Frequently asked questions
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Frequently asked questions
Is solar power reliable?
Yes, solar power is generally very reliable and provides consistent, renewable energy as long as the sun keeps shining. However, its reliability is dependent on factors like weather, location, and system quality. In regions with frequent cloud cover or without good battery storage, reliability can be reduced.
Overall, when properly designed, installed and maintained, solar power is a highly dependable and sustainable energy source. With continuous development in technology, solar panels last 25–30 years with minimal maintenance, and advances in battery storage allow for constant power even during night time or cloudy days.
Are solar powered facilities suitable for me?
If you are currently using diesel generators to power your facilities, especially in remote areas, then most definitely. At locations where mains power is available, even though our solar facilities will provide benefits of renewable energy and no running cost, traditional buildings would be the most cost effective option.
Due to the higher initial build cost associated with the included solar equipment, the length of time to realise any return on investment does not make it financially beneficial. Most of the Sero Global range has the option to be supplied as mains powered, so you can still capitalise on all the other innovative benefits of our designs.
Is solar powered equipment really cheaper to operate?
In most cases yes, but especially when compared to diesel powered equipment operating over an extended period of time. There are a number of factors that contribute to the overall reduction and savings achieved through using solar power.
Operating costs: After the initial purchase and installation of solar-powered equipment, the actual “fuel” — sunlight — is free. So day-to-day running costs are significantly lower compared to equipment that relies on diesel/gas generated electricity or even grid power.
Maintenance: Solar equipment has very few if any moving parts compared to diesel or traditional electric power generation, which means very minimal maintenance and breakdowns. Solar panels do require cleaning occasionally however this is typically an inexpensive and unskilled process.
Upfront costs: This is where people sometimes hesitate. Solar equipment is usually a higher investment initially because you’re paying for the panels, batteries, and inverter tech upfront. Obviously the longer the usage period the greater the savings, however where the only alternative is reliance on diesel power, the savings can very quickly outweigh the initial higher investment.
Longevity: Good quality solar equipment can provide maintenance free operation for 15–25 years. All solar panels used on Sero Global products have minimum 25 year replacement warranty and batteries have 10 year warranty. Often the solar power components outlast the service life of the equipment itself.
Does solar power require ongoing maintenance?
Solar power requires very minimal ongoing maintenance, which is one of its biggest advantages. Solar panels are built to withstand harsh weather and can operate efficiently for 25–30 years with very little upkeep and lithium-ion batteries are basically maintenance free. However, a few routine tasks can help keep the system running at peak performance.
Cleaning the panels: Dust, dirt, bird droppings can build up on solar panels over time blocking sunlight and lowering their efficiency. Mostly panels only require cleaning once or twice a year but will require regularly in high dust environments.
Checking the system: We recommend a 6 – 12 month routine inspection of the panels, wiring, and mounts to make sure nothing is loose, cracked, or damaged, especially after storms.
Sero Global offers a scheduled maintenance service by specialised technicians to ensure your systems are kept in optimal performance.
Monitoring performance: All solar systems on our products either come with remote monitoring as standard or can be added as an option. This can be accessed from any location to show you how much energy you’re system is producing, overall performance and fault alerts. If you notice a sudden drop, it could mean something needs checking or repairing.
What if my operations run 24hrs a day. Can I use solar for night shifts?
Yes you can. For equipment or facilities that are required for use 24 hours a day, our solar powered products are specifically designed using engineered solar panel and battery storage systems to continue operating through the night when there is no sunlight. During the day the power from the solar panels produce sufficient output to power both the equipment and charge the batteries at the same time. At night the batteries take over and continue powering the equipment. Sero products incorporate enough battery storage to provide a 72 hour redundancy meaning it remains operational even with consecutive days of low sunlight hours.
What if the solar power stops working?
In the rare occasion the solar system stops producing power, the first step is to check for any obvious issues, damaged panels, wiring etc. Most of our products are equipped with external power inlet point as standard. This allows for either permanent installation of backup generator or quick connection of temporary power source whilst repairs are carried out.
Can SERO Global provide custom solutions for unique project requirements?
Yes all of our standard products can be customised within the parameters of the physical design to provide you the best possible solution. Overall size of power systems can be scaled up or down based on specific requirements and in the facilities range, internal layouts can all be customised to provide optimal functionality.
As all our products are fully designed and manufactured in-house by Sero Global this allows our team the flexibility to work with you to achieve the best outcome for your unique requirement.
Does Sero Global offer maintenance or ongoing service support?
Yes we have your back. Sero Global has a dedicated service and technical support team to provide 24hr over the phone assistance or onsite support. We also offer ongoing scheduled servicing by our specialised technicians, to ensure your systems are kept operational and in optimal performance year after year.
What are the key benefits of your modular facilities?
Although there are many, one of the most significant features of Sero Global products is they are all specifically designed to operate completely standalone and self sufficiently. This means they are a fully functioning, site ready, module that can be utilized as soon as it is delivered and placed in position. This also enables them to be easily repositioned to other locations as needed and are instantly re-operational.
A further major benefit of our modular facilities buildings is they 100% solar powered. Being fully self sufficient allows them to operate anywhere, provided there is around 4 hours of peak sunlight per day, without the reliance on carbon fuelled power sources. This not only has the benefit of emission free power, but also rewards operators with significant running cost savings for years.
Another standout feature is our patented design of combining required services of solar power, potable water, and waste water treatment all in one compact modular building. This unique design provides all the essential site services of air-conditioned office, crib room and toilets, in a single modular that is easily transportable and ready to use in any location.
How long does it take to design, build, and deliver a solution?
Good question, but as you would understand this varies greatly depending on project size, quantity and level of customisation required. However as a guide typically any products with a building size of 6.0m x 3.0m and larger is around 10 -14 weeks and all smaller equipment when not stocked within 4 – 6 weeks. However if you have specific lead times to meet, let us know, our team will work through the schedule with you to ensure the best outcome possible.
Do you offer installation for your products?
Yes Sero Global can offer complete installation and commissioning of all products. Our experienced team will engage and work with you across all aspects of the project from delivery through to commissioning and final hand over to provide a full seamless turnkey solution.
How do I get a quote or consultation for my project?
Getting it touch is easy. You can either call to just have a chat or reach out to us on the contact page and we’ll be sure to respond promptly, and no you won’t be automatically added to any marketing lists. For more complex projects it is usually beneficial to arrange a consultation with the Sero projects team and we will go through all your exact requirements and expectations to help us determine and advise on the most beneficial solution to you. All enquiries or quotes are completely obligation free. 1300 033 066 info@seroglobal.com.au
