Solar system sizes and costs

A 6.6kW system typically costs $4,500 to $7,000 after the STC discount, and makes about 9,016 kWh a year in Melbourne.

No. A bigger system only pays back if you use the extra power or get paid enough to export it. Size for your daytime use first, then add a battery if most of your use is in the evening.

On a 6.6kW system in Melbourne it is about $1,482 (39 certificates at about $38 each at the current market price). It drops each year from 1 January as the deeming period shortens.

A 5–6 kW system is typical for Australian families. It costs $5,500–$8,500 AUD and produces about 7–9 MWh per year (depending on location and roof angle). If you use 15–20 MWh per year, a 5 kW system will cover about half your consumption; the rest comes from the grid. If you want to cut bills by 80%, you'd need a larger system (8–10 kW) or add a battery to store midday power for evening use.

A complete solar panel and battery package costs $12,000–$26,000 AUD, depending on system size and battery capacity. Solar panel installation alone is $4,000–$9,500; battery alone is $7,000–$15,000. If you qualify for Cheaper Home Batteries (from 1 May 2026), the rebate cuts the battery cost: $252/kWh for the first 14 kWh, $151/kWh for 14–28 kWh, and $38/kWh for 28–50 kWh. For example, a 10 kWh battery would receive roughly $2,520 in rebate. Check the Clean Energy Regulator's website to confirm your eligibility and current rates.

Yes, if you install a system up to 10 kW and use an SAA-accredited installer, you qualify for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) under the federal SRES. The upfront discount equals your system size (kW) × your zone multiplier × 5 deeming years × $38 per STC. For example, a 5 kW system in zone 2 would earn 5 × 1.2 × 5 × $38 = $4,560 in STCs (applied as a discount). Battery systems may also qualify for state or federal rebates; amounts change annually, so confirm with your state energy regulator or the Clean Energy Regulator before install.

Adding a battery to an existing solar system costs $7,500–$16,000 AUD, depending on battery capacity (usually 5–15 kWh) and whether your switchboard and inverter need upgrades. Our electricians will assess whether your current setup can accept a battery or if you need a new hybrid inverter or additional wiring. If you're eligible for Cheaper Home Batteries (available from 1 May 2026), the rebate applies to the battery cost only, not installation. Ask Solar Advice for a site visit quote that includes battery compatibility check.

Our solar panel installation includes a full site and roof assessment; system design matched to your electricity usage and roof space; tier-one panels, inverter, racking and isolators; installation by an accredited electrician (SAA credential); grid connection paperwork and lodgement; monitoring app setup and handover. We also advise on STC eligibility and help you apply. Our electricians carry public liability insurance and hold current SAA accreditation. Contact us on 0485868633 or [email protected] for a free quote and 10–15 minute phone assessment.