Is solar right for your home?

Your home 

• Which direction does your roof face?
  Solar panels work best on north-facing roofs, or can be split between the north-east and north-west sides. An east-west orientation will produce less electricity, and have lower returns, but can still be suitable.
  
  

• Will your roof get enough sun?
  To maximise solar generation, you want minimal shading on your roof during the day. Check for shade from trees, chimneys, nearby buildings or hills. Don’t worry so much about shade in the early morning or late in the day. 
  
  

• What angle does your roof have?
  The angle of most roofs will be fine for generating electricity. However, if your roof is flat, you may need to consider mounting racks which will add to the cost.  
  
  

• Is your roof in good condition?
  If it needs replacing or major maintenance in the next 10 years, get that done first to avoid the cost of removing and reinstalling solar panels. 
  
  

• How much space is there for panels?
  The amount of suitable roof or ground space affects what can be installed. The larger the solar system, the more space for solar panels you’ll need. 
  
  Plan your solar system 

Your lifestyle and energy use 

• Do you use most of your power during the day?

  Solar only works when there's daylight, so the more electricity you use during that time, the more you’ll save on bills. A battery can help maximise savings if you use a lot of power outside of daylight hours.
  
  View tips on shifting your energy use 
  
  

• Do you mainly run electric appliances?
  The more electrified your home is, the greater the savings from installing solar. If you’re still on gas, consider switching to electric hot water and heating ahead of going solar. 
  
  Plan your home energy upgrades 
  
  

• Do you have an EV?
  While not essential to solar, having an EV that you can charge during the day will make a good impact on lowering your power costs. 
  
  

• Do you have high annual electricity costs?
  The more electricity you use, the bigger your ideal solar system. If your annual power use is over $2,400, you're likely to benefit most from solar. 
  
  Planning your solar system 

Your future plans  

• Are you staying in your home for the next few years?
  Solar is a long-term investment, so sticking around means you’ll reap the full rewards.
  
  
• Are you planning any major renovations?
  Any major work that could change your roof or electrical wiring should happen before you go solar (and be done with solar in mind). 
  
  
• Are you building a new home? This is the ideal time to consider your appliances and solar together — electric appliances and a solar system will save you money from the day you move in. 

Your financial expectations  

• What’s your comfort zone?
  Solar can save you money over time, but the value depends on your situation. The shortest payback periods are generally around 7–8 years, but can be 10–12 years in other situations.
  
  You need to be comfortable with an upfront cost and waiting a few years for payback ahead of gaining long-term, steady savings.
  
  

  Calculate your payback and savings