The new owner of the True Value Solar franchise in Albury said the business was about to take on some exciting products.

“We’re going to be suppliers of hot water systems, of LED lighting, off-grid systems and hybrid systems,” he said.

Mr Patterson said that combined with the company’s buying power meant True Value Solar was going to be able to provide excellent support to customers.

“It’s quite an exciting company and I’m proud to be a part of it,” he said.

“It’s looking good for the future.”

Mr Patterson and his partner, Melissa Canet, bought the franchise after two companies of the previous owner were placed into liquidation.

That also led to a new franchisee at Wangaratta, where Bryn Folletta has taken over the business.

Like Mr Patterson, Mr Folletta has a wealth of experience as a solar specialist.

Mr Patterson’s business covers Albury, Wodonga and large areas of the southern Riverina.

He said he got a lot of enjoyment out of being in the industry.

“The return on customers’ investment and what you can do for families and for businesses — you just can’t beat it,” he said.

Mr Patterson said he enjoyed having such a good product that he knew would provide a return to customers.

“Solar now at the moment is more affordable than ever,” he said.

“It’s not really all about the feed-in tariff to the grid, it’s what we can save you per bill.

“Whatever you save is the return on your investment.”

Mr Patterson said some systems had dropped in price by as much as $15,000.

“And that’s with a government rebate still being in place,” he said.

True Value Solar is at 775A Mate Street, Albury and can be contacted on (02) 6023 4298.

The Wangaratta business is located at 49 Appin Street, phone (03) 5721 3334.