Compare Solar Quotes Australia — How to Compare Prices & Quality

Written by Jacob, Last reviewed 2026. This guide is for informational purposes only — see methodology.

Solar quotes can look very different from one installer to the next. One quote might be $3,500 for a 6.6kW system, another might be $7,000 for the same size. The difference is not just markup — it is about what you are actually getting for your money.

Learning how to compare quotes properly — beyond the bottom line — is one of the most useful skills when shopping for solar. The cheapest quote is rarely the best value over 25 years. Here is what to look for.

Why $/Watt Beats Total Price

The simplest apples-to-apples comparison is dollars per watt. Divide the total upfront cost (before any STC discount) by the system size in watts. A 6.6kW system (or 6,600W) costing $7,000 works out to $1.06 per watt.

This lets you compare quotes of different system sizes fairly. A 6.6kW quote at $1.10/W and an 8kW quote at $1.05/W — the 8kW quote is actually cheaper per watt, even though the total is higher. Focus on $/W, not the total.

Typical $/W ranges for 2026 in Australia are roughly $0.90 to $1.30 for quality installations. Below $0.85/W raises questions about equipment quality. Above $1.50/W suggests you are paying a premium that may not be justified.

Panel Brand: Tier 1 vs Tier 2

Solar panels are often referred to as Tier 1 based on a manufacturer's bankability and production scale. Tier 1 can be a useful signal, but it does not replace checking the exact panel model, warranty document, datasheet, CEC approved product listing, and Australian support. Warranty length and degradation rates vary by model, so compare the product warranty, performance warranty, and datasheet for each quoted panel.

Tier 2 panels can be cheaper upfront but may degrade faster, have shorter warranty periods, or come from brands with less track record. The savings are real, but so is the risk. For a system you will rely on for 25+ years, compare the exact panel model, warranty, datasheet, CEC approval status, and local support.

Inverter Type Matters

The inverter converts DC power from your panels into AC power for your home. A quality inverter (Sungrow, Fronius, Goodwe, SMA) makes a significant difference to energy harvest, especially in hot weather when cheap inverters may throttle output.

Most residential systems use a single string inverter. If your roof has complex shading, microinverters or optimisers can help, but they add cost. For a straightforward north-facing roof, a good string inverter is the most cost-effective choice.

Ask what inverter brand each quote includes. If the quote does not mention the brand, that is a red flag.

Warranty: Product vs Performance

Two types of warranty matter. The product warranty covers defects, manufacturing faults, and premature failure. The performance warrantyguarantees the panel will still produce at least a certain percentage of its rated output after 25 years (typically 80-84%).

Many higher-quality panel models now offer 25-year product and performance warranties, but terms vary by model, so read the warranty document for each quoted panel. Some budget panels offer 25-year performance but only 10-15 year product warranty. That means you are covered for degrading output but not if the panel physically fails after year 12.

Inverter warranties are shorter — typically 5 to 10 years. Extended warranties are available on some brands and can be worth considering.

What to Check in Every Quote

Beyond price, every solar quote should clearly specify the following. If any of these are missing, ask the installer before proceeding:

• $/Watt Pricing: Divide the total upfront cost by the system size in watts. A 6.6kW system at $7,000 works out to $1.06/W. This lets you compare quotes of different sizes on a level playing field.
• CEC Approved Components: Only panels, inverters, and batteries on the Clean Energy Council approved products list are eligible for STCs. ^[1] Confirm the exact model numbers in your quote are on the list, then compare warranty and manufacturer support.
• Inverter Type & Brand: A quality inverter (Sungrow, Fronius, Goodwe) makes a big difference to energy harvest. Cheap inverters cost less but may fail sooner or clip your production on hot days.
• Warranty Terms: Product warranty covers defects. Performance warranty guarantees a minimum output over 25 years. Some brands offer 25 years on both — that matters.
• Installer Accreditation: SAA accreditation is mandatory for STC eligibility. Check the installer is also licensed for electrical work in your state. Avoid anyone who can't provide their accreditation number.
• STC Fine Print: Read how the quote handles STCs. Most quotes show the price after the STC discount is applied upfront. Confirm how many STCs they are assigning and that you are getting full value.

Red Flags When Comparing Solar Quotes

Some warning signs that should make you pause:

• High-pressure sales — "This price is only valid today" or "sign now to lock it in" is a classic tactic.
• Undisclosed brands — Quotes that say "premium panels" or "high quality inverter" without naming brands.
• Vague system size — Not specifying the exact panel count, wattage, and model number.
• No SAA accreditation — If they cannot provide their SAA number, you lose STC eligibility.
• Demanding full payment upfront — Standard practice is a deposit (10-20%) with the balance on completion.
• Switching panels at install — "We are out of the Trinas, so we are installing X instead" — this should be a conversation, not a surprise.

The Fine Print on STC Assignment

Most solar quotes show a price after the STC discount is applied. The installer assigns the STCs on your behalf and reduces your upfront cost by that amount. In 2026, a 6.6kW system earns roughly 40-50 STCs worth around $1,500 to $2,000.

Check that the quote clearly states the STC discount amount. You should know how many STCs are being assigned and at what price. Some quotes understate the STC value and pocket the difference. The Clean Energy Regulator provides the current STC calculation factors so you can verify the numbers^[1].

Get at Least Three Quotes

Three quotes is the minimum to get a sense of the market. One will likely be the budget option, one the premium, and one somewhere in the middle. Compare the $/W, the panel and inverter brands, the warranty terms, and the installer reputation.

The Energy.gov.au solar guide recommends shopping around and comparing at least three quotes from accredited installers^[2]. It is the single best way to avoid overpaying or getting poor quality equipment.

This guide is for informational purposes only. Solar pricing varies by location, installer, and equipment choice. Always obtain multiple itemised quotes and verify installer accreditation before purchasing.