SOLAR

Solar at Smart Energy Market

At Smart Energy Market, we believe solar power should be easy to understand and accessible for every Australian household. Whether you are just starting your solar journey or ready to compare systems, our guides will help you cut through the noise and make smart, confident choices.

Solar System Prices

The cost of a solar system depends on several factors: the size of the system, the quality of panels and inverters, installation complexity, and location. Entry-level systems generally use budget panels and may have shorter warranties, while mid-range and premium systems offer higher efficiency, stronger brand support, and warranties of up to 25–30 years.

As of 2025, you can expect:

5 kW systems: $4,500 – $8,000
6.6 kW systems: $5,500 – $9,000
10 kW systems: $8,000 – $13,000
13.3 kW systems: $10,000 – $15,000

These prices include the federal solar rebate but may vary depending on your city, roof type, and additional electrical work. Understanding what makes up the cost ensures you avoid paying too much or falling for deals that are too cheap to be reliable.

Solar by Location

Solar output is heavily influenced by where you live. A system in Adelaide will perform differently to one in Hobart due to sunshine hours, climate, and grid regulations. Location also affects the rebates and feed-in tariffs you can access.

Our city guides cover major locations including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Hobart, Darwin and regional centres. You will find:

Expected energy output per kW in your area
Average household savings based on local tariffs
Available state rebates and additional incentives
Payback periods so you can see when your system will pay for itself

By tailoring your expectations to your location, you can make better decisions on system size and potential returns.

Solar by System Size

Choosing the right system size is critical. A small 5 kW system may suit a household with low daytime usage, while families planning for EV charging or future battery storage often benefit from 10 kW or larger.

We explain:

How to calculate your household usage based on electricity bills
Why bigger is often better (adding panels later is more expensive)
Network limits on solar exports in different states
Future-proofing tips if you expect to add a battery or electric vehicle

Our sizing guides are designed to help you balance upfront costs with long-term energy independence.

Compare Solar Brands

Australia has a wide range of solar panel brands, from global giants to smaller players. Not all are equal in quality, efficiency, or local support.

We provide independent comparisons on:

Panel efficiency and performance in Australian conditions
Product and performance warranties (some brands offer 25–30 years)
Local service and support availability
Installer feedback on ease of installation and long-term reliability

Our brand comparisons cut through the marketing claims so you can choose panels backed by a proven track record.

Top Solar Panels for 2025

Every year we highlight the best solar panels in Australia based on independent testing, installer experience, and customer reviews. In 2025, the top panels combine high efficiency with strong warranties and local support.

This list is perfect for homeowners who want peace of mind and proven performance. Our ranking helps you narrow your search quickly and avoid lesser-known brands that may not last.

Solar Panel Sizes

Panel sizes are measured in watts, and in 2025 most panels range between 400 W and 440 W. The higher the wattage, the fewer panels you need to reach your desired system size. However, roof shape and shading can affect how panels are arranged.

We explain:

How panel wattage affects system design
Roof layout considerations for portrait vs landscape mounting
Trade-offs between premium and budget panels

This section helps you understand how installers design systems to maximise your roof space and energy generation.

Solar Panel Reviews

Hearing from real homeowners and installers is invaluable. Our review section provides detailed insights into:

Durability over time in Australian heat, storms, and coastal environments
Customer support from manufacturers and warranty responsiveness
Installer feedback on brands that are easy or difficult to work with

By reading genuine experiences, you can avoid potential pitfalls and choose panels that deliver reliable results.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Solar panels require little maintenance, but keeping them clean helps ensure peak efficiency. In most cases, rainfall is enough to keep panels clear of dust and debris. However, households in dry or dusty regions may benefit from an occasional professional clean.

We provide guidance on:

When to clean your panels yourself and when to hire a professional
How to spot performance issues using system monitoring
The importance of safety checks every 5 years to ensure wiring and inverters remain safe and effective

Regular maintenance ensures your panels last longer, perform better, and deliver maximum savings.