Solar energy adoption in Australia continues to grow, with over 3.5 million rooftop systems now installed nationwide. Here is what you need to know before going solar.
System sizing depends on your energy consumption. A typical Australian household uses 15-25 kWh per day. A 6.6kW system with a 5kW inverter is the most popular residential configuration, generating roughly 24-28 kWh daily depending on your location and roof orientation.
The federal Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) provides upfront rebates through Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). This typically reduces the cost of a 6.6kW system by $2,500-$3,500. Some states offer additional rebates — check your state government website for current offers.
Feed-in tariffs vary by state and retailer. While they have decreased over the years, they still provide meaningful savings. Compare rates from multiple electricity retailers before committing.
Battery storage is becoming more affordable but the payback period is still longer than panels alone. Consider adding a battery-ready inverter now so you can add storage later when prices drop further.
Always choose a Clean Energy Council accredited installer and make sure the panels and inverter are CEC-approved products. This ensures quality and protects your warranty.