It is easy for Australian consumers to access an end-to-end comparison of solar products and packages from a broad suite of reputable suppliers with Econnex Comparison. All solar retailers compared on Econnex have current CEC accreditation and all solar products shown on the platform meet relevant international standards.  

That’s not all. You can also complete the sign-up journey and pay your deposit within one platform – connecting you with the solar solution that suits your needs in mere minutes. Once finalised and confirmed, all you need to do is pick a date for installation.  

It is a matter of a few simple steps to begin your solar comparison and connection journey with Econnex: 

1. Visit econnex.com.au and click on Solar. 
2. Enter your address and a few details about the solar solution you want. 
3. Compare the different packages available in your area. 
4. Choose the solar system that best suits you. 
5. Fill in our online application and pay a small deposit. 
6. Receive a call within 48 hours from the selected installer confirming your order and arranging a date for installation. 

Absolutely, the time is now to engage with solar energy for the good of both the planet and your wallet. Solar technology has advanced at an incredible rate, offering clean and efficient power solutions for households and businesses alike. As nations around the world explore solutions to reduce their carbon footprint, solar energy represents an opportunity to do your part and contribute to minimising the impacts of climate change. 

Beyond the considerable ethical arguments for solar, there are also potential financial incentives. Solar power may offer consumers and businesses a chance to save on their utility bills over the long-term. Each time you use solar power, you use it instead of main electricity – potentially reducing your quarterly bills from the grid energy providers. While the initial cost outlay on solar can be high, it more than makes up for it over time. 

A solar photovoltaic (PV) system generates power via a series of silicone panels installed on the roof of a home or commercial building. These solar panels absorb sunlight to generate direct current (DC), which is then transformed by one or more inverters into an alternating current (AC); the same as is supplied by mains electricity. Once in this form, your solar energy is available immediately for household appliances, or storable in a battery for later use – according to your consumption patterns.  

There are numerous solar packages available for Australian consumers, from a broad variety of manufacturers, suppliers, and installers. Examples include:  

• String inverter systems typically connect one inverter to no more than two arrays (or ‘strings’) of solar panels on the roof. In their most basic form, these systems are considered less expensive and easier to install than others, although they may be susceptible to greater power loss or inefficiency in instances of shading or excessive high heat. String inverters now have far more functionality than in the past with Hybrid and Grid Tied string inverter products prevalent in the market. Almost all of these string inverters come with Wi-Fi connectivity with numerous models available with a variety of differing features and benefits to suite all.  
• Micro inverter systems involve smaller inverters, individually mounted to each solar panel to optimise energy output and system performance. For example, if one panel is heavily shaded the system will adjust to maximise the production from the others – a convenience not available with string inverter setups. However, these packages are considered slightly more expensive than other options.  

In Australia, solar panel systems come in a variety of sizes, each suited to different uses, from residential to commercial applications. Here's a breakdown of some common sizes and their typical purposes: 

• 3kW System: Ideal for small households or homes with limited roof space. A solar solution of this size can generate approximately 12 kWh daily, covering basic energy needs. 
• 4.3kW System: A step up that’s more suitable for medium-sized households. It strikes a balance between efficiency and space, generating around 17.2 kWh per day. 
• 5kW System: This is a standard size for average Australian homes, producing about 20 kWh daily. It's perfect for meeting the needs of a family of 3-4 people. 
• 6.1kW System: Designed for slightly larger homes with higher energy consumption, generating approximately 24.4 kWh daily. 
• 6.6kW System: Offers a great return on investment for households with significant energy use, producing around 26.4 kWh per day. 
• 8kW System: Suitable for large residential properties or small commercial buildings, with a generation capacity of about 32 kWh daily. 
• 8.3kW System: A bit more robust, generating approximately 33.2 kWh per day, ideal for larger homes or commercial spaces with higher energy demands. 
• 9kW System: Tailored for extensive residential use or small to medium commercial applications, producing around 36 kWh per day. 
• 9.6kW System: Steps up the capacity for commercial usage or homes with very high energy needs, generating about 38.4 kWh per day. 
• 10kW System: A threshold into commercial-grade solutions, offering around 40 kWh per day, suitable for businesses or large homes. 
• 10.5kW System: Provides approximately 42 kWh daily, efficiently bridging the gap between residential and commercial needs. 
• 12kW System: Ideal for commercial properties or large residential estates, with a daily generation of about 48 kWh. 
• 13kW to 15kW Systems (including 13.2kW, 13.3kW, 13.28kW, 14kW): These sizes are typically used in larger commercial settings or industrial applications, offering high energy output ranging from 52 to 60 kWh per day, catering to substantial energy demands. 

Each system size mentioned above is designed to meet specific energy needs, from small residential to large commercial applications. The right size for a household or business depends on several factors, including energy consumption patterns, roof space, budget, and long-term energy goals. 

The ‘best’ solar products or system can vary significantly according to your needs. With a huge number of differing brands to choose from, it’s important to us that solar products available on Econnex meet all the relevant global standards, and are CEC approved for sale in Australia. This is why we put the power of comparison in your hands: to provide you with the tools you need to determine the best fit for your individual requirements. It is essential that consumers have access to an unbiased comparison service such as Econnex to make a genuinely informed decision regarding which solar products will be most suitable from its range of installers. 

A solar feed-in tariff refers to a credit on your electricity bill, which you receive for exporting excess energy supply from solar back to the energy grid All feed-in tariffs are offered via energy retailers, not the government.

While the feed-in tariff still acts as an incentive for implementing solar, it does not provide the same level of return as it did years ago. These days, the primary rationale for implementing solar is the reduction of mains electricity use, as opposed to the money made from a Fit. The credit you receive may also vary due to the discrepancies between and the nature of each household's energy use.

Maintaining access to solar energy during a grid blackout requires significant battery storage capabilities. All batteries can provide backup power protection. However, we need to understand that there is a finite amount of power any battery, no matter how large. During a blackout, we need to nominate the most important items in the house that must still be supplied electricity, such as your fridge, plus two to three power points and lights. It’s not wise to run electric air conditioners, heaters and pool filters in a blackout.

 The viability of a solar battery in your system depends on various factors, including tenure at the property, sustainability mindset and available finances. The environmental arguments are worth considering. Solar batteries allow households and businesses to maximise the reduction of their carbon footprint from solar, only accessing grid power once the stored energy is depleted. Additionally, batteries can offer power access in instances of a grid blackout, although you should try to limit usage to essential appliances. 

The financial advantages of a solar battery in your system are less assured in the short term due to the upfront cost and long ROI. Also, the price and capacity of different batteries can vary significantly in Australia. Moreover, household load, relevant state tariffs and grid sales limits can affect the return on investment.

However, the argument for a battery becomes more persuasive over the long term – depending on the type of battery product you choose.  Recent research suggests that some solar batteries will pay for themselves before the expiration of their warranty period in certain states (as of August 2023).

Generally speaking, most Australian roofs have the space to accommodate a solar array of some kind. However, space is not the only consideration to make. Regular, unimpeded exposure to sunlight is key to optimising energy output from solar. You may have the roof space, but if it’s heavily shaded, you are unlikely to maximise the potential of your panels.  

Aspect and pitch also play a role in determining how effective any solar system will be. In broad terms, most solar panels operate optimally when they are north or north- west facing.  

Hard data on capital gains achieved by virtue of solar alone is difficult to come by. However, we do know that listings with energy efficient features received 8.7% more views on Domain in 2022 than comparable properties without them. Similarly, sustainable apartments attracted 5.5% more views. There is an active desire in a large section of the property buying population to move towards more sustainable housing, and we see that trend growing into the future.  

Yes, you can recycle solar panels in Australia, although the technology is still in its infancy. As such, there is a limited number of dedicated solar panel recycling facilities across the country, although we expect more to emerge as the solar industry continues to develop. In some states and territories without recycling centres there are e-waste drop-off points which can take old or decommissioned solar panels.  

Each household is different, as are their energy needs. For example, there can be a wide discrepancy between the energy usage of a house with an electric vehicle and swimming pool versus a house without them. Due to this variance, it’s impossible to generalise about which system size is most appropriate for a typical Australian family.  

That said, exploring your electricity bills and garnering a sense of your average energy usage across different seasons, and times of day, may help determine which solar setup is most appropriate for you. The more you know about your current energy habits, the easier it will be to assess how different solar products will work into that mix. If your current energy consumption is already significant, , a higher-powered solar system may be more appropriate.  

No, a solar panel does not convert heat into energy, which is a common misconception; it instead converts light. Elevated temperatures are not ideal for the silicone in most solar panels and can impede performance and longevity. Ensuring consistent exposure to bright, unimpeded sunlight is the critical factor when considering the most ideal locations for solar panels.  

It is certainly not recommended to dispose of solar panels in landfill, and it will likely soon be unlawful across  Australia. All Australian states and territories either have passed, or look about to pass, legislation banning solar panels from being disposed of in landfill. Solar panels have components that are considered toxic or hazardous that must be disposed of by alternate means where possible. Instead of landfill, try searching for an e-waste drop-off point or solar recycling facility in your area. Do not allow your used solar panel to be privately exported overseas for further use.

Also known as an ‘import/export’ meter, a smart meter allows you to gauge the performance and output of your solar system. With a smart meter installed, you can determine exactly how much solar power you are generating from your panels, and how much of that power you are consuming or exporting to the grid.  

In Australia, you cannot operate and utilise a solar system without a smart meter installed, as the old electricity meters in use do not have the capability to account for energy exported back to the grid. That said, you typically will not have to pay extra to install a smart meter on your home if you’re looking to implement solar. Most mains electricity providers will install a smart meter free-of-charge if you indicate you are adding solar, as it also improves their own energy monitoring capabilities. If you’re considering introducing solar power to your home, speak to your grid electricity provider to discuss upgrading to a smart meter.  

Yes, it is strongly advised that you clean your solar panels every 6-12 months to optimise the energy output, performance and lifespan of your system. Dust reflects sunlight, thereby preventing the photovoltaic cells underneath from absorbing the maximum amount of light possible. Additionally, any leaf matter, water or pollutants, bird droppings could have a similar effect, reducing the efficiency of your solar panels and potentially damaging them.  

While you can choose to try and clean your solar panels yourself, there are some potential risks of damage to you or the panels. They are often high up, and difficult to access, or require specialist equipment to reach from ground level. There are professional solar panel cleaning service providers available in Australia who may be able to assist with this essential maintenance.  

There are several different incentive programs that may be applicable for your solar installation, run at both a national and state level. First, the Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme allows solar owners (or agents representing them) to sell small-scale technology certificates (STCs). To be eligible, your solar system must be installed by Clean Energy Council (CEC) accredited installers, as found with all installers on Econnex Comparison.  

Further, each Australian state and territory manages its own mix of incentive programs and solar panel rebates to move consumers towards greener energy. For example, the Victorian State Government currently releases a capped number of rebates up to $1400 for solar panel installation each month, as well as interest-free loans of up to $1400 for panels and up to $8800 for solar batteries (as of September 2023). Each state’s solar panel rebate program has its own eligibility criteria, which you should ensure you meet before applying. There may also be other incentives, such as interest-free loans for solar panel installation, that are available in your state.  

When you compare solar on Econnex, we locate available rebates in your area and outline the STC offer available from that installer for your system. The two are added together and deducted from the sale price on our platform, clearly outlining what you’ll have remaining to pay if you choose that installation. The installer can then further assist you in finding finance options to help achieve your sustainable energy solution.  

You can get a refund of your deposit in the following situations:  

• If you cancel a sale within the cooling-off period as per the terms and conditions of the Provider.  
• If the Provider fails to install the system within the agreed-upon target date, and you choose to terminate the agreement with the Provider.  
• If the Provider informs you of a price increase, you decide to end the agreement with the Provider instead of accepting the price increase.  
• If the grid connection approval is refused.  
• If any of the quoted equipment becomes unattainable, and you do not agree to substitute it with equipment of similar quality.  
• If the supply location is not suitable for installation or supplying the Solar Products  

For more information on our refund and cancellation policy read more here.