Installing solar panels in Adelaide can significantly cut your power bills and protect you from rising electricity prices, thanks to our high sunshine levels and strong solar incentives. Before you commit, it’s worth asking a few key questions about your roof, system size, installer, warranties, and potential savings so you get the best long-term result. Here are 10 important questions to ask before installing solar panels in Adelaide.
1. Is My Roof Suitable for Solar Panels?
Your roof is suitable for solar if it has enough unshaded area, a solid structure, and a practical pitch and orientation. In Adelaide, a north-facing roof with minimal shade and a pitch between 15°–35° is ideal, but east and west-facing roofs can still perform well when matched to your usage patterns.
Your installer will also check the roof’s structural integrity, age, and material. If your roof needs repairs or replacement soon, it’s best to sort that out first. Solar Wholesalers can recommend the best panel placement for maximum output.
2. What Size Solar System Do I Need for My Home?
The main incentive available in South Australia is the national Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme. When you install an eligible solar PV system up to 100 kW, you create Small-scale Technology Certificates (STC). The number of certificates you receive depends on your system size, your climate zone, and the remaining deeming period.
In most cases, your installer handles the entire STC process for you. They create and sell the certificates, then pass the value back to you as an upfront discount. This reduces the initial cost of your system without any action required on your end.
To qualify, your system must be installed by a Solar Accreditation Australia accredited installer like Solar Wholesalers, and the panels and inverter used must appear on the approved product list. The scheme runs until 2030, and the deeming period reduces each year, so the number of certificates available for new systems gradually declines over time.
3. How Much Will My Solar System Cost in Adelaide?
A 6.6 kW system in Adelaide typically costs around $6,600 though prices can range from roughly $5,000 to $9,000 depending on panel quality, inverter brand, and whether the Small-scale Technology Certificate (STC) discount is already factored in.
Keep in mind that cheaper isn’t always better. Quality components and professional installation matter, especially when you’re looking at a 25-year investment. It’s worth getting multiple quotes and comparing what’s included, not just the bottom line price.
4. What Government Rebates/Incentives Are Available in South Australia?
The main incentive available across Australia is the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme, which provides Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). When you install an eligible solar PV system up to 100 kW, you create STCs based on your system size, climate zone, and the deeming period. These certificates are typically sold by your installer, and the value is discounted from your upfront cost.
5. Who Will Install My Solar Panels and Are They Accredited?
This is one of the most important questions you can ask. Not all solar installers are created equal, and poor installation can lead to underperformance, safety issues, or voided warranties.
Solar Wholesalers has been Adelaide’s most trusted solar company since 2008. We’re accredited by Solar Accreditation Australia, approved by New Energy Tech, a Silver member of the Smart Energy Council, and a Powerwall Premium Certified Installer. We’re also a Tesla Certified Installer, so you know you’re in experienced hands.
Always ask to see proof of accreditation and check reviews before committing to an installer.
What Kind of Warranty Do I Get on the Panels and Inverter?
A good solar package should include product warranties for panels and inverters plus a workmanship warranty for installation. Look for panel warranties of up to 20–25 years, inverter products around 10 years and at least 5–10 years on workmanship, so you’re protected if components fail or issues arise.
Solar Wholesalers stands by the quality of every system we install. Our 10-year workmanship warranty gives you peace of mind, and we only use brands like Canadian Solar and Fronius, which offer up to 25 years of product protection. It’s part of our commitment to delivering long-term value and dependable solar solutions.
Make sure you understand what’s covered under warranty and how long each component is protected. Panels, inverters, and installation should all have separate warranties.
7. How Much Can I Save on Electricity Bills?
A typical Adelaide household with a 6.6 kW solar system can often save around $1,500–$2,500 per year, depending on system size, energy habits, and how much power you use during the day instead of at night.
You’ll also earn credits through feed-in tariffs for exporting excess solar back to the grid. In South Australia, these rates are set by retailers and are voluntary, but most do pay. As of September 2025, some competitive feed-in tariffs include
- EngieSolar: 10c for the first 8 kWh per day, then 5.5c
- CovU Energy: 5.5c
- Energy Australia Solar Max: 8c for the first 10 kWh per day, then 3c
Choosing a retailer with a strong feed-in tariff and using a smart meter can help you maximise your savings
8. Should I Get a Solar Battery Now or Wait?
Adding a battery can greatly increase your self-consumption and reduce night-time grid usage, but it does add to upfront cost. If your budget allows and you value energy independence, installing a battery with your solar can make sense. Otherwise, you can install solar now and add a battery later.
Solar Wholesalers can help you weigh up the costs and benefits based on your household’s energy use.
9. How Do I Maintain My Solar System?
The good news? Solar panels require very little maintenance. They’re designed to withstand the elements and keep working year after year. That said, a bit of care goes a long way.
Dust, leaves, bird droppings, and grime can reduce your system’s efficiency by 5% to 15%. How often you need to clean depends on your environment:
- Roof pitch less than 15 degrees: Every 6 months
- Areas with frequent bird activity: Inspect every 3 months
- Roof pitch greater than 15 degrees: Every 12-18 months
When cleaning, always turn off the system first, use a soft sponge and clean water, and avoid harsh scrubbing or pressure washers. For a detailed guide, check out our article on how to clean solar panels on your roof.
Annual system checks by a professional can also catch any issues early and keep your warranty valid.
10. What Happens If I Move House?
Solar panels are a great selling point. Homes with solar energy systems often sell faster and for higher prices because buyers value lower power bills and sustainability.
If you’re renting, you’ll need landlord approval before installing solar panels. If you own and plan to move, you can either leave the system (it adds value) or, in rare cases, have it relocated, though this can be costly.
Most homeowners find that solar panels boost their property’s appeal and resale value, making it a smart long-term investment whether you stay or sell.
Ready to Go Solar in Adelaide?
Switching to solar energy is one of the best investments you can make for your home or business. But it pays to do your homework and ask the right questions before you commit.
As Adelaide’s most trusted solar company since 2008, Solar Wholesalers has helped thousands of South Australians make the switch with confidence. Our experienced solar and battery installers are here to answer your questions, assess your property, and design a system that fits your energy needs and budget.
Get in touch with us today and start saving on your power bills with clean, renewable solar energy.
