Solar series: Why you should time your solar system


If you’ve been thinking about upgrading or installing solar panels, now is the time to act. Federal and state rebates are gradually shrinking, which means the upfront cost of solar systems will increase over time. Waiting could mean missing out on thousands of dollars in rebates and long-term electricity savings.

Choosing the right system now ensures you lock in the highest rebates, maximise savings on your electricity bills, and future-proof your home’s energy needs.

Understanding your solar options

When it comes to solar, one size does not fit all. Your choice depends on your energy usage, roof size, location, and budget. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider:

1. Solar panels

The right solar panels can make a huge difference in both energy production and long-term savings. Look for:

  • Efficiency: More efficient panels produce more electricity from the same roof space.
  • Durability: Panels should last at least 25 years with minimal performance loss.
  • Warranty: Longer warranties provide peace of mind if anything goes wrong.

For example, a 6kW solar system in Brisbane can produce roughly 24-30kWh per day on sunny days, enough to power a typical family home. In Melbourne, production might be slightly lower due to fewer sun hours, so you might need a slightly larger system to achieve similar savings.

2. Battery storage options

Adding a battery to your solar system allows you to store excess energy for use later. When combined with solar panels, batteries let you:

  • Reduce reliance on the grid and avoid peak electricity costs
  • Use stored energy during blackouts or outages
  • Maximise the return on your solar investment by keeping more energy for yourself

Battery sizes range from around 5kWh for small households to 13.5kWh or larger for big families or those with electric vehicles. Choosing the right size depends on your energy consumption patterns and lifestyle.

3. Inverters

The inverter converts solar energy into electricity your home can use. Modern inverters often come with monitoring systems so you can track production and consumption in real time. Choosing a reliable inverter ensures your system runs efficiently and lasts for decades.

How rebates affect your decision

Federal solar rebates, like STCs (Small-scale Technology Certificates), and battery rebates are gradually decreasing. Installing a system now locks in higher rebates, reducing your upfront cost. Waiting a year or two could mean:

  • Fewer STCs → smaller solar panel rebate
  • Lower battery rebate → higher upfront cost
  • Longer payback period → slower overall savings

For instance, a 6kW solar system installed in 2025 might receive $1,600 in STC rebates. Install the same system in 2026, and that rebate could drop to around $1,400—a $200 difference that could go straight into your electricity bills.

Tips for choosing the right solar system

  1. Assess your energy needs: Look at your electricity bills to determine your average usage. A system that covers 80-100% of your consumption will maximise savings.
  2. Plan for the future: If you’re thinking about adding a battery, EV, or expanding your household, size your system accordingly.
  3. Compare panels and brands: Don’t just go for the cheapest option. Efficiency, warranty, and durability all matter for long-term performance.
  4. Check inverter compatibility: Ensure your inverter can handle your system size and any future upgrades.
  5. Work with a trusted installer: Professional installation ensures your system is safe, efficient, and eligible for rebates.

The benefits of choosing solar energy upgrades

Installing a solar system now does more than save on electricity - it improves your home and lifestyle in several ways:

  • Lower electricity bills: Use your own solar power instead of paying the grid’s high rates.
  • Energy independence: Reduce reliance on the grid and protect yourself from future price increases.
  • Environmental impact: Solar reduces your household’s carbon footprint and supports renewable energy.
  • Increased property value: Homes with solar systems and batteries are more attractive to buyers.
  • Futureproofing: Adding a battery or larger system now prepares your home for electric vehicles and smarter energy consumption.

Financial examples of acting now versus waiting

Here’s a practical comparison for a typical 6kW solar + 10kWh battery system:

  1. Installing in 2025: System cost $12,000, STC rebate $1,600, battery rebate $3,000 → $7,400 out-of-pocket. Annual electricity savings: $1,000 → Payback ~7.5 years
  2. Installing in 2026: Same system cost $12,000, STC rebate $1,400, battery rebate $2,000 → $8,600 out-of-pocket. Annual savings $1,000 → Payback ~8.6 years

By acting early, you save $1,200 upfront and shorten your payback period by more than a year. Multiply that over the life of your system, and the total savings can reach several thousand dollars.

Don’t wait for rebates to shrink

Solar panels and batteries are an investment in your home and your future. Rebates are shrinking, electricity prices are rising, and waiting could cost you thousands. The sooner you act, the bigger your rebate, the faster your payback, and the more control you have over your electricity bills.

The team at Compare Energy can help you pick the right solar system and battery combination to maximise your savings and future-proof your home. Call 1300 790 106 today to find out how much you could save before rebates drop.