I took advantage of solar right at the start of the rollout when they were offering 48 cents for the solar feed in tariffs. Also installed solar hot-water with the heating element (for days when the sun is not shining) running on a T2 supply (some upfront cost with the additional meter). Since the solar install never had to pay for electricity as my account is in credit. Perhaps in terms of keeping the place cool during summer other than air con / fans the device that helps significantly is an Edmonds Odyssey ventilation system (rebadged as Bradford)(costs more than a air-con so a bit expensive). It brings in the colder air when the temp outside is cooler than inside using a themostat / roof mounted electric fan / temp sensors. The reverse in winter. Bradford Odyssey The bay breezes also helps as we are in the Qld. I found out about the ventillation system here which details all of the tips & tricks used to build a 8 star house: CSR House Next step looking for a plug-in hybrid car.
