Solar panel system installation. Short guide.

solar panel installation

Installing solar panels system onto your home in Australia is a strategic choice in 2025 and saves a good deal of money, conserves the environment, and is backed strongly by the government. More than four million rooftop solar systems have been installed around the nation, making Australia an absolute world leader in residential solar adoption. Government incentives such as the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) and the Cheaper Home Batteries Program make solar ever so easy these days. Apart from having lower electricity bills to pay, there is a chance for home sellers to increase the purchase price of their properties, while at the same time doing their bit for a sustainable future. This article looks into the wonders of solar power, the government assistance available, some examples of how much money people really do save, as well as providing a checklist of things you’ll need before solar panel installation process.

Benefits of Home Solar in Australia

Solar energy has a myriad of other benefits for Australian homeowners. Financially, electricity bills are lowered through the generation of power on the spot so there is less drawing off from the grid. Environmentally, it is a good thing as solar panels clean up the carbon footprints on the hearts and minds of the people, working neck and neck with Australia to achieve an 82% renewable energy goal by 2030. A also which is that the increased value a home owner will see in a solar panel installation which in turn plays a role in energy independence. Also with it’s abundant sunlight Australia’s climate is very suitable for solar energy production. Which in turn makes solar a practical and sustainable choice for homes across the nation.

Report Australia Energy Update 2024 which stated that solar photovoltaic (PV) systems put in at 16% of the national electricity generation in 2023 which is very much a testimony to the role solar energy plays in Australia’s power mix.

Government Support and Financial Incentives

The Australian government is doing well in terms of support for solar power systems. The Small scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) we see which has introduced Small scale Technology Certificates (STCs) which in turn reduce the front end cost by that of 25 30%. From July 1, 2025 the Cheaper Home Batteries Program steps in with a 30% tax back on battery in’s which may save the average home owner up to $2,300 a year. Also we have state based programs which for instance in NSW they have the Solar for Apartment Residents Grants.

Preparing Your Roof for Solar Installation

Getting your roof ready is key to setting up solar panels the right way. Firstly start by having a pro check your roof to make sure it’s strong enough and fix any problems. Also make sure you have enough room on your roof. Make sure the roof faces the right way. Usually north-facing roofs get the most sun. For example look at trees. Remove tree branches that block the sun. Talk to solar installers to create a system that fits required power needs. All these these steps helps you build an effective and long-lasting solar power panels for your house.

To learn more about government money and loans for solar, check out the Australian Government’s energy website: Government rebates and loans for solar. To get the scoop on the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme and how it applies to you, head to the Clean Energy Regulator’s official page. Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme.

What Size Solar Panel System Do You Need

Determining the right size solar panel system depends primarily on your household’s energy consumption, the amount of roof space available, and your location’s average sunlight hours. Most Australian homes consume between 15 to 25 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per day. Most installers typically recommend a system between 5kW and 8kW to offset this for an average household. However, if your electricity usage is higher—due to a large family, pool pump, electric vehicle, or air conditioning—a 10kW or larger system may be more appropriate. The orientation and tilt of your roof, as well as shading from nearby trees or buildings, also affect the system’s output, making a professional assessment vital. Additionally, your future needs should be factored in—if you plan to add appliances or move to an electric vehicle, it’s wise to slightly oversize your system.

With electricity prices rising and feed-in tariffs changing, many homeowners now choose larger systems to maximise long-term savings. Keep in mind that rebates and incentives are often calculated per kilowatt, so a larger system may offer better value overall. Consulting a Clean Energy Council (CEC) accredited installer will ensure your system is properly sized and optimised for your specific situation.

How Many Solar Panels Do You Need

The size of your solar system and the wattage of each panel directly determine how many solar panels you need. For example: Here is a table that shows how the number of solar panels required depends on the size of your solar system and the wattage of each panel:

System Size (kW) Panel Wattage (W) Number of Panels Needed
3 kW 370 W 9 panels
3 kW 400 W 8 panels
3 kW 440 W 7 panels
5 kW 370 W 14 panels
5 kW 400 W 13 panels
5 kW 440 W 12 panels
6.6 kW 370 W 18 panels
6.6 kW 400 W 17 panels
6.6 kW 440 W 15 panels
8 kW 370 W 22 panels
8 kW 400 W 20 panels
8 kW 440 W 18 panels
10 kW 370 W 27 panels
10 kW 400 W 25 panels
10 kW 440 W 23 panels

Note: Panel counts are rounded up to the nearest whole number, as you can’t install a fraction of a panel. Actual requirements may vary slightly based on inverter capacity and system design.

Steps of Solar Panel System Installation

Site Assessment & Design

  • Evaluate sunlight exposure on home location
  • Evaluate roof condition, and shading
  • Calculate energy needs and design system size

Permits & Approvals

  • Obtain local government permits and utility approvals
  • Obtain both local government permits
  • Obtain utility approvals
  • Check building codes and regulations

Mount Solar Panels

  • Assess the location of solar panel mounting
  • Attach the brackets to the solar panels
  • Secure the panels to the chosen mounting structure.

Electrical Wiring

  • Connect panels in series or parallel to optimize output
  • Wire panels to inverter(s) that convert DC to usable AC electricity
  • Connect to home electrical system and possibly the grid (if grid-tied)

Inspection & Activation

  • Inspection by authorities and utility company
  • System commissioning and activation

All these these steps helps you build an effective and long-lasting solar power panels for your house. To learn more about government money and loans for solar, check out the Australian Government’s energy website. It is Government rebates and loans for solar. To get the scoop on the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme and how it applies to you, head to the Clean Energy Regulator’s official page. Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme