Summation of Supplies – Why This Is the Defect Nobody Told You About

Summation of Supplies – Why This Is the Defect Nobody Told You About

Summation of Supplies – Why This Is the Defect Nobody Told You AboutPat Southwell
Published on: 02/09/2026

Summation of supplies is one of the most misunderstood topics in modern solar and battery installations—and Pat Southwell admits it wasn't something he immediately understood either. In this honest and practical breakdown, he explains why it's becoming a major compliance issue, the simple four-step process he now uses on every job, and the key mistake that leads to most defects.

Compliance & Standards
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Battery Rebate Safety: These Key Tests Are Essential

Battery Rebate Safety: These Key Tests Are Essential

Battery Rebate Safety: These Key Tests Are EssentialPat Southwell
Published on: 02/09/2026

With the launch of the Federal Government's Cheaper Home Batteries Rebate Scheme, we're about to see a serious uptick in grid-connected battery installations across Australia — and authorities will be ramping up inspections to make sure these are done safely. Here's two key tests installers must undertake on new systems.

Battery Systems
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Time's Up for Victoria's 66c Feed-In-Tariff: What You Need To Know

Time's Up for Victoria's 66c Feed-In-Tariff: What You Need To Know

Time's Up for Victoria's 66c Feed-In-Tariff: What You Need To KnowPat Southwell
Published on: 02/09/2026

Victoria's Premium Feed-in Tariff (PFiT), once offering a hefty 66 cents per kilowatt-hour for excess solar power generated by systems installed between late 2009 and the end of 2011, is coming to an end.

Industry News
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From Wild West to Safe & Sound: The Evolution of Australian Solar

From Wild West to Safe & Sound: The Evolution of Australian Solar

From Wild West to Safe & Sound: The Evolution of Australian SolarPat Southwell
Published on: 02/09/2026

This article is for anyone who feels nostalgic about the early days of solar. Whether you own an old system or are an installer working on one, you might be thinking about how to maintain or upgrade it. We'll look back at the past and see how much has changed.

Industry News
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Australian Solar Standards, Regulations, Rules & Guidelines Explained

Australian Solar Standards, Regulations, Rules & Guidelines Explained

Australian Solar Standards, Regulations, Rules & Guidelines ExplainedPat Southwell
Published on: 02/09/2026

Whenever we discuss new rules or solar standards on the SolarQuotes blog, we invariably get comments asking if these rules apply to the commenter's situation. This blog explains the hierarchy of national standards, state regulations, DNSP rules and SAA guidelines.

Compliance & Standards
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What to Expect from Your Solar Inspector

What to Expect from Your Solar Inspector

What to Expect from Your Solar InspectorPat Southwell
Published on: 02/09/2026

Hi there! I'm Pat Southwell, and I've been a Licensed Electrical Inspector (LEI) in Victoria for nearly three years. If you're a Victorian reader, you're likely aware that all solar installations in our state are inspected.

Inspections
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