Bunnings Expands Solar Subscription Service ‘Zelora’ Across Australia
Introduction to Zelora
Bunnings, a leading hardware retailer in Australia, has introduced an innovative solar and battery subscription service named Zelora, aimed at making renewable energy solutions more accessible to Australian households. Following a successful trial in Sydney and Newcastle, the service is now available in metropolitan areas across Queensland, Victoria, and South Australia.
Highlights of the Subscription Service
With a significant proportion of Australian homes now equipped with rooftop solar panels, Bunnings recognises that the initial investment often discourages potential buyers. Zelora addresses this concern by allowing customers to pay a monthly fee for solar and battery installations, eventually leading to ownership after a decade.
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Cost Efficiency: Data indicates that households using Zelora could experience substantial reductions in electricity bills — average charges dropped by 25% in New South Wales during summer months, soaring to 88% when excluding subscription costs for those using an 18kWh battery.
- Affordability: Bunnings operates on the principle that the hurdle of upfront costs can be overcome with manageable monthly payments, making renewable energy more feasible for everyone.
The Financial Benefits of Battery Integration
According to the Climate Council, integrating battery storage can yield savings of approximately $2,300 annually on power bills for average families, significantly surpassing the $1,500 savings achieved with solar installation alone. Current prices for home batteries in Australia start around $4,000 for smaller variants, with a full installation costing between $10,000 and $13,000 for most homes.
Expansion and Support
To enhance the Zelora offering, Bunnings has expanded its range of batteries to include products from Sigenergy and Anker SOLIX. Each subscription package encompasses not only the battery and solar systems but also installation, performance monitoring, maintenance, and ongoing customer support.
The collaboration with Intellihub, a smart energy provider, enables Bunnings to offer households greater control over their energy consumption, accompanied by meaningful savings on their bills.
A Vision for Sustainable Solutions
This initiative is part of a broader strategy by Bunnings to promote sustainable practices. In addition to the Zelora subscription, the company has previously rolled out electric vehicle (EV) chargers at select locations to meet evolving customer demands. Furthermore, they are stocking a variety of EV chargers and accessories, including Tesla’s Powerwall, solidifying their commitment to eco-friendly solutions.
Conclusion
Bunnings is positioning itself as more than just a traditional hardware store by embracing the energy transition in Australia. The introduction of Zelora represents a significant step towards making renewable energy accessible, and it reflects the company’s dedication to adapting to the changing needs and preferences of consumers.
With Zelora, Bunnings hopes to empower Australians to make environmentally conscious choices while enjoying substantial savings on their energy bills.
