Solar is one of the best investments a Melbourne homeowner can make — but the terminology can be overwhelming. Here's everything you actually need to know before signing a quote, written by the electricians who install the systems.
System Size: What Do 6.6kW and 13kW Actually Mean? The kW rating refers to the total panel capacity on your roof. A 6.6kW system typically uses 15 to 17 panels and suits a household using 15 to 20 kWh per day. A 13kW system doubles that and is common for larger homes with ducted air conditioning, pool pumps or EV chargers.
Inverters: The Brain of Your System Panels generate DC electricity, but your home runs on AC. The inverter converts between them. In Victoria, you'll usually see single-phase inverters (5kW) for smaller systems or three-phase inverters (10kW+) for larger installs. The inverter is the component most likely to need replacing in 10 to 15 years, so choose a reputable brand with a local warranty.
Feed-In Tariffs (FITs): What You Get Paid When your panels produce more than you use, the excess flows back to the grid and your retailer pays you a feed-in tariff. In Victoria, FITs currently range from 3 to 7 cents per kWh. Don't choose a retailer based solely on FIT — a lower tariff with cheaper usage rates often works out better overall.
Export Limits: The 5kW Rule United Energy and other Victorian distributors limit most residential solar exports to 5kW per phase. If your system is larger, the inverter will automatically curtail (reduce) its output when exporting. This is why batteries are becoming popular — they store the excess instead of curtailing it.
Batteries: Are They Worth It? In 2026, a 10kWh battery system costs roughly $8,000 to $12,000 installed. The payback period is typically 8 to 12 years depending on your usage pattern. Batteries make the most sense if you're on a time-of-use tariff and can shift your consumption to the expensive evening peak. They also provide blackout protection if you choose a hybrid inverter with backup capability.
The Installation Process A standard residential solar install takes one to two days. We mount the racking, install the panels, run the DC cabling to the inverter, connect the inverter to your switchboard, and commission the system. You'll need a Smart Meter upgrade from your retailer, which we handle on your behalf.
What to look for in an installer: CEC accreditation, a Victorian electrical licence, and a written warranty covering panels (25 years), inverter (10 years), and workmanship (10 years). At ElecPlan, we hold all three and provide a detailed handover pack with monitoring app setup.