A 6.6kW solar system is the most popular system size in Australia. The main reason for this is the fact that it will cover the electricity needs of the average household. In many cases, a solar panel of this size will be considered a very good investment.
So, what does a 6.6kW solar system cost, and what are the expected savings and rebates? In this guide, you will find all the information you need!
How many solar panels does a 6.6kW solar system require?
The average 6.6kW solar system will consist of 20 to 24 solar panels, although the exact number of panels will depend on the panel’s efficiency.
With highly effective 330 W panels, you might get away with just 20 panels. But if the panel efficiency is as low as 275 W, you will normally need 24 panels to get the same effect.
So, how much space will the system require? If you have 20 panels, this will typically cover 34 m2 of your roof. With a solar system consisting of 24 panels, around 41 m2 of the roof will be covered in panels.
What is the expected power output of this solar system?
If you have a 6.6kW solar system combined with a 5kW inverter, this will in most cases produce enough electricity to cover the average need of an Australian household.
However, the exact power output may vary depending on your location, season and factors like the orientation angle of the solar array. The power output may also be affected by shade cast from trees or buildings.
Here is the expected power output of a 6.6kW solar panel system in different Australian cities (per day):
| Sydney | 23-25 kWh |
| Perth | 26-29 kWh |
| Melbourne | 21-24 kWh |
| Hobart | 19-22 kWh |
| Darwin | 28-30 kWh |
| Canberra | 24-27 kWh |
| Brisbane | 25-27 kWh |
| Adelaide | 24-27 kWh |
Remember, the average daily output will usually be higher during the summer months. In the winter the expected energy output will be lower due to less sunlight.
Solar rebates for a solar system
When you invest in a solar panel system you will be able to receive a federal STC (Small-scale Technology Certificate) rebate. The bigger the size of your solar system, the more STCs you may expect to receive.
Each STC has a value, and this will be deducted from your installation costs. In addition to this, the number of STCs may be affected by your location. Because of this, the price of a 6.6kW solar system may vary from location to location.
How much does this system cost?
A 6.6kW solar panel system will cost you somewhere between $4,700 and $9,000. But remember, many different factors and variables will affect the total cost.
Here is an overview of the expected cost of a 6.6kW solar system in different Australian cities in 2024, after deducting the STC rebate:
| Sydney, New South Wales | $5,370 |
| Perth, Western Australia | $4,900 |
| Melbourne, Victoria | $5,420 |
| Hobart, Tasmania | $7,290 |
| Darwin, Northern Territory | $9,040 |
| Canberra, Australian Capital Territory | $5,730 |
| Brisbane, Queensland | $5,860 |
| Adelaide, South Australia | $4,770 |
As you might see, the installation costs are quite a bit higher in the Northern Territory compared to Western Australia or South Australia. But remember, in some areas, you might also get a local state rebate, which may reduce your costs significantly.
Besides the rebate, the price of a 6.6kW solar system will also depend on which installer and system you choose.
Savings and payback period
Although a 6.6kW solar system might be a big investment, even after deducting the rebates, you will usually earn the money back within a few years.
The reason for this is simple: You will reduce your electricity costs significantly, and you may sell surplus power and earn feed-in tariffs. Of course, the payback time will depend on many factors, such as location, power consumption and system efficiency.
However, in most cases, the expected payback period for a 6.6kW solar system is five years. On average, you may expect to save around $1,400 annually, thanks to lower electricity costs. This example is based on a $6,800 solar panel system and daily electricity use of 19 kWh.
The expected Return on Investment (ROI) is over 20%, and the lifetime savings might be as much as $50,000. In addition, you will be able to reduce your emissions with as much as 212.5 tonnes of CO2.
Do you want a 6.6kW system?
A 6.6kW solar system is considered the most popular option in Australia, as it may cover the energy consumption of the average household.
By installing a solar panel system, you may expect to save a significant amount of money over the years and at the same time reduce your carbon footprint. Find an installer today!