Owing to the current price hike in conventional power prices, solar panels are the most viable option for Australian consumers. Australia is one of the most unique continents in the world with extraordinary flora, fauna, and climate. The country receives an exceptionally high amount of sunshine which is perfect for solar power! It is good news for many new users, but when someone wants to switch to solar, contemplating its cost is the most essential thing to do. So, let’s explore how much solar system installation will cost depending on its quality, panel quantity, and efficiency. 

Solar Panels Cost in Australia

When evaluating the cost of solar panels, it is essential to consider the advertised price as most of the time it includes installation cost as well.  Fortunately, Australia supports green and sustainable power alternatives and solar users can get extra benefits through solar rebate programs in different states. For instance, if a solar installer quotes $6500 for a 6.6kW solar PV system, solar consumers do not have to pay an extra amount for installation as the quote is inclusive of the service. At this point, it is very important to be aware of scams like unauthorized installers asking for installation costs. 

So, to avoid any inconvenience, always opt for authorized solar installers, they are certified by the Clean Energy Council (CEC), a government body that sets standards for solar installers. Also, certified installers assist their customers in applying for solar rebates. Solar rebates can differ state-wise depending upon how much amount each state is paying for their solar panel rebates. 

Location is another significant factor that affects the efficiency of solar panels. Areas that receive unhindered sunlight require a lesser number of solar panels and produce more solar power than shady places, which require more panels to convert sunlight into power. 

Average Solar Panel Cost in Australia

Per Watt

When it comes to per-watt cost, solar consumers need to consider solar system size and state rebates. For example, if solar a user buys a 5kWh system, then its per-watt panel price would be around $1.04. But if the system size increases to 10 kWh its per-watt cost will decrease to $0.92. So, the size of the solar panel is inversely proportional to the per-watt cost, the bigger the size, the lower the per-watt price, and vice versa. 

Per kWh

If we consider the global solar energy industry, In Australia, the solar panel price per kWh is one of the most affordable. Thanks to the Australian government’s solar incentives and rebates, solar users are now lesser burdened by solar investments. For example, if solar users opt for a high-end solar PV system, its per-kWh cost will be around $1000 – $2000.

Is the Solar Installation Price the Same All Over Australia?

At this stage, solar users need to contemplate solar installation expenses vary state-wise. The main reason behind this is every Australian state has a different budget for solar rebates. Thus, for a big solar PV system, consumers will be charged kWh (per kilowatt-hour). Simply put, it is a business method, bulk buying will make users spend less than a single unit purchase. 

Solar Panel Installation Cost Breakdown

It would be more significant if solar users break down the solar installation cost. It is classified into 2 main categories: soft expense and hardware costs. 

Soft Expenses include:

1. Labor and Installation (20%)
2. Adds-ons and Assessment (12%)
3. Solar Installer Outlay (8%)
4. Permits and Inspections (4%)

Hardware Prices include:

1. Solar Panels (32%)
2. Wiring and Inverter(s) (14%)
3. Mounting and Racking (8%)

Solar panels solely require high finances as it accounts for 32% of the entire cost. So, it is also important to consider all the costs and rebate offerings before investing in solar. 

Factors Affecting Solar Panel Installation Outlay

Other than the location and size of the panels, many other factors affect the solar outlay.

Brand

High-end solar brands are more expensive than their substandard counterparts. Both brands come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Roof Space

Roof space also plays a vital role in the number of panels and their efficiency. If the roof is open and has no shadows, it will get more sunshine and panels will work at high capacity. Eventually, consumers will require fewer solar panels and will spend less on them. However, in the opposite case, more solar panels will be required and more costs will be incurred. 

Interconnection fee

The interconnection fee is the cost solar consumers pay for solar permits and solar PV system connection with the grid. It is recommended to consult with professional and authorisez solar installers to get it done at cheaper costs. 

Labor

Accredited solar installers have expert technicians who ensure proper wiring, connections, and installations. They will charge some amount but it’s better to invest in quality labor than to cry over unskilled technicians’ work.