How to compare solar quotes in Sydney

When you receive multiple quotes for a solar power system in Sydney, it can be tempting to simply choose the cheapest option. However, a quality quote is more than just a number; it’s a detailed proposal outlining the long-term value and performance of your investment. From our analysis of dozens of system quotes, we’ve identified the critical elements you must compare side-by-side.

First, verify that each quote lists the exact brand and model number for both the solar panels and the inverter. Vague descriptions like “Tier 1 panels” are a red flag. Look for reputable brands known for performance in Australian conditions, such as REC, Trina, Jinko, or Canadian Solar for panels, and Fronius or Sungrow for inverters.

Next, scrutinise the system size and the estimated annual output in kilowatt-hours (kWh). An installer should be able to justify their proposed system size based on your past energy bills and future consumption habits. A good quote will also provide a performance estimate, showing how much energy the system is expected to generate annually, so you can calculate your potential savings.

Finally, compare the warranty details and the installer’s credentials. The quote should clearly state the product warranties for panels (typically 25 years) and the inverter (10-12 years), as well as a workmanship warranty from the installer (a minimum of 5 years is standard). Ensure the installer holds a valid Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) license, which is essential for claiming any government rebates.

Common hidden costs with solar panel installation in Sydney

One of the most frequent complaints we hear from homeowners involves unexpected expenses that weren’t included in the initial quote. These solar quotes Sydney hidden costs can turn an affordable project into a financial strain. Being aware of these potential extras is the best way to protect yourself.

The most common hidden cost is a switchboard upgrade. Older homes in many parts of Sydney were not built to accommodate the electrical requirements of a solar system. If your switchboard is outdated, it will need to be upgraded to meet current safety standards, typically costing between $800 and $2,000.

Other potential costs to be aware of:

• Complex Roofs: Installers may charge extra for difficult installations on steep, multi-storey, or terracotta-tiled roofs due to additional safety equipment and labour requirements.

• Meter Upgrades: Your electricity meter may need to be replaced with a smart meter to handle solar exports, which can sometimes incur a fee from your energy retailer.

• Council or Heritage Approvals: While most residential solar installations in NSW are exempt, properties in heritage conservation areas or those that are heritage-listed will likely require council approval, which involves time and potential fees.

• Coastal Protection: For homes near the coast in suburbs like Cronulla or Manly, installers might recommend corrosion-resistant mounting hardware at an additional cost to withstand the salty air.

The Girl Next Door’s Pro Tip: Always ask an installer if their quote is “fixed and final” or subject to a site inspection. A reputable company will conduct a thorough site assessment before providing a binding quote to identify any potential complexities upfront.

Questions to ask solar installers in Sydney before signing a contract

Before you commit, it’s vital to ask targeted questions that reveal an installer’s expertise, reliability, and transparency. A professional installer will welcome these inquiries.

Here are essential questions we recommend every Sydney homeowner ask:

• Who is performing the installation? Will it be your own in-house team of SAA-accredited electricians or will you be using subcontractors? This is crucial for accountability.

• What are the full warranty details? Ask for a clear explanation of the product warranties (panels, inverter) and the workmanship warranty. Crucially, ask who is responsible for processing a warranty claim—you, or them?

• How will you calculate my Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs)? The federal STC incentive should be clearly itemised as an upfront discount on your quote. Ask them to confirm the value they are assigning to each certificate.

• Are there any potential additional costs? Directly ask about switchboard upgrades, difficult roof charges, or meter changeover fees. Get it in writing that the quoted price is all-inclusive.

• What is the detailed timeline? Request a schedule covering permit applications, installation day, grid connection, and meter configuration.

Case Study: A Family in Penrith The Sharma family was facing quarterly electricity bills of over $650. They installed a 6.6kW system with Jinko panels and a 5kW Sungrow inverter for a total cost of $6,100 after the STC rebate was applied. Their annual savings are now approximately $2,100, putting them on track for a payback period of under 3 years. Their last bill was only $45, mostly covering the daily grid connection fee.

NSW solar rebates and incentives 2025

In 2025, Sydney residents have access to valuable government incentives that significantly reduce the cost of installing solar panels and batteries.

• Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES): This federal government rebate provides Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). This isn’t a cash rebate but an upfront discount from your installer. The value depends on system size and location, as the scheme is gradually phased out. For a 6.6kW system installed in Sydney in 2025, this equates to a saving of around $2,100 – $2,300. This is due to the deeming period for certificates reducing to 6 years.

• NSW Battery and VPP Incentives: Under the NSW Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS), financial incentives are available for households that install a battery and connect it to a Virtual Power Plant (VPP). A VPP is a network of connected batteries that helps support the grid during high-demand periods. Enrolling in a VPP is often the requirement for accessing the primary government support for batteries, rather than being a separate, additional bonus. The total incentive can vary depending on battery size.

It’s important to note that many past NSW-specific rebates have now closed, so be wary of installers advertising outdated schemes. The incentives listed above are the primary programs available.

Sydney solar feed-in tariffs 2025

A solar feed-in tariff (FiT) is a credit you receive from your electricity retailer for any excess solar energy you export back to the grid. In NSW, there is no mandatory minimum FiT, so rates are set by the retailers and can vary significantly.

As of late 2025, typical feed-in tariffs in Sydney range from 5c to 10c per kWh. While getting a high FiT is beneficial, it’s far more valuable to “self-consume” your solar power. Using your own solar energy saves you from buying electricity from the grid at a much higher rate (often 30-40c per kWh). This is why sizing your system appropriately and considering a battery to store excess energy for evening use is often the smartest financial strategy.

Where to Find Sydney Solar Installer Reviews and Ratings

Beyond checking licenses, researching an installer’s reputation through customer reviews is a critical step. Look for feedback on independent platforms to get an unbiased view of their workmanship and service.

• Google Reviews: A good starting point for at-a-glance ratings and recent customer feedback. Pay attention to how the company responds to both positive and negative comments.

• Solar-Specific Review Sites: Websites like SolarQuotes and ProductReview.com.au offer extensive databases of reviews specifically for Australian solar installers. These platforms often verify that the reviews are from genuine customers.

• What to Look For: Don’t just focus on the star rating. Read detailed reviews to understand the entire customer experience, from the initial sales process to installation and after-sales support. Look for patterns in feedback regarding communication, timeliness, and how issues were resolved.

The Solar Panel Installation Process in Sydney: A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding the typical installation journey helps you know what to expect after signing a contract. While minor details can vary, the process generally follows these key stages.

1. Site Assessment and Final Design: A technician will conduct a detailed site visit to confirm all measurements, check your switchboard, and assess roof access and condition. This informs the final system design.
2. Permits and Grid Approval: Your installer will handle the necessary paperwork, which includes applying for grid connection approval from your electricity distributor (e.g., Ausgrid, Endeavour Energy). This can take several weeks.
3. Installation Day: On the scheduled day, a team of accredited installers will arrive. The process typically takes one to two days and involves setting up safety scaffolding, fixing mounting racks to the roof, attaching the solar panels, and installing the inverter and associated wiring.
4. Grid Connection and Commissioning: After the physical installation, an authorised service provider may need to connect the system to the grid and install a smart meter if you don’t already have one. The installer will then commission the system, which involves a final safety check and turning it on. Your system is now operational.

Checking solar installer licenses in NSW

Ensuring your installer is properly licensed and accredited is non-negotiable for safety, performance, and rebate eligibility. In NSW, you need to verify two key things:

• Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) Accreditation: The individual installer or supervisor on-site must be accredited by SAA (formerly by the Clean Energy Council). This is a mandatory requirement to claim STC rebates.

• NSW Fair Trading Licence: The business must hold a valid contractor licence for electrical work. You can check this instantly on the NSW Fair Trading website.

The Girl Next Door’s Pro Tip: Ask for the SAA accreditation number of the individual who will be on-site and the electrical contractor licence number for the business. Verify both online before signing any documents. A trustworthy installer will provide this information without hesitation.

If you are feeling overwhelmed by the research, we can help. We can connect you with a trusted local expert who has already been vetted for all the necessary licenses and a proven track record of quality installations in the Sydney area.