How Much Does Solar panels Cost in Australia? (2026 Price Guide)
Solar panel prices in Australia typically run from $4,000 for a quality 6.6kW system to $12,000 or more for a large 13kW-plus setup, after the federal STC discount is applied. Price is driven by system size in kilowatts, the panel and inverter brands you choose, roof complexity, and whether you need extras like bird-proofing or a switchboard upgrade. Because the STC discount scales with system size and is applied up front by your installer, bigger systems enjoy a larger dollar rebate. Below is a realistic guide to installed pricing by system size, what moves the price, and a worked example of the cost after rebates in Victoria.
Solar panels price by system size
Installed pricing generally runs $4,000–$12,000 before rebates. Here's how that breaks down by system size:
| Type / size | Typical price (installed) |
|---|---|
| 6.6kWMost popular; ~16–18 panels | $4,000 – $6,500 |
| 10kWLarger homes / all-electric | $7,000 – $9,500 |
| 13.2kWBig roofs, battery/EV ready | $9,500 – $13,000 |
What affects the price
System size (kW)
The single biggest driver. 6.6kW is the popular entry point; 10–13kW suits larger homes, all-electric households, or anyone planning to add a battery or EV.
Panel brand and efficiency
Tier-1 panels from Aiko, REC or LONGi cost more than budget panels but deliver better efficiency, lower degradation and stronger product warranties (up to 25 years).
Inverter choice
A quality string inverter (Fronius, Sungrow, GoodWe) or microinverters (Enphase) affect both price and how well the system copes with shading and panel-level faults.
Roof type and complexity
Tin roofs are quick; tile and slate take longer. Two-storey homes, steep pitches, multiple roof faces and limited switchboard space all add labour.
Extras and upgrades
Bird-proofing, a switchboard or meter upgrade, optimisers for shaded roofs, and longer cable runs are common line items that vary quote to quote.
Battery-ready wiring
If a battery is on the horizon, paying a little more now for a hybrid inverter or battery-ready setup saves money later.
Cost after rebates: a worked example
Here's a realistic Victorian example. It's illustrative only — your price and rebate eligibility will vary.
| Indicative 10kW system (installed) | $8,250 |
|---|---|
| Less rebates available (up to) | −$3,500 |
| Indicative cost after rebates | from $4,750 |
Rebate amounts, eligibility and deadlines change frequently and depend on your circumstances. Figures here are a guide only and were last checked on the date shown — always confirm current values and eligibility with the relevant authority before purchasing. ThermaQuote does not guarantee eligibility. Figures last checked 2026-06-01.
See the full Victorian rebate guide →Regional price notes
Victoria gets less winter sun than Queensland, but solar still stacks up strongly thanks to high retail electricity prices and the Solar Homes rebate. Melbourne suburbs from Werribee to Croydon see strong summer generation and a winter dip, so sizing a little larger (closer to 10kW) helps cover the darker months. Regional centres like Mildura and Shepparton enjoy more sunshine hours and excellent returns. Coastal towns such as Torquay and Ocean Grove should ask about marine-grade mounting and bird-proofing. Feed-in tariffs are modest statewide, which is why self-consumption — running your hot water, pool pump and appliances during the day — matters more than chasing export credits.
Before you buy
The cheapest quote is rarely the best value in solar. Compare the panel and inverter brands line by line, and weigh the product and performance warranties, not just the headline price — a system that's $1,000 cheaper but uses budget panels can cost you more over 20 years in lost generation. Ask for a generation estimate specific to your roof orientation and shading, and check whether the quote includes a switchboard upgrade if yours is older. Confirm the installer is CEC-accredited (a condition of the rebate) and that the system is sized to your actual usage pattern rather than just your roof space. If you're considering a battery or an EV within a few years, mention it now so the inverter is specced to suit. Finally, get the post-rebate price and the rebate breakdown in writing, and beware of high-pressure door-to-door sales — a reputable installer is happy to let you compare.
Solar panels cost FAQs
How much do solar panels cost in Victoria?
A quality 6.6kW system typically costs $4,000–$6,500 after the federal STC discount, with larger 10–13kW systems running higher. The Solar Homes Program rebate can reduce the price further for eligible households.
Is solar worth it in Victoria?
For most homes, yes. A 6.6kW system commonly saves $1,000–$1,600 a year and pays for itself in three to five years, then keeps saving for the 25-year life of the panels.
What size solar system do I need?
It depends on your usage and roof. 6.6kW suits many homes; go larger (10kW or more) if you're all-electric, plan to add a battery or EV, or use a lot of power during the day.
Can I add a battery later?
Yes. If a battery is likely down the track, ask for a hybrid or battery-ready inverter now so you don't have to pay to replace it later.
What rebates apply to solar in Victoria?
Eligible households can combine the Solar Homes Program rebate with federal STCs, and earn a feed-in tariff for exported power. Check current amounts and eligibility before you buy.
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