What every solar quote should include
| Item | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Panels | Brand, model number, wattage and number of panels. Check they are on the Clean Energy Council approved list. |
| Inverter | Brand, model and capacity in kW. Note whether it is hybrid, which can take a battery later. |
| System size | Panel capacity in kW and inverter capacity in kW, written separately. |
| STC discount | The number of STCs and the dollar amount taken off. |
| Installation | Roof type, mounting, any tilt frames, cabling route and switchboard work. |
| Extras | Meter change, switchboard upgrade, monitoring, export limiting. Each should be priced or marked as included. |
| Warranties | Panel product and performance years, inverter years, and the installer's workmanship warranty. |
| Output estimate | Expected yearly kWh for your roof, and how it was worked out. |
| Payment terms | Deposit, when the balance is due, and any finance terms in full. |
How to compare quotes fairly
Work out the price per watt
Divide the price by the panel capacity in watts. In October 2026 a standard 6 kW system averaged $1.05 a watt nationally. See solar costs by city.
Check the extras
Switchboard upgrades and meter changes can add hundreds of dollars. A quote that leaves them out is not cheaper if you pay them later.
Check the installer
Look up the installer's accreditation and the retailer's standing. See how to choose an installer.
Red flags in a solar quote
- A price only valid if you sign today.
- No brand or model named for panels or inverter, just "tier 1".
- Savings claims that assume you export everything at a high feed-in tariff.
- A large deposit before the network has approved the connection.
- "Free" solar or government schemes that turn out to be finance with fees.
Unsolicited sales
Under Australian Consumer Law, an agreement made with a door-to-door seller or cold caller has a 10 business day cooling-off period, and the seller cannot take payment or start work in that time. Report misleading conduct to the ACCC or your state consumer agency.
Common questions
At least three, for the same system size, so you can compare components, extras and warranties as well as price.
In October 2026 the national average for a standard 6 kW system was about $1.05 a watt installed after STCs, according to the Solar Choice Price Index. Smaller systems cost more per watt and bigger ones less.
A modest deposit is normal. Be wary of large deposits before the network has approved your connection, and never pay during the cooling-off period on an unsolicited sale.
Sources
Rules and program details come from government sources. Prices are industry averages, named and dated where used. Last checked October 2026. Prices include GST unless we say otherwise.