Solar Power Calculator Australia 2026

Calculate your optimal solar system size, battery storage, and estimated savings based on your actual consumption.

Monthly Electricity Consumption

Enter your monthly kWh usage from your electricity bills (found on your bill or in your energy account).

Month 1
kWh
Month 2
kWh
Month 3
kWh

Location

Peak sun hours are averages for your city based on Bureau of Meteorology data.

days

How many days of battery backup you'd like without solar input.

Electricity Costs

$

Australian average is ~$0.30–$0.40/kWh. Check your latest bill for your exact rate.

%

Expected annual electricity price increase (AER historical average ~3%).

How the Solar Power Calculator Works

System Sizing

Solar panel capacity = (avg daily kWh ÷ peak sun hours) × 1.2 (20% buffer for losses, shading and degradation). Battery size = (avg daily kWh × backup days) ÷ 0.8 (80% depth of discharge). Inverter sized at 110% of solar capacity.

Peak Sun Hours

Peak sun hours represent the average daily solar irradiance in your city based on Bureau of Meteorology data. Darwin gets the most (~6 hrs/day); Hobart gets the least (~3.6 hrs/day).

Cost Estimates

System costs are estimated in AUD based on typical installed prices (including GST and labour): $3,500–$5,000/kW for solar, $1,200–$1,800/kWh for battery storage. Prices vary by installer and location.

Disclaimer

Results are estimates only. Actual system performance and costs vary based on roof orientation, shading, installer, and local conditions. Always obtain quotes from accredited installers (CEC accredited). This does not constitute financial advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big a solar system do I need for my home in Australia?
The average Australian household uses 15-25 kWh per day. A 6.6 kW system is the most popular size, generating approximately 22-30 kWh daily depending on your location. Larger households or those with pools and EV chargers may need 10-13 kW.

What is the payback period for solar panels in Australia?
Most residential solar systems in Australia pay for themselves in 3-5 years through electricity savings and feed-in tariffs. After payback, you enjoy free electricity for the remaining 20+ years of the system's life.

How much do solar panels cost in Australia in 2026?
A quality 6.6 kW solar system costs approximately $4,500-$7,000 after the federal STC rebate (Small-scale Technology Certificates). Prices vary by state, installer and panel brand. Larger systems of 10+ kW range from $7,000-$12,000.

What is the solar feed-in tariff in Australia?
Feed-in tariffs vary by state and retailer. In 2026, typical rates range from 3-10 cents per kWh for exported solar energy. Self-consuming your solar power (worth 25-35c/kWh in avoided electricity costs) is far more valuable than exporting.

Is a solar battery worth it in Australia?
A battery makes financial sense if your feed-in tariff is low and you use significant evening power. With battery costs of $8,000-$15,000 for 10-13 kWh, payback is typically 8-12 years. Use our Solar Battery ROI Calculator for a detailed analysis.

Related Calculators

Solar Battery ROI Calculator

EV Running Cost Calculator

Home Loan Calculator

Last updated: April 2026

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