Understand SolarBefore You Commit.

A quality 6.6 kW solar system costs $5,000 to $9,000 after federal STC rebates. Prices vary by state, panel brand, and installer. Premium systems with micro-inverters or panels from Tier 1 manufacturers like Jinko, Trina, or LONGi sit at the higher end. Always compare at least three quotes from SAA-accredited installers.

The federal Small-scale Technology Certificate (STC) rebate provides $1,600 to $2,200 off a 6.6 kW system depending on your zone. The Cheaper Home Batteries program offers up to $3,300 for eligible battery installations. Some states offer additional rebates: the ACT has interest-free loans, Victoria has a battery rebate, and SA runs the Home Battery Scheme. STC values decrease each year, so acting sooner locks in a larger discount.

A battery is worth it if your electricity rate is above 30 c/kWh, your feed-in tariff is below 8 c/kWh, and you use most of your power in the evening. A 10 kWh battery typically costs $10,000 to $14,000 before rebates and can save $1,000 to $1,800 per year by shifting solar energy to peak hours. Payback is usually 6 to 9 years, and most batteries carry a 10-year warranty.

Most Australian households see payback within 3 to 5 years for a standard 6.6 kW system. The exact timeframe depends on your electricity usage, feed-in tariff rate, self-consumption ratio, and system cost. Homes that use more power during the day pay off faster. Adding a battery extends payback slightly but increases long-term savings.

Feed-in tariffs in 2026 range from 3 c to 12 c per kWh depending on your state and retailer. Queensland and NSW typically offer 5 c to 8 c, Victoria 4.5 c to 7 c, and South Australia 5 c to 10 c. Rates change regularly, so compare plans on the Why Solar feed-in tariff comparison page for the latest rates in your area.

Look for SAA (Solar Accreditation Australia) accreditation, strong Google reviews (4.5+ stars), at least five years in business, and Tier 1 panel brands in their quotes. Ask for a site-specific design, not a generic package. Avoid door-to-door salespeople and anyone demanding large upfront deposits. Getting three quotes helps you compare value and catch outliers.

A typical Australian household uses 15 to 25 kWh per day and needs a 6.6 kW system (16 to 20 panels). Larger homes, pools, or electric vehicle owners may need 10 kW or more. The right size depends on your roof space, orientation, shading, and how much you want to offset. A good installer will size the system based on your actual electricity bills.

Yes. Solar panels still generate electricity on overcast days, typically producing 10% to 30% of their rated output. Australia averages 4 to 6 peak sun hours daily depending on location, which is more than enough for strong returns. Modern panels are designed to perform well in diffuse light. Rain also helps by keeping panels clean.