The process explained
How Solar Installation Works
From your roof to the grid in five clear stages
- 01
Site survey and bill review
We visit your property, measure your roof, check for shading, inspect your switchboard and review your electricity bills. This takes 30–45 minutes and tells us exactly what size system will suit you.
- 02
System design and quote
We create a tailored design showing panel layout, inverter model, racking type and the estimated STCs you'll earn under the SRES. The quote breaks down materials, labour, grid connection and any applicable rebates.
- 03
Installation and testing
- 04
Grid connection and handover
We lodge paperwork with your distribution network operator and the Clean Energy Regulator. Once approved (usually 2–6 weeks), the network swaps your meter and you start exporting to the grid and earning STCs.
Electricity prices rise every year while most of the energy your roof could generate stays unused. A properly sized solar system with tier-one panels, a matched inverter and an accredited electrician's clean install turns that wasted potential into savings. We handle the full journey: site assessment, system design matched to your usage, installation by an SAA-accredited electrician, grid connection paperwork and monitoring app setup.
What happens at the site survey?
The site survey is your first appointment where we assess your roof's size, pitch, shading and structural condition, measure your switchboard, check whether you're on single or three-phase power and review your electricity bills. This data tells us your usage pattern and solar potential. We'll also check for obstacles like chimneys, vents and nearby trees. A full roof inspection protects both you and the installer from surprises during the job. The whole visit usually takes 30–45 minutes.
How is my system size and panel count worked out?
We match your system size (measured in kilowatts) to your annual electricity usage and the amount of roof space you have available. A typical household using 15–20 kWh per day might need a 6–8 kW system; a business or larger home might need 10–30 kW or more. The zone multiplier for your postcode and climate determines how many Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) you'll earn under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). System design also considers your roof type (metal, concrete tile, slate), pitch (angle) and whether you want a battery later. We'll show you layout options and explain how many panels fit.
What does the installation day involve?
Installation typically takes one to three days depending on system size and roof complexity. Our SAA-accredited electrician will install the roof racking, mount the panels, run cables through conduit to your switchboard, fit the inverter (which converts DC to AC), install isolators and safety switches, and connect everything safely. We use quality tier-one panels, matched inverters and certified components. The electrician will then test all circuits, check earth continuity and confirm the system meets the relevant Australian standard (AS/NZS 5033 for grid-connected systems). We'll also set up your monitoring app so you can watch your generation live.
How long does grid connection take?
After installation, we lodge your paperwork with your distribution network operator (Ausgrid, Energex, South Australia Power Networks or your regional operator) and the Clean Energy Regulator (CER) for your STCs. Network approval typically takes two to six weeks depending on your network's workload and whether upgrades are needed. During this time your system is installed but not yet exporting to the grid. Once approval comes through, we'll arrange a final meter swap and you'll start earning credits on your bill for surplus generation.
What if I want to add a battery later?
If you install solar first and add a battery later, we'll upgrade your inverter (if needed for hybrid or battery-ready models) and install the battery, a DC switch and any additional safety gear. Adding a battery to an existing system costs $7,500–$16,000 depending on capacity and brand. The federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program offers upfront subsidies: about $252/kWh for the first 14 kWh, $151/kWh to 28 kWh and $38/kWh to 50 kWh (2026 rate). Confirm current amounts with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water (DCCEEW) or your state energy agency, as rebates change on set dates.
What warranty and monitoring do I get?
Tier-one panels typically come with a 25-year output warranty (usually 90% output at year 10, 80% at year 25) and a 10–12 year product warranty. Inverters carry 5–10 year warranties depending on brand. We include a monitoring app that logs your generation, battery charge (if you have one) and grid export in real time. This lets you spot any drop in output early. We also offer solar panel cleaning ($150–$450) and annual maintenance checks ($180–$1,200) to keep your system performing at peak efficiency.
What are the main cost factors?
The main drivers are: system size (kW and panel count), panel and inverter brand tier, roof type and pitch (metal is simpler than slate; steeper roofs need more racking), switchboard condition (upgrades cost more), whether you're on single or three-phase power (three-phase allows larger systems), distance from the switchboard to the roof, and the value of STCs under the SRES. A 6 kW system typically costs $4,000–$9,500; a 10 kW system $6,500–$15,000. Commercial systems range $25,000–$160,000. Battery and EV charger costs are separate add-ons.
How do I know if the installer is accredited?
Check the installer's SAA (Solar Accreditation Australia) accreditation status and that their electrician holds a current Electrical Licence. Ask to see their CER registration number and NETCC Approved Seller status if they sell batteries. You can verify SAA accreditation on the SAA register and ask for proof of public liability and professional indemnity insurance. Always confirm current licensing requirements with SAA and your state fair trading authority, as standards change. Solar Advice is SAA accredited; we'll show you our credentials before work starts.