Solar Panel Prices in Australia 2026: What Systems Actually Cost
From a basic 6.6 kW setup to a 13 kW system with battery, here's what Australians are actually paying in 2026 - after the STC rebate - broken down by system size, component tier, and state.
What drives the final price
The price you pay for solar in Australia is the sum of several components - panels, inverter, installation labour, mounting hardware, and grid connection. From that gross price, the STC rebate is deducted. What remains is your net cost: the number that determines your payback period.
The figures below are indicative ranges for mid-tier systems (Tier-1 panels, reputable inverter brands like Sungrow, Fronius, or SMA) installed by CEC-accredited installers in capital cities. Regional installs may be 5–15% higher.
Solar system prices after STC rebate (2026)
| System | Gross price | STC rebate (approx.) | Net price | Typical payback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6.6 kW | $6,500–$9,000 | −~$2,800–$3,500 | $3,500–$6,000 | 3–5 years |
| 10 kW | $9,000–$13,000 | −~$3,500–$4,500 | $6,000–$10,000 | 4–6 years |
| 13 kW | $11,500–$16,000 | −~$4,500–$5,500 | $8,000–$13,000 | 4–7 years |
| 6.6 kW + 10 kWh battery | $17,000–$24,000 | −~$2,800–$3,500 | $12,000–$18,000 | 6–9 years |
| 10 kW + 13.5 kWh battery | $22,000–$32,000 | −~$3,500–$4,500 | $17,000–$28,000 | 7–10 years |
STC values based on Zone 3 (most of NSW, VIC, ACT, SA). Zone 1 (QLD/NT) attracts higher STCs. Prices are indicative - get a written quote for your address.
How component tier affects price
Choosing premium panels over Tier-1 adds roughly $800–$1,500 to a 6.6 kW system for 1–2% higher efficiency and slightly longer warranties. For most Australian roofs with adequate space, the upgrade rarely pays for itself through additional generation. The exception is constrained roofs where higher efficiency per panel genuinely matters.
Inverter quality matters more than panel quality over a 10-year horizon. The average residential inverter fails once in 10–15 years. A reputable brand with strong Australian service support is worth the $300–$800 premium over an unknown brand.
What a payback calculation actually requires
Payback period = net system cost ÷ annual savings. Annual savings depends on: how much of your solar you self-consume (at your import rate, typically 25–35c/kWh), how much you export (at your feed-in tariff, typically 3–8c/kWh), and your current electricity usage pattern. A solar check using your actual address and usage gives you a meaningful estimate rather than a generic one.
See our solar quotes guide for how to evaluate the price you’re quoted against these figures.
Information is current as at May 2026. STC values and rebate eligibility change - always verify current figures.
See how this applies to your address.
Free check · Australia-wide · 60 seconds.