What's Included in a Solar Quote (and What to Watch For)
A legitimate solar quote from a CEC-accredited installer should include seven specific things. Here's what each line item means, what reasonable figures look like, and which omissions should concern you.
The seven things every solar quote must include
A written quote is a legal document. Before you sign anything, check that these seven items are explicitly listed - not implied, not verbal, not “we can sort that out later.”
1. Panel specification
The quote must name the panel brand, model number, wattage per panel, and quantity. “Quality panels” or “Tier-1 panels” without a specific model tells you nothing and protects you against nothing. Look for: product warranty (12–25 years covers manufacturing defects) and performance warranty (typically 80–84% output guaranteed after 25 years).
2. Inverter specification
The inverter is where most system faults occur over a 10-year period. The quote should name the brand, model, and capacity in kW. For string inverters (the most common type), the inverter capacity is typically slightly lower than the panel array - a 6.6 kW array often pairs with a 5 kW inverter, which is standard and permitted under network rules.
3. System size (kW) and estimated annual generation
The quote should state the total array capacity in kilowatts peak (kWp) and - ideally - an estimated annual energy yield in kWh based on your specific address and roof orientation. If you receive only a system size without a generation estimate, ask for one.
4. STC rebate, clearly deducted
Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) are a federal government incentive. Reputable installers claim your STCs on your behalf and deduct the value from your invoice - so the price you see is already the net price. If a quote shows a full price and presents the STC value as a separate “bonus,” ask why. The STC value should be transparent, not used as a sales tactic.
Current STC values fluctuate between $30–$40 per certificate. For a 6.6 kW system in Zone 3 (most of NSW, VIC, ACT), that’s approximately $2,800–$3,800 off your invoice.
5. Installation scope
The installation line item should cover: roof mounting hardware, DC cabling from panels to inverter, AC cabling from inverter to switchboard, isolators and safety switches, and scaffolding or elevated work platform if required. Confirm whether a two-storey surcharge applies to your property.
6. Grid connection fee
Before your system can export to the grid, your network operator must approve the connection. This costs between $0 and $350 depending on your distributor. Some installers include it; others add it post-install. Ask before signing: “Is the network application fee included in this price?”
7. Workmanship warranty
Separate from the panel and inverter manufacturer warranties, the workmanship warranty covers the quality of the installation itself - roof penetrations, cabling, mounting. The industry standard from reputable installers is 10 years. Anything shorter warrants a conversation. Anything absent warrants a different installer.
What a complete quote looks like
| Item | What to look for | Red flag |
|---|---|---|
| Panels | Brand + model + wattage + qty | "Quality panels" with no brand |
| Inverter | Brand + model + kW rating | "Reputable brand" with no name |
| System size | Total kWp + generation estimate | Size only, no yield estimate |
| STC rebate | Itemised deduction on invoice | Shown as a separate "bonus" |
| Installation | Scope listed, incl. two-storey note | Single line "installation" |
| Grid connection | Included or stated separately | Not mentioned at all |
| Workmanship | 10 years, in writing | Verbal promise or not mentioned |
Once you know what a quote should contain, comparing multiple quotes becomes much more straightforward. See our guide on how to compare solar quotes for the next step.
Information is current as at May 2026. STC values and rebate eligibility change - always verify current figures.
See how this applies to your address.
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