SnapCalc

Solar Panel Savings Estimator

Estimate your solar panel savings, payback period, and feed-in tariff earnings based on your location and usage in Australia.

6.6kW is the most popular size in Australia

$

Net cost after STC rebate (typically $3,000–$4,000 off)

Check your electricity bill (kWh per day)

Cost per kWh from your electricity bill

What your retailer pays for exported solar

%

Portion of solar you use directly (vs. export). 30–50% typical.

How to Use

1. Select your state — solar irradiance varies significantly across Australia 2. Enter system size — 6.6kW is the sweet spot for most homes 3. Enter the net cost after the STC federal rebate (currently ~$3,000–$4,500 for 6.6kW) 4. Enter your daily electricity usage from your bill 5. Enter your tariff and feed-in tariff — check your latest bill 6. Estimate self-consumption — higher if you're home during the day or have a battery

2024 Incentives: The STC federal rebate still applies. Some states have additional rebates — check your state government website.

Formula

Daily Generation = Size × Peak Sun Hours × 0.80 | Annual Savings = Self-Consumed × Tariff + Exported × FiT

Frequently Asked Questions

What size solar system do I need?

A 6.6kW system is Australia's most popular — it fits on a standard roof and maximises the 5kW inverter (most common grid connection limit). For high users (>25kWh/day), consider 10kW+.

Is a battery worth it?

Currently marginal for most Australians. Batteries add $8,000–$15,000 but the feed-in tariff is low (5–10¢/kWh vs. 25–30¢/kWh you'd otherwise pay). Best suited if you have time-of-use tariffs or go off-grid.

What is the STC rebate?

Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) are the federal government rebate applied at point of sale. The value varies by location and system size — a 6.6kW in Sydney typically receives a ~$3,500 discount.

How long do solar panels last?

Quality panels carry 25-year performance warranties. Most degrade at 0.5–0.7% per year, so still produce 85%+ after 25 years. Inverters typically last 10–15 years.