Australia has some of the highest rates of household solar uptake in the world, driven by strong sunlight, high electricity prices, and government incentive schemes. This page is a general explainer — not a quote, and it doesn't guarantee any saving.
How a home solar system works
A typical rooftop system converts sunlight into electricity via panels and an inverter, which is used in the home in real time or exported to the grid in exchange for a feed-in tariff. System size is usually chosen based on roof space, household usage patterns, and budget.
Panel types and efficiency
Monocrystalline panels are generally the most efficient and common choice for residential roofs, while polycrystalline panels are typically a lower-cost alternative with slightly lower efficiency. Panel wattage, warranty length, and degradation rate over time are all worth comparing across quotes rather than focusing on price alone.
What affects output
Roof orientation and tilt, shading from trees or neighbouring buildings, and your local climate all affect how much a system actually generates. A reputable installer should be able to model expected output for your specific address rather than quoting a generic figure.
Key takeaways
Home solar can meaningfully reduce grid electricity use over time, but actual savings depend on your usage patterns, system size, and location. See our guides on battery storage and rebates for the next steps.