Solar energy is one of the most cost-effective and clean sources for power generation in a world where natural resources are becoming scarce. It’s no surprise that solar panels have been popping up all over Australia, due largely to government subsidies as well as an increased awareness within our culture about how much waste we contribute with traditional fuels as our main source. If you’re looking at going green with your home or business, there has never been a better reason than now.
Key facts
- Solar system power prices depend on which region in Australia you reside in and how much sun exposure you may receive.
- A 6kW system is the most common solar power system, averaging at around $5,000.00.
- Solar rebates, equipment, and the exchange rate all influence the overall price of solar power systems.
- It’s recommended to search and ask around to find the best solar system prices to suit your lifestyle.
Solar panel prices 2021
Solar panels prices are currently at an all-time low, but there is speculation that they’ll start to increase again in 2022. The good news is that it’s still possible to get a great price by investing in the right panel system before the end of the year.
Compare 2021 solar panel prices in Australia:
Region | 4kW | 5kW | 6kW | 7kW | 10kW |
Adelaide | $4,030.00 | $4,360.00 | $4,940.00 | $5,970.00 | $8,130 |
Brisbane | $5,170.00 | $4,830 | $5,170.00 | $6,810.00 | $8,810 |
Canberra | $4,960.00 | $4,430 | $4,960.00 | $5,890 | $7,410 |
Darwin | $8,970.00 | $7,950.00 | $8,970.00 | $10,090.00 | $13,670 |
Hobart | $6,710.00 | $6,020 | $6,710.00 | $7,300.00 | $10,080 |
Melbourne | $4,980.00 | $4,620 | $4,980.00 | $5,750.00 | $8,030 |
Perth | $3,230.00 | $3,660.00 | $4,380.00 | $5,670.00 | $8,810 |
Sydney | $4,080.00 | $4,450 | $5,170.00 | $5,840.00 | $7,760 |
Source: GoSolarQutes Price Index (Nov 2021)
The top 4 factors that impact solar panels costs
- Equipment costs: The cost of solar panels has dropped dramatically in the last decade due to economies of scale reached by Asian manufacturers. As an emerging industry, factories can automate processes and increase manufacturing scale, significantly reducing costs per watt without sacrificing quality or efficiency. Many installers purchase directly from manufacturers, so they may lower prices even further than what’s already being offered at your local installer’s store.
- Exchange Rate: As solar panel prices continue to fall, it’s becoming more accessible for people in Australia. One factor that influences how much your home can produce energy is currency exchange rates and equipment availability overseas or locally sourced here at home. Over recent years, the Australian dollar has struggled against other currencies like the US Dollar, which makes importing goods expensive while export earnings struggle too if there are changes made by suppliers abroad.
- Solar Rebates: The federal solar rebate programme has been a major player in recent years as solar costs continue to decline. This year it is set to wind back, providing upward pressure on prices and ensuring that we witness more downward trends like those seen recently. It should also be noted how local schemes, such as those found within Australia, have had dramatic effects during these times when people want clean energy, but affordability is still important.
- Competition and Cheap Solar Panels: In the past few years, many solar contractors have been trying to take advantage of consumers with crazy prices for them not only to install but also to maintain their systems. Unfortunately, this has resulted in lower quality products and services, which is why we’ve seen downward pressure on pricing from both sides: side-effects such as lowered margins force some installers into sacrificing customer satisfaction while others use marketing tactics like large advertising budgets.
How much do solar panels cost by size
If you’re thinking about having a solar power system installed in your home, you’re likely wondering how much they cost. Solar systems come in all shapes and sizes, and the prices can vary widely. Here, we’ll take a look at the prices of solar power systems by size.
4kW Solar panel systems
One of the smaller options to have installed, a 4kW solar panels price often varies between $3,000 and $8,000 depending on where you live. Other factors that affect solar panel prices Australia include the cost of installation and whether or not you opt for batteries.
5kW solar system cost
If you want to buy solar panels that offer you good value for your money, then you may find that most 5kW solar panels for sale are typically a good option. The average 5kW solar system price generally ranges between $3,500 and $8,000. However, it’s typically a good idea to compare all of your options before you purchase cheap solar panels.
6kW solar panels cost
6kW panel systems or the increasingly popular 6.6kW solar panels for sale are a fairly affordable option that works well for medium-sized homes. Costing an average of between $4,000 and $9,000 they are a good option that’ll provide ample power while also producing an excess which you can feed back into the grid.
7kW solar panels price
The typical solar power systems prices for a system of this size generally ranges between $5,500 and $10,000. However, this could vary depending on the installers you opt for or whether or not you choose to have batteries installed as well. It’s usually a good idea to compare solar panels for sale to find the right panels for you and your family.
10kW solar panels for sale
These are generally the more expensive option when it comes to solar systems. 10kW solar panels cost are usually for sale for between $8,000 to $13,500. Although it’s a fairly large expense, with proper care you can prolong the lifespan of your panels and maximise the return you get with feed-in tariffs.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Is it smart to pay off solar panels?
Yes, it can be done. The solar panels will pay for themselves on average in Australia. The installation cost is $4,325, but it’s often less than that with rebates and other discounts! With an annual electricity bill averaging at just over 1k per year, you’ll cover your investment within four years time. If you are producing more electricity than your household can use, you can feed into the grid and receive tariffs for the extra power, which can help pay off your solar panels.
Do solar panels cost money to maintain?
Solar panels are an investment that can serve you well for decades, but they don’t mean neglect. A yearly inspection and cleaning are recommended to ensure the continued benefits of this long-term plan. When it’s time to install your solar system or if you need professional maintenance services in order to maintain its condition over the years, you will need to spend money. The average cost to maintain solar panels ranges from $300-$700, with the main expenses being cleaning and inspecting a basic 2KW system on bungalow-style houses.
Do you really save money with solar panels?
Yes, solar panels can save you money in the long term. You will reduce or even eliminate your electricity bills! It’s hard for some people who live on smaller budgets than others to see how much their savings add up because they’re not using as many kWh per year. Here is an easy calculation: just over $1k – which covers most families’ monthly expenses with enough left over each month after taxes and spending needs are met – can come from reducing just one household’s usage by 20%. Doing this doesn’t happen overnight, though. Clean energy investments like rooftop deployment still need time before payback becomes viable.
How much does just a solar panel cost?
The cost of installing a solar panel is between $2.67 and $3.43, but it varies based on how big your system needs to be in wattage capacity- measured by energy used per day (or month). There’s also the price for panels themselves, ranging from about $0-$600, each depending on their size. Again, this will largely depend upon roof exposure and efficiency rate. The bigger or more efficient they are, you’ll need less power, so check around before making any purchase decisions!
Can a house run on solar power alone?
With the recent advances in solar energy, it is possible for your house to run solely on this form of power. However, you need a way to store daytime production during nights when there are no sun hours available – which can be expensive at best! Luckily, however, new technologies have made storing batteries affordable enough to become more commonplace in future homes.