Australia's unofficial "sunshine state"? Despite what you may have thought, WA has more daily hours of sunshine than Queensland, which is commonly referred to as The Sunshine State.  

This is great news for solar homeowners and businesses, who reap the benefits of living in a state bathed in sunshine! Those with a solar battery can multiply the benefits, by storing that sunshine for use in the evenings and during blackouts!  

What makes WA the sunshine state? 

Perth is Australia's sunniest capital, averaging 8.8 hours of sunshine per day. Darwin ranks second with 8.5 hours, and Brisbane comes in at 8.2 hours per day. WA's Pilbara region enjoys the sunniest climate in the country, being the only area to receive over 10 hours of sunshine per day on average. This may not seem like a significant difference, but over time, it adds up! 

It also means that WA receives the most 'peak sun hours', which is great news for solar generation (and cost savings!). 

Peak sun hours and solar generation 

Peak sun hours refer to the hours of the day when sunlight is strong enough for solar panels to produce electricity at their maximum capacity. These hours are different from the total number of daylight hours in a day, which includes periods when the sun is low on the horizon and its rays are not as strong. 

For example, if a solar panel receives 1000 watts of sunlight per square metre during peak sun hours, it may only receive 200 watts per square metre during non-peak sun hours. This means that having longer peak sun hours can significantly increase the amount of energy generated by solar panels. Of course, having the right orientation and cleaning your panels (if required) will help you make the most of the sun’s rays. 

To be effective, solar panels require at least four peak sun hours per day. As an example, Perth receives an average of 5.5 peak sun hours per day. Even in winter, most of WA receives enough peak sun hours to keep solar panels generating. 

In WA, with its abundance of sunshine, a Plico solar + battery solution can help you take advantage of longer peak sun hours to generate more energy and reduce your reliance on grid power. This not only helps you save money on energy bills but also contributes to a cleaner environment by reducing carbon emissions. 

Why this matters for homeowners 

WA's status as the sunshine state is great news if you are considering installing a solar + battery solution. Here’s why: 

• Significant cost savings: With a Plico solar + battery solution, you can generate your own electricity and significantly reduce your reliance on the grid. Not only this, but your battery allows excess energy to be stored and used at night or during blackouts... This can lead to substantial cost savings on electricity bills. 
• Greater energy independence: By generating and storing your own energy, you can achieve greater energy independence and reduce vulnerability to blackouts or energy price increases. 
  
• Environmental sustainability: Solar energy is a clean, renewable source of energy that produces no harmful emissions. By installing a solar + battery solution, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint. 
  
• Increased home value: Homes with solar + battery solutions (and other eco upgrades) are highly desirable among buyers and can command higher resale values. So not only will you enjoy the benefits of reduced electricity bills but also increase the value of your home.
• WA's abundance of sunshine makes it an ideal location if you're looking to invest in a solar + battery solution. You can enjoy significant cost savings, achieve greater energy independence, reduce your carbon footprint, and potentially increase the value of your home.  
  
   

Proudly West Australian, Plico’s mission is to make solar + battery solutions as affordable as possible for everyone. Our unique offering includes solar + battery, 10 years of ongoing support and no big upfront cost - all for one low weekly fee. If you’d like to learn more about finding the system that is right for you, talk to one of our switched-on team by calling 1300 175 426. 

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