How to read a solar quote: the 8 line items that matter

Why solar quotes look so different

Three CEC-accredited installers quoting a 6.6 kW Adelaide system can come back at $5,200, $7,400, and $8,900 - all technically the same system size. The difference is almost never the panels alone; it is the combination of these 8 factors.

1. Panel brand and model

Four panel brands at the 470W class can have $1,400 of price difference per 6.6 kW array. Always note exact model: 'REC Alpha Pure-R 470W' beats 'Tier 1 monocrystalline 470W'. Check the model against the CEC Approved Product List.

2. Inverter brand and model

Fronius and Enphase are at the top of the range; Sungrow and GoodWe in the middle; off-brand Chinese inverters at the bottom. The premium between top-tier and bottom-tier inverter on a 5 kW system is approximately $1,000-$1,500.

3. Mounting hardware

Marine-grade mounting for coastal installs (within 3 km of the coast) adds $300-$500. Tile-roof hooks add $200-$500 vs tin roof. Premium rail systems (Clenergy SunFix, Esdec FlatFix) cost more than budget rails.

4. Workmanship warranty

A 5-year workmanship warranty is standard. 10-year workmanship indicates a more confident installer (and is sometimes priced 10-15% higher). 'Lifetime warranty' is usually marketing fluff unless backed by an insurer.

5. STC rebate claim

Verify the STC rebate is itemised on the quote. STC count x ~$35 should approximately match the discount shown. If the discount is much smaller than that maths, the installer is pocketing the difference.

6. SAPN application fee

SAPN application is typically included by the installer (no extra fee). Watch for quotes that exclude it - it should not be more than $100-$300 if separately itemised.

7. Switchboard upgrade

Many older Adelaide homes have switchboards that fail current standards. If your installer flags this, a switchboard upgrade is $600-$1,500. It's a real cost - the cheap quote that doesn't mention it usually discovers it on install day.

8. Site visit and design

A proper Adelaide solar quote includes a site visit (or detailed satellite + roof-pitch survey). A quote done entirely over the phone with no site assessment will miss obstructions, roof issues, and switchboard problems. The quality installers absorb the site-visit cost - the budget ones skip it.

Comparing your 3 quotes

1. Lay them side-by-side on these 8 line items.
2. Strike out any quote that doesn't itemise the STC rebate.
3. Strike out any quote with components not on the CEC Approved Product List.
4. Of the remaining quotes, pick based on installer reputation, warranty wording, and brand fit - not lowest price.
5. The middle of 3 quotes is usually the right pick.