SOLAR SOLUTIONS NOT ADDRESSING THE WHOLE STORY
Many schools are actively looking for ways to reduce their electricity expenses. When exploring options, are often inundated with messaging that rooftop solar as the lowest-cost solution.
A deep dive into the data tells a different story. For over two years, Change Energy has been researching the unique energy profiles of schools across Western Australia.
Solar does reduce grid usage during daylight hours, however it is displacing renewable energy from the grid, which can be supplied at a lower cost. this only addresses a portion of the overall bill—and often leaves other major cost components untouched.
Rooftop solar does nothing to address the significant costs that ‘fixed charges’ Network Charge and Capacity Charges, recognising these make up over 30% of a schools electricity bill.
In fact, without the right supporting strategies, rooftop solar can sometimes result in a cost increase to the fixed charges.
What schools really need is an, integrated energy strategy—that addresses both energy costs and fixed costs, to unlock real, long-term savings.
Change Energy’s 2-years deep dive into understanding school energy usage has allowed us to design tailored solution that delivers cost savings in both energy and fixed costs.
Why Solar Isn’t Enough
While solar reduces energy bills during daylight hours, it often falls short of expectations. Many schools install panels hoping for big savings—only to find bills still high. Why?
No storage means schools still rely on expensive grid power in early mornings, late afternoons, and cloudy days.
Peak demand charges and time-of-use pricing aren’t addressed by solar alone.
Seasonal shifts in usage further limit its impact.
Solar is a great first step—but not a complete solution.
What’s missing? Battery storage. It’s not just backup—it’s a smarter way to manage energy use throughout the day.
Understanding Fixed vs Variable Charges on Your Bill
A large portion of a school’s electricity bill comes from fixed and variable charges that can’t be reduced simply by switching retailers. Here are three key cost components that consistently impact schools:
Network Charges – Fees to maintain the grid infrastructure (poles, wires, etc.), unaffected by your energy retailer.
Capacity Charges – Also called demand charges, based on the school’s peak electricity use, which can significantly inflate bills.
Environmental Charges – Government-imposed levies not influenced by retail contracts.
Because these charges are either fixed or driven by usage patterns, traditional retail offers don’t address them. That’s where smart solutions—like battery storage, energy monitoring, and demand management—can make a real difference.
What About Solar?
Rooftop solar can offset some energy use, but costs typically range from $120–$170/MWh, depending on system size and available rebates.
Meanwhile, in early 2025, the average daytime wholesale price for grid power in WA was under $100/MWh—cheaper than solar in some cases. And since capacity charges are often triggered outside of solar generation hours, solar alone won’t reduce them.
The Bottom Line for Schools
Solar can help, but it’s not a complete solution. To significantly cut electricity costs, schools need a broader strategy that includes solar, battery storage, peak demand management, and intelligent energy controls.
Teaser for Next Issue: Discover how Change Energy’s ‘Managed Energy Services’ model can cut the total cost of an electricity bill (whilst continuing to reduce emissions).
Is Your School Ready to Step Ahead of the Curve?
Now more than ever, schools across WA are recognising the need to take control of their electricity usage and reduce costs.
At Change Energy, we offer innovative, modern technology solutions that allow schools to unlock real savings on their energy bills while promoting smarter, greener energy use. From cutting-edge battery integration to intelligent energy management systems, we’re helping schools future-proof their operations and reinvest savings where they matter most—into education.
Is your school ready to take the next step? Register your interest today and discover how we can help your school lead the way in energy innovation.
