24 Solar Panels Cost: Your Ultimate Aussie Guide [2024]

24 Solar Panels Cost: Your Ultimate Aussie Guide [2024]

Thinking about slapping some solar panels on your roof and saving some dosh in the process? Good on ya! This guide is all about the cost of 24 solar panels in Australia. We'll break down everything from the initial price to the long-term savings, available government rebates, and how to find the best solar installers near you. Let's get started and see how you can power your home with clean, affordable energy.

Why 24 Solar Panels Might Be Perfect for Your Home

A 24-solar panel system is a fair dinkum popular choice for many Aussie homes because it strikes a sweet spot between how much energy you get and how much it costs. It's usually a good size for homes that use a fair bit of electricity, helping you slash those power bills. Here's why you might want to consider it:

• Ideal for Average to Large Homes: Got a family and all the appliances that come with it? A 24-panel system can usually handle the load.
• Massive Bill Savings: Seriously, you can save a lot of money over the years. We're talking potentially thousands of dollars.
• Boost Your Property Value: Solar panels are seen as a plus these days, potentially increasing your home's value if you ever decide to sell.
• Eco-Friendly: Do your bit for the planet by using renewable energy and reducing your carbon footprint.
• Earn with Feed-in Tariffs: Get paid for any extra solar energy you send back to the grid. It's like getting paid to be green!

What's the Damage? Factors Affecting the Cost of 24 Solar Panels

The cost of a 24-solar panel system isn't set in stone. It depends on a few things. Knowing what these are will help you get a more accurate idea of what you'll be paying.

1. Solar Panel Brand and Quality: Not All Panels Are Created Equal

Different brands come with different levels of efficiency, how long they'll last, and what kind of warranty they offer. Top-shelf brands like SunPower and REC might cost more upfront, but they usually perform better and last longer. You can find cheaper options, but make sure you're not sacrificing quality for price. It’s a delicate balance. Look for panels with a solid warranty – at least 10 years for defects and 25 years for performance.

2. Inverter Type and Size: The Brains of the Operation

The inverter turns the DC electricity from your panels into AC electricity that your home can actually use. There are a few types:

• String Inverters: The most common and affordable.
• Hybrid Inverters: Let you add battery storage later on.
• Microinverters: These are fitted to each panel, giving you more control and better performance if your roof gets shaded. They're pricier, though.

Make sure the inverter is the right size for your solar panel setup. A properly sized inverter keeps things running smoothly and prevents damage.

3. Installation Complexity: How Tricky Is Your Roof?

How easy or hard it is to install the panels on your roof has a big impact on the cost. Things like the slope of your roof, what it's made of (tiles, metal, etc.), how easy it is to get to, and how far the panels are from the inverter all play a role. A two-story house or a roof with weird angles will usually cost more to install.

4. Location, Location, Location: Where You Live Matters

Installation costs can change depending on where you are in Australia. If you're in a regional area, labor costs might be higher because installers have to travel further. Plus, different states and territories have different solar rebates and incentives, which can affect the total cost.

5. Extra Bits and Pieces: The Supporting Cast

Besides the panels and inverter, you'll also need things like mounting gear, wiring, safety switches, and maybe even a battery. The quality of these bits and pieces will affect the final price. If you reckon you might want to add a battery later on, getting a hybrid inverter now could save you money down the track.

The Bottom Line: Average Cost of a 24 Solar Panel System in Australia (2024)

Generally speaking, a 24-solar panel system (around 8kW to 10kW) in Australia can set you back anywhere from $8,000 to $15,000 after government rebates. Keep in mind that this is just a rough estimate, and the actual cost will depend on the factors we just talked about.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

• Budget System (Good Quality Components): $8,000 - $10,000
• Mid-Range System (Better Efficiency & Warranty): $10,000 - $13,000
• Premium System (Top-Tier Brand & Performance): $13,000 - $15,000+

Important: These prices are estimates after the federal government's Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs) rebate is applied. The STC rebate knocks a chunk off the upfront cost. The amount of the rebate depends on where you live and how big the system is.

Government Handouts: Rebates and Incentives for Solar Panels in Australia

The Aussie government wants more people to go solar, so they offer a few incentives. The big one is the Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), which gives you STCs (Small-Scale Technology Certificates). You can sell these certificates to bring down the initial cost of your solar panel system. Learn more about solar rebates.

On top of the federal rebate, some states and territories offer extra goodies, like:

• Feed-in Tariffs (FiTs): You get paid for any extra solar juice you send back to the grid. The rate varies depending on your energy company and where you live.
• State-Based Rebates: Some states offer rebates for buying and installing solar panels or batteries.

Check with your local government to see what's up for grabs in your area. Your solar installer should also be able to help you navigate the rebate process.

Show Me the Money: How Much Can You Save with 24 Solar Panels?

How much you save depends on how much electricity you use, how big your system is, how much sun your roof gets, and the feed-in tariff you get for selling extra energy. But you can definitely expect to see a difference in your power bills.

Here's a rough idea:

• Lower Bills: You could cut your electricity bills by 50% to 100%, depending on your energy use and system size.
• Feed-in Tariff Income: Earn some extra cash by selling surplus solar energy back to the grid.

Over the life of the system (25+ years), you could save tens of thousands of dollars. To get a better idea of your potential savings, use an online solar savings calculator or chat with a solar installer. Calculate your savings today!

Picking the Right Gear: Solar Panels and Inverters

Choosing the right solar panels and inverter is key to getting the most out of your system and making it last. Keep these things in mind:

Solar Panel Checklist:

• Efficiency: Higher efficiency panels generate more power in a smaller space.
• Warranty: Go for panels with a good warranty (at least 10 years for defects and 25 years for performance).
• Temperature Coefficient: Lower is better – these panels handle the Aussie heat better.
• Brand Reputation: Do some digging and see what other people are saying about different brands.

Inverter Checklist:

• Type: Choose the right type of inverter for your needs (string, hybrid, or microinverter).
• Size: Make sure it's the right size for your solar panel array.
• Warranty: Look for inverters with a decent warranty (at least 5 years).
• Efficiency: Higher efficiency inverters convert more power.

Finding a Good Tradie: Choosing a Reputable Solar Installer

Getting a good solar installer is crucial for a smooth installation. Here are some tips:

• Get a Few Quotes: Compare prices from at least three different installers.
• Check Their Credentials: Make sure they're licensed and insured.
• Read the Reviews: See what other customers have to say.
• Ask About Experience: Choose someone who's done similar jobs before.
• Understand the Warranty: Know what's covered and for how long.
• CEC Accreditation: Go for a Clean Energy Council (CEC) accredited installer. They meet industry standards and know their stuff.

The Installation Process: What to Expect

Here's a quick rundown of how it all works:

1. Consultation and Site Assessment: The installer checks out your roof and energy needs.
2. System Design: They design a system that fits your requirements.
3. Permitting: They get the necessary approvals from your local council.
4. Installation: They install the panels, inverter, and other bits.
5. Inspection: The system gets checked to make sure it's safe.
6. Commissioning: The system is switched on and connected to the grid.

Keeping Things Running Smoothly: Solar Panel Maintenance

Solar panel systems don't need much looking after, but it's a good idea to:

• Keep the Panels Clean: Hose them down every now and then to get rid of dirt and bird droppings.
• Monitor Performance: Check your inverter's display or online portal to make sure everything's working as it should.
• Get Regular Check-ups: Have a qualified technician inspect your system every few years.

Is 24 Solar Panels Right for You?

Figuring out if a 24-solar panel system is the right fit depends on how much energy you use and how much roof space you have. Think about these things:

• Assess Your Energy Needs: Look at your past electricity bills to see how much you use.
• Check Your Roof Space: Make sure you have enough unshaded space for 24 panels.
• Future Energy Needs: If you're planning on getting an electric car or adding air conditioning, you might want a bigger system.

Conclusion

Investing in a 24-solar panel system can be a ripper idea for Aussie homeowners who want to save money on their power bills, boost their property value, and help the environment. By understanding the costs, taking advantage of rebates, and finding a good installer, you can make a smart decision and enjoy the benefits of solar power for years to come.

Ready to get started? Get 3 free, no-obligation quotes from trusted local solar installers today! You can also reach us at info@get3quote.com.au or visit our website Get3Quote for more information.