10kw solar system

10kW solar systems: Price, size and power output

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Installing solar panels is one of the wisest long-term investments Australians can make, especially as electricity prices continue to soar. If your home consumes a lot of energy, then you’ll need to think about installing a solar system that can handle your specific needs.  

This Canstar Blue article investigates how a 10kW solar system can make all the difference and what you need to know before making the decision to invest in solar. 

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How many panels in a 10kW solar system?

Solar sizes are based on the system’s power output, which is measured in kilowatts (kW) and kilowatt hours (kWh).

10kW solar systems are considered to be big in Australia, at least for residential purposes. Depending on the make and model of the panel, a 10kW solar system will typically have up to 24 solar panels, according to Solar Quotes.

Given the number of solar panels needed for this size system, you should have a general idea of how large your roof space is and which direction it faces. Despite 10kW solar systems being on the larger side, they are a popular option for homes with four or more bedrooms. With a lot of panels comes a lot of power, which tends to mean smaller energy bills.

What size inverter for a 10kW solar system?

Choosing the correct sized solar inverter for your solar system is important for its overall efficiency. Ideal Solar suggests selecting an inverter that can handle potential expansion for times of slight power increases. So for a 10kW solar system, install an inverter with 10-20% more capacity. You can discuss inverter specifics with your solar installer when organising your solar system.

How many kWh does a 10kW solar system produce?

On average, the solar panel output of a 10kW system produces around 40kWh of electricity per day. This can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the time of year and the weather. But assuming an average of 40kWh per day, that means that a 10kW solar system can generate around 14,600kWh of electricity per year – enough to power a four-bedroom home.

In Australia, the average residential home uses approximately 18 to 33kWh of electricity per day, so a 10kWh solar system producing around 40kWh of power a day could be better suited to a household with higher energy needs. Think families with two or more children, or two-storey homes with a pool, spa, central heating or other power-draining devices.

When deciding on the number of solar panels you need, it’s important to consider your roof’s direction and positioning as well as how much sunlight the panels will be able to absorb. You should also consider overall panel efficiency; if there are any nearby tree branches or other obstructions that could reduce production (like walls), this may impact what kind would work best for you.

Compare solar plans and prices

Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Ausgrid network in Sydney but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 3900kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.

Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Citipower network in Melbourne but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.

Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Energex network in Brisbane but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4600kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.

Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on SA Power network in Adelaide but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.

10kW solar system price

According to the National Solar Choice Price Index, the average price of a 10kW system in December 2024 is $9,120 Australia-wide: however, this can vary between states. Generally, you can expect to pay between $7,500 – $13,000 for a good quality 10kW solar system, factoring in available subsidies and rebates. That’s why it’s always worth speaking with multiple solar installers first and comparing quotes.

There are many factors that contribute to the upfront cost of solar, but three key things that will impact the price you pay are: your location, your chosen installer and the type of panel or brand you opt for. While it is a huge upfront cost, if you’re looking to significantly cut back on the amount you pay for electricity over many years, then it’s one of the best investments a homeowner can make.

Installing a 10kW solar system can drastically reduce your carbon footprint while also cutting back on those dreaded energy bills. Moreover, adding solar to your roof generally means increasing the value of your home.

10kW solar system with battery price

A Canstar Blue survey conducted between March and September 2024 revealed that the average cost of a solar battery in Australia is currently $5,516. However, according to Solar Quotes the most popular brands and models can cost between $11,000 and $15,500, including installation.

The overall price will depend on the brand of battery you go with, and the complexity of the installation. It will also depend on the battery size. For example, Solar Choice advises that low to medium users with a 10kW solar system will likely require a battery with up to 11kWh of capacity, if daily energy usage is under 20kWh. Heavier users may require up to 18kWh in battery capacity for the best return on their investment.

How much will a 10kW solar system save me?

The potential savings from a 10kW solar system depend on how much power you can use at home during generation (daylight hours). Another consideration is whether you’ll be exporting any electricity back to the grid for a rebate, and how much your power company is paying you for doing so, via what’s known as a solar feed-in tariff rate.

Solar Quotes estimate that a large home or business that uses all of its own solar can save up to $4,400 in the first year. However, it’s more likely that some energy from a 10kW system would be exported back to the grid in this scenario.

Given the larger size and output of a 10kW PV system, there are thousands of dollars in yearly savings up for grabs, provided you can shift the bulk of your power consumption to the day. You’ll also need to find out what type of energy tariff your home is on and ensure you’re paying a competitive electricity rate.

Your chosen solar panel installer should be able to provide you with an estimate of savings on your energy bills.

How long before a 10kW solar system pays for itself?

According to Solar Quotes, a 10kW solar system with 23 panels producing 40kWh with an original cost of $10,000 will take five years and 10 months to pay back. Where your property is located and positioned, how much power you use, whether or not you’re exporting electricity back to the grid, and if there are any rebates applied to the cost of your installation are all factors that will effect the payback period of your solar system. Generally, expect an average buyback period of five to six years.

Your preferred solar installer, as well as the make and model you choose, will also impact your buyback period. That’s why it’s essential to discuss your personal situation with your solar panel installer as they’ll be in the best position to give you a ballpark time frame. Remember to call around and explore your options by obtaining a handful of quotes, which are normally free of charge.

Should you get a 10kW solar system?

10kW solar systems are a great choice for many homeowners as they’re large enough to power most homes, but not so large that they’re excessively expensive. A 10kW solar system can typically offset most of a larger home’s electricity usage, making them a smart financial investment – provided you’ve done your research and applied it to your own personal situation.

If you’re looking for a clean, renewable energy source that can save you money on your energy bills, a 10kW solar system is certainly worth considering. Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as possible when dealing with solar installers, including the upfront costs, typical payback period, panel efficiency and suitability for your roof. By arming yourself with all this knowledge, you’ll be in the best position to make a confident purchase decision.

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Original reporting by Jared Mullane
Image Source: bombermoon/Shutterstock.com

Katrina Hasdell
Energy Content Producer
Katrina Hasdell is an Energy Content Producer at Canstar Blue, where she covers Australia’s retail energy market. Katrina is dedicated to providing consumers with easy-to-read information on their energy options so they can get better deals on electricity, solar power and more.

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