A to Z Guide to Solar Power in Adelaide
Costs, Benefits, and Installation Tips
I had my first Solar installation with AYKA and the process is seamless. Everything is done within 2 weeks since i signed the contract. Keep up the good work!
Albert Suharlie
With 30-40% of homes in Adelaide, South Australia, already equipped with rooftop solar panels, Adelaide is now at the forefront of solar adoption. AYKA Solar, with 8 years of experience in the industry, offers tailored solutions that ensure long-lasting performance and maximum returns. Here’s an in-depth guide to help you make the most informed decision for your solar installation needs.
Key Takeaways About Solar in Adelaide
Battery Storage
supported by the City of Adelaide’s rebate, batteries offer energy independence and resilience against outages.
Climate Suitability
Adelaide's Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and cold winters, makes it ideal for year-round solar performance.
System Size
6.6 kW systems (16–20 panels) dominate Adelaide rooftops due to their efficiency and affordability.
System Durability
AYKA Solar builds installations to withstand South Australia’s conditions for years, ensuring peace of mind!
Incentives
STCs rebates cover up to 30% of system costs, reducing upfront expenses significantly.
Sunlight Potential
Adelaide offers great solar potential with an average of 5.5 peak sun hours daily.
Payback Period
The average system pays for itself in 3.4 to 3.9 years, making solar an excellent investment.
Energy Savings
Self-consumption and feed-in tariffs help maximise your financial benefits.
Solar Power Potential in Adelaide
Adelaide, Australia’s third sunniest state capital after Perth and Brisbane, boasts an average of 5.0 peak sun hours per day for solar panels installed on a north-facing roof. With its Mediterranean climate, Adelaide experiences hot summers (average high of 29.4°C in February) and cold winters (average low of 7.5°C in July), making it an ideal city for solar energy generation year-round. A 6 kW solar system installed on a north-facing roof at a 35° angle can generate approximately 30 kWh daily, totalling around 10,950 kWh annually. However, energy production varies with seasons, peaking in summer and reducing slightly during winter.
What is the estimated energy output per solar system in Adelaide?
Here is a table showing the estimated energy output of solar systems in Adelaide for various system sizes:
| System Size (kW) | Avg Daily Output (kWh) | Annual Output (kWh) |
|---|---|---|
| 3.0 kW | 10.9 kWh/day | 3,978 kWh/year |
| 4.0 kW | 14.4 kWh/day | 5,256 kWh/year |
| 5.0 kW | 18.2 kWh/day | 6,643 kWh/year |
| 6.6 kW | 24.0 kWh/day | 8,760 kWh/year |
| 7.0 kW | 24.5 kWh/day | 8,943 kWh/year |
| 10.0 kW | 36.3 kWh/day | 13,250 kWh/year |
| 13.3 kW | 48.2 kWh/day | 17,593 kWh/year |
Benefits of Your Savings with Solar Panels in Adelaide
Solar panel installation in Adelaide can be highly advantageous; thus, it is a wise decision for homeowners and businesses. Following are some of the key benefits:
Saving Money
High sunshine hours in Adelaide reduce your electricity bills significantly when you have solar panels installed. It pays off well with an initial investment and long-term savings from energy bills.
Increased Property Value
Installing solar panels can enhance the property value, and potential buyers are more interested in a home or property with solar systems installed.
Government Incentives
The South Australian government offers various incentives, also known as rebates and feed-in tariffs, to encourage the adoption of solar energy.
Energy Independence
When you generate your own electricity at home, you become less dependent on the power supply grid and more resilient to power outages and rising energy prices.
Low Maintenance
Solar panels require very low maintenance, mainly periodic cleaning and inspections, ensuring they operate efficiently for years.
Future-Proofing
Investing in solar panels prepares you for future advancements in solar technology and energy storage solutions.
Incentives, Rebates, and Benefits of Solar Power in Adelaide
Adelaide is at the forefront of embracing solar power, which offers a wide range of incentives, aka rebates. Nowadays, rebates are very important in reducing solar installation costs. And everybody should take this benefit. These programs, combined with the city’s high solar potential, make it an attractive location for adopting rooftop solar and battery storage solutions. Check out this detailed overview of the incentives, rebates, and benefits available
The Australian federal government has also encouraged the use of solar energy through its Renewable Energy Target framework, providing Small-scale Technology Certificates (STC), which are the main component of the drive to reduce initial installation costs.
- How STC Work:
STCs are financial incentives based on the expected renewable energy output of a solar PV system. They effectively lower the installation cost by approximately 30%. - Automatic Application:
You don’t need to take any extra steps to claim this benefit; the discount is generally applied directly by your installer as part of the quote.
Adelaide City Council further supports solar adoption with its Sustainability Incentive Scheme, which offers rebates for solar PV panels and energy storage systems installed in eligible areas:
- Postcodes Covered: Rebates are available for installations in the 5000 and 5006 postcodes.
- Solar Rebate Details:
- A rebate of 20% of the installed cost of solar panels is available for eligible rooftops in the Central Business District (CBD) and North Adelaide.
- For energy storage systems connected to rooftop solar power, a rebate of 50% of the installation cost is offered, up to a maximum of $5,000.
Feed-in tariffs (FiTs) allow solar system owners to earn money for exporting excess solar energy back to the grid.
- Current Rates:
The amount paid depends on your electricity retailer and specific plan. You can use comparison tools like SolarQuotes to find the best offers. - Maximising Savings:
As solar power is generated using sunlight, it does not require many resources for energy generation and has no dependency on the power grid so that you can enjoy the maximum savings possible on electricity bills.
- Lower Electricity Usage:
Adelaide households have one of the lowest electricity consumption rates in Australia, with an average 3-person household using 6,080 kWh per year if not using gas. However, winter consumption tends to be 20% higher than in summer.
High Electricity Prices:
South Australia has the highest retail electricity prices in the country compared to other state.
Due to competitive pricing, government incentives, and the abundance of sunlight there, Adelaide is among the most affordable cities for installing solar systems. Solar system prices in Australia are some of the lowest in the world, thanks to large-scale production in Asia and an intensely competitive domestic market.
Here’s a comprehensive look at solar installation costs in Adelaide:
Solar Panel Prices and Installation Costs
Solar panel system installation costs in Adelaide depend on the system size, location, and energy requirements. Below are the average prices for solar panel systems, which include installation, the federal solar rebate (STCs), and GST:
System Size
Average Price (AUD)
3kW
$4,074
5kW
$5,370
6.6kW
$6,462
10kW
$9,790
15kW
$13,665
Current Solar System Prices (2024 Data)
- Typical Costs for a 6.6kW Solar System:
A 6.6kW system, the most popular size for Australian homes, typically costs between $5,500 and $8,500. This price range includes installation, the solar rebate (STCs), and GST.- Average Price for a 6kW System: As of March 2024, a 6kW system costs approximately $5,510 on average in Adelaide, including all incentives.
- Cost for Larger Systems:
- 10kW System: Around $9,110.
- 15kW System: Around $13,665.
Key Notes on Pricing
- Government Rebate Impact: The federal rebate, based on Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), can reduce the cost of a solar system by 30–40%, depending on system size and STC market prices.
- Additional Costs for Premium Systems: If you choose premium solar panels or components, expect to add at least 10% to the upper price range for any system size.
- Battery Storage: The prices listed above exclude battery storage. Adding a solar battery will increase the total cost significantly.
- Variability in Costs: Final pricing can vary due to factors like the roof’s complexity, the number of stories, system configuration, and location.
- AYKA Solar does not necessarily offer this price; this is just an average price point taken from surveys. AYKA Solar will not be responsible for price fluctuations or changes. We created these charts and tables to provide a basic idea of pricing, which can vary depending on factors such as roof structure, the number of stories, location, and other variables.
- Typical Costs for a 6.6kW Solar System:
How to choose a Reliable Installer
Everyone wants affordable products and services, but before choosing affordable products or services, it is important to search and invest in a reputable and experienced solar installer. Less expensive systems tend to either need to improve on the materials used or the quality of installation, which diminishes efficiency and increases maintenance problems later on. Spending a little money on a qualified installer will go a long way toward better performance, longevity, and dependability for post-installation support.
By understanding solar pricing and factors influencing costs, Adelaide residents can make informed decisions about adopting solar energy, maximising their savings, and contributing to a sustainable future.
Financial Return on Solar in Adelaide
Adelaide offers excellent financial returns for solar installations due to high electricity prices, generous government rebates, and abundant sunlight. By choosing the right system size and maximising energy usage efficiency, residents can achieve significant long-term savings with a short payback period.
The financial return for solar in Adelaide can vary based on multiple factors, like total output, system size, energy consumption, electricity prices, government incentives, and the amount of sunlight the area receives. However, on average, homeowners can expect the following:
System Costs
The cost of a typical solar panel system in Adelaide ranges from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the size (3 kW to 10 kW) and quality of the system.
Energy Savings
The average Adelaide household can save between $500 to $1,500 annually on electricity bills with a solar system.
Return on Investment
With a solar system, you can recover the cost within 4 to 7 years, and over 25 years, the total savings can range from $10,000 AUD to $30,000 AUD.
Government Incentives
In South Australia, there are government incentives such as rebates and the Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), which can reduce the upfront cost of solar installation
Feed-in Tariffs (FiT):
In Adelaide, homeowners can earn extra income through feed-in tariffs by selling excess electricity back to the grid.
Payback Period
After accounting for savings and incentives, the payback period for a solar system in Adelaide is generally between 4 to 7 years.
Optimising Solar Panel Installation for Adelaide Homes
In Adelaide, the angle of your roof is a key factor in finding how much energy your solar panels will generate. Typically, your roof’s natural angle is the best for installation as it avoids the additional costs and complexities of adjusting the angle using frames, which may also require council permission.
In Adelaide, the difference in energy production between a shallow 15-degree roof and a steeper 45-degree roof is minimal throughout the year.
- Shallow roofs (15°) are ideal for households with high summer air conditioning needs, while
- Steeper roofs (45°) work better for those who consume more power during the colder months, providing better performance in winter (up to 20% more energy in July), though about 9% less energy in summer (January).
The direction in which your solar panels face also affects their efficiency. Here’s how each orientation performs in Adelaide:
- North-facing panels generate the most electricity as they are positioned directly towards the sun’s optimal path.
- East-facing panels are more efficient in the mornings while west-facing solar panels can generate more in the afternoon. In general, east-facing panels provide slightly higher overall performance due to cooler morning temperatures.
- North-East or North-West facing panels generate about 5% less energy than directly north-facing panels but still offer a good option depending on your energy usage patterns.
Maximum System Size for Solar Installations in Adelaide
The maximum allowable solar system size in Adelaide depends on your electrical setup:
- Single-phase power: You can install up to a 10kW inverter with a 5kW export limit.
- Three-phase power: You can install a system up to 30kW, with a 15kW export limit.
If you want to install a system larger than 10kW, you will need to obtain council approval. This limit is based on inverter size rather than the total number of panels, allowing you to install more panels than the inverter’s capacity, a process known as oversizing.
Maximum System Size for Solar Installations in Adelaide
The maximum allowable solar system size in Adelaide depends on your electrical setup:
- Single-phase power: You can install up to a 10kW inverter with a 5kW export limit.
- Three-phase power: You can install a system up to 30kW, with a 15kW export limit.
If you want to install a system larger than 10kW, you will need to obtain council approval. This limit is based on inverter size rather than the total number of panels, allowing you to install more panels than the inverter’s capacity, a process known as oversizing.
Benefits of Oversizing Solar Systems
Many Adelaide households strategically oversize their systems by installing more solar panels than their inverters can handle. This approach enhances energy production during off-peak periods, such as mornings, evenings, or overcast days. Oversizing aligns solar generation with consumption patterns, boosting self-use and delivering faster financial payback along with better energy savings.
By selecting the right roof tilt, orientation, and panel dimensions, you can maximise solar energy output and financial returns in Adelaide. Considering these elements during system design ensures the best value for your investment.
South Australia has seen remarkable growth in solar adoption, with over 294,000 installations, primarily in Adelaide. The state ranks second nationally for solar installations per capita.
In South Australia’s energy mix, rooftop solar contributes around 9% of the state’s overall electricity consumption. During peak sunlight hours and lower energy demand, solar power has at times accounted for up to 77% of the state’s electricity supply. Looking ahead, rooftop solar is projected to meet the entire energy demand during certain periods within the next decade.
To avoid a solar nightmare, follow these key steps:
- Research Thoroughly: Compare solar brands, technologies, and reviews to find reliable products.
- Choose an Accredited Installer: Ensure your installer is Clean Energy Council accredited for quality and safety.
- Assess Your Energy Needs: Match your solar system size to your actual energy consumption to avoid under or overpaying.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain several quotes to understand market prices and ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
Proper planning and choosing trustworthy products and professionals will help ensure your solar investment is a success.
FAQ - Solar Panels in Adelaide, South Australia
In Adelaide, a solar panel system can vary between $3,000 and $10,000, depending on size and quality. Prices will always vary depending on the number of panels, the brand, and other additional features that come along with it, such as inverters or battery storage.
Yes, South Australian residents can benefit from government incentives such as rebates and the Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), which can reduce the upfront cost of installation by up to $6,000.
On average, solar panel systems in Adelaide can save between $500 and $1,500 annually on energy bills, which depends on your energy usage and the size of the system.
The size of your solar system should match your household’s energy needs. A typical home in Adelaide may require a system between 3 kW and 10 kW. We recommend reviewing your electricity bills to determine your consumption and choose the appropriate system size.
The payback period for a solar system in Adelaide is usually between 4 to 7 years. After this period, the system will continue to generate savings for many years, with solar panels often lasting 25 years or more.
Yes, in Adelaide, you can sell excess electricity back to the grid through feed-in tariffs. The rates typically range from 5 to 15 cents per kWh, depending on your energy retailer.
Most homes in Adelaide are suitable for solar panels, especially those with a roof that receives plenty of sunlight. An installer will assess factors like roof orientation, shading, and available space before recommending a system.
Solar panel installation typically takes 1 to 2 days, depending on the system size and the complexity of the installation. A professional
Solar panels require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning and ensuring the system is free of debris will help maintain performance. It’s also recommended to have your system inspected every 2-3 years by a professional to ensure everything is working efficiently.
Look for a Clean Energy Council-accredited installer with positive customer reviews and a strong reputation. Be sure to get multiple quotes and compare warranties and services to make an informed decision.
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