Max Gawn reports $5,000 annual savings with 50kWh home energy system in Melbourne
Melbourne-based AFL captain Max Gawn has installed a 50kWh home energy storage system at his Melbourne residence, reporting significant reductions in energy costs and increased efficiency.
The Melbourne Football Club captain partnered with SolaX Power Australia to install the system, which includes a SolaX X1-VAST energy storage inverter and 10 HS51 battery units. The system is designed to deliver scalable storage capacity, with expansion potential up to 81.8 kWh.
Initial performance data shows the system is achieving 214% solar energy generation annually. As a result, Gawn expects to save approximately $5,000 per year on electricity costs. Over the system’s lifetime, projected savings are estimated at $100,000, with a payback period of around 3 years.
In addition, the installation provides up to two days of backup power off the grid. It is also expected to reduce household carbon emissions by an estimated 25 tonnes of CO₂ per year. Real-time monitoring is enabled through the SolaXCloud platform, allowing visibility over generation, storage and consumption.
Gawn said a desire for greater control over household energy usage drove the decision. “As an athlete, I’ve always enjoyed controlling my destiny. Now, in my daily life, I want the same. I want to control my energy.”
He also described the impact of seasonal energy demand on household costs. “Before SolaX, my home ran entirely on the grid. In the summer, the aircon would be on and the bills would be soaring. And the same in winter with the heater. I wanted something smart and simple – something reliable that would do the job. That’s why I partnered with SolaX. It just does the job.”
Furthermore, Gawn referenced Melbourne’s variable climate conditions. “Melbourne’s weather can be wild. Rain, hail, sunshine — you can have it all in one day. SolaX systems work through it all.”
System performance and program eligibility
The system includes a low start-up voltage feature, which enables early morning energy generation. This is particularly relevant during Melbourne winters when daylight hours are shorter. Additionally, a 24/7 AI assistant supports troubleshooting and energy optimisation.
SolaX Power Australia confirmed the installation aligns with broader adoption trends in residential energy storage. Joey Zhang, General Manager of SolaX Power Australia, said the system reflects expected performance benchmarks.
“Max Gawn has built his career on performance, reliability and doing the hard work others don’t see. That’s how we think about our technology. SolaX Power Australia simply delivers — morning to night. Hassle-free. You can relax, knowing SolaX has you covered.”
He added that the installation demonstrates current system capabilities. “Max’s installation showcases the reliability and performance Australians can expect from a truly modern home energy system.”
The system is fully eligible under the Cheaper Home Batteries Program, which has supported approximately 200,000 Australian households, small businesses and community organisations to date. Projections indicate participation could reach 2 million installations by 2030.
Zhang also outlined the company’s operational focus. “Since 2012, SolaX Power Australia has been empowering Aussies like Max to take control of their energy through intelligent, sustainable and resilient solar storage solutions.”
The installation comes amid rising electricity costs, with increased attention on residential energy solutions that reduce reliance on the grid and provide long-term cost stability.
