What should I check before buying a solar system?

A checklist before you sign:

• Compare quotes. For a battery with the Cheaper Home Batteries discount, the Australian Government recommends getting quotes from more than one retailer.
• See the discount clearly. For the battery discount, the retailer or installer must clearly show the discount against the price. The government says to ask for its value and when you’ll receive it.
• Check the warranties. Ask about manufacturer warranties and what the installer covers, and for how long.
• Ask about payback. The government also suggests asking for the anticipated payback period. Ask what it’s based on.
• Size it properly. Bigger isn’t always better. A battery too large for your solar or inverter can limit its benefits.
• Check accreditation. Only SAA-accredited designers and installers are eligible to take part in the scheme that provides small-scale technology certificates (STCs).
• Check the retailer. New Energy Tech Approved Sellers have signed up to the ACCC-authorised New Energy Tech Consumer Code.
• Be wary of door-knockers. In NSW, unsolicited door-knocking to sell upgrades under the Peak Demand Reduction Scheme has been banned since 12 September 2025.

As at November 2026.