Maximising energy efficiency with an RACV Solar system installation

Tamsin O'Neill and Tom Bodycomb's property showcases smart and efficient energy design with solar panels, a solar battery and an EV charger. The combination of solar energy generation and battery storage reduces reliance on grid electricity and lowers energy costs.

When Tamsin O'Neill and Tom Bodycomb, the founders of Green Magazine, sought to create their dream home they knew energy efficiency had to be at the heart of the project.

In December 2021, Tamsin and Tom purchased a property in Aireys Inlet: a not-quite-hectare of intact open woodland with views to the north and west, and gently sloping topography open to winter sun and protected from fierce southerlies and some northerlies. Key design priorities for the project included affordability, bushfire resistance and prefab construction for a swift, efficient build that minimised ecological disruption.

Tom and Tamsin chose RACV Solar to install their solar panels, solar battery and EV charger.

“They’re local and the most helpful company I came across with advice, and it's proven to be very successful.” Tom Bodycomb

To reduce their reliance on the grid and ongoing energy costs, Tamsin and Tom turned to RACV Solar for an integrated solar energy solution. The installation consists of a Trina PV solar panel system with an 8.5kW capacity, paired with a Fronius Primo hybrid inverter and an 11kWh BYD battery stack for energy storage. The system includes a Zappi 7kW EV charger, providing an all-in-one energy solution for the home and electric vehicle (EV).

“The aim was to generate all our own electricity.” Tom Bodycomb

RACV Solar worked with the customer to pick the ideal location for the solar panels.

“I like the way the solar panels just blend into the design of the shed.” Tom Bodycomb

Solar system

The 8.5kW Trina PV panels, known for their durability and high performance, generate ample energy to power the home. The solar panels take full advantage of the home's design to ensure efficient energy production, particularly during the long, sunny summer months.

Energy storage

To ensure they could rely on solar power even when the sun wasn’t shining, a 11kWh BYD battery stack was installed which stores excess solar energy generated during the day. This stored energy can then be used at night or during periods of low sunlight, reducing reliance on the grid and minimising electricity costs. The battery system also helps to ensure a stable and consistent power supply, even in the event of grid outages.

EV charging

A Zappi 7kW EV charger was installed to allow for electric car charging. This integration of EV charging with their solar setup reduces the carbon footprint and provides long-term cost savings.

Testimonial from the customer:

“It’s been beyond our expectations how efficient it has worked, especially in the winter months, it’s served our needs especially having 11kW hours of storage, typically that’s our daily consumption.”
- Tom Bodycomb, homeowner and Publisher of Green Magazine.