Last updated: June 12, 2026
Which solar panels are best — and how do you tell from a quote? When several quotes land in your inbox, they’re rarely comparing the same thing. Some bundle premium N-type panels and a quality inverter; others hide a cheap system behind a low price. This guide decodes what’s actually in a solar panel quote, so you can compare like for like and choose with confidence.
What is a solar panel quote, really?
A “solar panel quote” is rarely just panels — it’s a price for an entire solar power (PV) system. Two quotes at the same price can be worlds apart depending on what’s inside. Before you compare numbers, make sure each quote spells out all five parts below.
Because panels are high-tech, expensive and carry real electrical risk, it pays to do a little homework — or let us do the legwork for you.
1. Panels
Brand, exact model, wattage, count and total kW. The biggest spec to pin down.
2. Inverter
Brand and model (string, micro or hybrid), and whether it’s battery-ready.
3. Mounting
Racking and fixings — and that they’re rated for your roof type and wind zone.
4. Install & paperwork
Accredited install, grid-connection application, monitoring setup and compliance certificate.
5. Warranties
Product and performance warranties for panels and inverter — and who honours them locally.
+ The price
Fully installed, with the federal STC rebate already deducted. No surprise add-ons.
Decode the jargon on a panel quote
The spec sheet is where quotes get slippery. Here’s what the terms actually mean in 2026:
| Term | What it means & what’s good |
|---|---|
| Wattage | Power per panel. 440W is the 2026 standard; premium modules hit 600W+. Higher wattage = fewer panels for the same kW. |
| Efficiency | How much sunlight becomes electricity. Good panels are 22–23% — useful when roof space is tight. |
| Cell type (N-type / TOPCon) | The current standard, having replaced older PERC and polycrystalline. Better in heat and low light. Poly is effectively obsolete. |
| Temperature coefficient | How much output drops as panels heat up. Lower is better — around −0.30%/°C on good N-type panels. Matters a lot in hot climates. |
| Degradation | How fast output fades. Quality panels lose only ~0.4%/year, keeping ~87% of output at 25–30 years. |
| “Tier 1” | A bankability rating (Bloomberg NEF), not a quality grade. Handy to filter out fly-by-night brands, but not a guarantee of the best panel. |
| “A-grade” cells | Top-bin cells with no visual/output defects. Reputable brands use A-grade; be wary of vague “high-grade” wording. |
| Bypass diodes | Let current flow around shaded cells so one shaded panel doesn’t drag down a string. Standard on quality panels. |
| Warranty | Look for a 25-year product and 25–30-year performance warranty, backed by a brand with an Australian presence. |
How to compare panel quotes fairly
- Compare the same system size (kW) across all quotes.
- Check the exact panel and inverter models — not just “tier 1” or “premium”.
- Match the inclusions: battery, EV-readiness, monitoring, and any extra-storey or meter-board costs.
- Weigh warranties and local support, not just the headline price.
- Confirm the price is fully installed with the rebate applied.
How Solar Proof makes it easy
We act as a solar broker for you. Tell us about your home once, and we connect you with up to four qualified, accredited, local installers — so you can compare what the market is really offering instead of guessing. It’s free, there’s no obligation, and quotes typically come back within days, anywhere in Australia.
Should you just buy from a mate?
The short answer: don’t limit yourself. Your neighbour’s cousin might be a great bloke, but a single quote tells you nothing about whether it’s a fair deal. Getting up to four quotes through our free service means you can compare the market, avoid being duped, and potentially save thousands — then, if your mate’s quote really is the best, you’ll know for sure.
Frequently asked questions
What’s included in a solar panel quote?
A good quote covers the whole PV system: panels (brand, model, wattage, total kW), the inverter, mounting/racking, accredited installation and paperwork, and the product and performance warranties — at a fully-installed price with the rebate applied.
How do I compare solar panel quotes?
Compare the same system size, the exact panel and inverter models, matching inclusions, warranties and local support — and make sure each price is fully installed with the rebate deducted. Don’t just pick the lowest number.
What does “Tier 1” mean for solar panels?
Tier 1 is a bankability rating from Bloomberg NEF — it means the manufacturer is large and financially solid, not that the panel is the highest quality. Use it as a filter, alongside efficiency, warranty and reviews.
What are the best solar panels in 2026?
Monocrystalline N-type (TOPCon) panels are the standard — typically 440W (up to 600W+), 22–23% efficiency, ~0.4%/yr degradation, with 25–30 year warranties. The best panel is the one well-matched to your roof, budget and a quality installer.
Should I just buy from someone I know?
It’s fine to include their quote — but always compare it against a few others. A single quote gives you no benchmark for price or quality. Comparing up to four can save you thousands.
Compare solar panel quotes the easy way
Up to 4 free quotes from vetted local installers — no obligation.
Last updated: June 2026. Specs, pricing and rebates are indicative 2026 guides and change over time — confirm details when you request quotes.