Last updated: June 12, 2026
Getting solar power quotes doesn’t have to be a hassle. Skip the pushy sales reps — go through Solar Proof and we line up experienced local solar companies to quote you, on your schedule. New to solar? This page covers the basics worth knowing first, so the quotes make sense when they land.
Solar power 101 — the basics
A quick foundation so the quotes make sense. The most common mix-up is solar power versus solar hot water — they’re completely different systems:
☀️ Solar power (PV)
Runs on light. Panels convert sunlight into electricity for your home and the grid. This is “solar PV” (photovoltaics) — what these quotes are about.
🚿 Solar hot water
Runs on heat. Roof collectors warm water for your taps and shower. A separate product — not part of a solar power quote.
Parts of a solar power system
Every quote should account for these — it’s a whole system, not just panels:
Panels
Generate the power. Modern panels are monocrystalline N-type, ~440–600W.
Inverter
Converts panel DC into usable AC. String, micro or hybrid (battery-ready).
Racking
Mounts and secures panels — must suit your roof and wind zone.
Wiring & monitoring
Cabling, isolators, meter and an app to track output and savings.
Optional add-ons many homes now include: a battery for evening use, and an EV charger. Mention these up front so you’re quoted a battery- and EV-ready system.
Solar rebates you can claim (2026)
Australians can still save thousands off the upfront cost — and it’s largely automatic:
Federal STC discount
The main rebate on the panels, applied upfront by your installer (you don’t chase paperwork). Worth roughly $2,300–$3,200 on a 6.6kW system, depending on your location.
Cheaper Home Batteries
The federal battery rebate — about 30% off an eligible battery (~$252 per usable kWh). Some states add their own battery incentives on top.
State top-ups vary (e.g. Solar Victoria’s panel rebate, the WA battery scheme). Your installer applies what you’re eligible for.
Solar feed-in tariffs by state (2026)
A feed-in tariff is the small payment you get for exported power you don’t use. The big shift in 2026: feed-in rates are low everywhere, so using your own solar (and storing it) now matters more than exporting it.
| State / network | Typical feed-in (2026) |
|---|---|
| NSW | ~3–10c/kWh (no mandated minimum; set by retailers) |
| VIC | ~1–8c/kWh (mandatory minimum abolished 1 July 2025) |
| QLD — SEQ (Energex) | ~5–12c/kWh (voluntary retailer rates) |
| QLD — regional (Ergon) | 8.66c, dropping to 6.006c from 1 July 2026 |
| WA (Synergy DEBS) | ~2c off-peak / ~10c peak (3pm–9pm) |
| SA, TAS, ACT | Vary by retailer — check your plan |
What to know before you get quotes
- The difference between solar power (PV) and solar hot water.
- Which rebates you’re eligible for (mostly automatic).
- Your state’s feed-in tariff — and that self-consumption matters more.
- The parts of a system so you can compare quotes like for like.
- A few questions to ask each installer about panels, inverter and warranties.
Want the deeper detail? See our guides on system sizes and batteries, and read installer reviews.
How Solar Proof makes it easy
We do the legwork. Tell us about your home once, and we connect you with up to four quality, experienced, local installers who’ll quote you at your leisure — a morning, an evening, whenever suits. Getting more than one quote is the best way to land a great deal and avoid being conned. It’s free, no obligation, and we cover all of Australia with quotes back in a matter of days.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between solar power and solar hot water?
Solar power (PV) uses light to generate electricity for your home and the grid. Solar hot water uses heat to warm water for your taps. They’re separate systems — a solar power quote is about electricity.
What rebates can I claim for solar in 2026?
The federal STC discount on the panels (applied upfront, worth ~$2,300–$3,200 on a 6.6kW system) and the federal Cheaper Home Batteries rebate (~30% off an eligible battery). Some states add their own incentives.
Do I still get a feed-in tariff?
Yes, but they’re low in 2026 — typically a few cents per kWh, varying by state and retailer. Because exports earn little, it’s better to use your own solar and consider a battery.
What are the parts of a solar power system?
Panels, an inverter, racking/mounting, and wiring with monitoring. Many homes now add a battery and an EV charger — mention these so you’re quoted a battery- and EV-ready system.
How do I get solar power quotes?
Use our free form — we connect you with up to four accredited local installers who quote you on your schedule, anywhere in Australia, usually within days.
Get solar power quotes the easy way
Up to 4 free quotes from vetted local installers — on your schedule.
Last updated: June 2026. Rebates and feed-in rates are indicative 2026 guides and change over time — confirm details when you request quotes.