A Complete Guide to Solar Power Pricing

Solar energy has become a game-changer for Australian households, offering long-term savings and environmental benefits. But how much do solar panels cost in Australia? Prices vary based on system size, brand, location, and government incentives. In this guide, we’ll break down solar panel costs, installation expenses, and rebates across different states to help you make an informed decision.

Solar power systems

With rising electricity prices, solar power systems are an attractive investment for Australian homeowners. Whether you’re in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, or Perth, installing solar panels can help you save thousands on power bills while reducing your carbon footprint.

The cost of solar panels in Australia depends on various factors, including:

- System size and capacity

- Panel brand and quality

- Government incentives and rebates

- Installation complexity and labor costs

- Location-based factors such as sunlight hours and feed-in tariffs

Let’s explore solar panel costs across Australia, including state-by-state breakdowns and factors affecting pricing.

What Is the Average Cost of Solar Panels in Australia?

The price of solar panels in Australia typically ranges from $3,000 to $15,000, depending on system size and quality. Below is a general cost guide for residential solar panel systems after rebates:

Solar System Size	Average Cost (After Rebates)
3kW	$3,500 – $6,500
5kW	$4,500 – $8,000
6.6kW	$5,500 – $9,500
10kW	$8,500 – $15,000

For homes with higher energy consumption, a 10kW solar system may be ideal, while smaller households can benefit from a 5kW or 6.6kW system. If you’re considering solar battery storage, expect additional costs ranging from $5,000 to $15,000.

How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in Different Australian States?

Solar panel prices differ across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia due to government rebates, solar feed-in tariffs, and electricity prices.

1. Solar Panel Prices in Queensland (QLD)

Queensland is one of the most solar-friendly states, thanks to its abundant sunshine and generous solar rebates. The cost of solar power in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Cairns varies depending on system size and installation.

- Solar power cost in Brisbane: $5,500 – $9,500

- Solar panel installation in Gold Coast: $5,000 – $9,000

- Solar energy Cairns: $5,500 – $10,000

- Solar panels Rockhampton: $5,000 – $9,500

The Queensland solar rebate (Small-scale Technology Certificates – STCs) reduces solar panel costs by $3,000 to $4,000, making solar installation more affordable.

2. Solar Panel Costs in New South Wales (NSW)

New South Wales homeowners benefit from competitive solar pricing and strong feed-in tariffs. The cost of solar panels in Sydney, Newcastle, and Wollongong falls between $4,000 and $10,000 for a 6.6kW system.

- Solar installation Sydney: $5,500 – $9,500

- Solar panels Newcastle: $5,000 – $9,000

- Cost of solar panels Wollongong: $5,500 – $10,000

The NSW Solar Battery Rebate and Empowering Homes Program also help reduce solar power costs for eligible households.

3. Solar Panel Prices in Victoria (VIC)

Victoria offers some of the lowest solar panel prices in Australia due to state incentives. A 6.6kW solar system in Melbourne, Geelong, and Ballarat costs between $4,500 and $9,000 after rebates.

- Solar power cost Melbourne: $5,000 – $9,500

- Solar panels Geelong: $4,500 – $8,500

- Solar installation Ballarat: $5,000 – $9,000

Victorian homeowners can access the Solar Homes Program, which provides rebates of up to $1,400, plus interest-free loans to help finance solar installation.

4. Solar Panel Installation Costs in South Australia (SA)

South Australians pay some of the highest electricity prices, making solar power a valuable investment. A 6.6kW solar system in Adelaide, Mount Gambier, and Whyalla costs between $4,500 and $9,500.

- Solar power cost Adelaide: $5,500 – $9,500

- Solar installation Mount Gambier: $5,000 – $9,000

- Cost of solar panels Whyalla: $4,500 – $8,500

The SA Home Battery Scheme offers subsidies for solar battery storage, further enhancing savings.

5. Solar Panel Costs in Western Australia (WA)

Western Australia has some of the best solar potential but lower feed-in tariffs. The cost of solar panels in Perth, Bunbury, and Geraldton is between $4,500 and $9,500 for a 6.6kW system.

- Solar installation Perth: $5,000 – $9,500

- Solar panels Bunbury: $4,500 – $9,000

- Cost of solar panels Geraldton: $5,000 – $9,500

The WA solar rebate helps reduce the upfront cost by $3,000 to $4,000.

What Affects the Cost of Solar Panels?

Several factors influence solar panel pricing in Australia, including:

- System size – Larger systems cost more but provide better returns.

- Panel efficiency and brand – High-quality panels last longer and perform better.

- Solar inverters – String inverters are cheaper, while microinverters offer higher efficiency.

- Installation complexity – Roof type and structure affect costs.

- Government rebates – STCs and state incentives lower costs significantly.

Government Rebates & Incentives for Solar Power in Australia

The Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) provides rebates through Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), reducing solar system costs by thousands.

Additionally, state-specific programs like:

- NSW Empowering Homes Program

- Victoria’s Solar Homes Program

- South Australia’s Home Battery Scheme

These make solar power more affordable across Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Panels in Australia

1. How much does solar cost for a 4-bedroom house?

A 6.6kW to 10kW system is recommended, costing $5,500 to $15,000.

2. How much do solar panels cost in Brisbane?

The cost of solar panels in Brisbane is between $5,500 and $9,500 for a 6.6kW system.

3. What is the cheapest state to install solar panels?

Victoria and Queensland offer some of the lowest solar prices due to strong rebates.

4. How long do solar panels last?

Most solar panels last 25 to 30 years with proper maintenance.

5. How much does it cost to install a 6.6kW solar system in Australia?

Between $5,500 and $9,500, depending on location and panel quality.

Is Now the Right Time to Invest in Solar?

With government rebates, rising electricity prices, and lower solar panel costs, now is the best time to invest in solar power in Australia. Get a free quote today and start saving on energy bills!