How much does a 13kW solar system cost?
The cost for a 13kW solar system is $11,700 to $15,900. This price is inclusive of the government rebate and GST.
The system’s actual cost will vary widely depending on location, brand, quality, inverter type, and the solar provider you choose.
Below is a table showing the price of a 13kW solar system in different cities in Australia.
Price ranges for 13kW solar systems
| Solar panel type | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Budget System | $11,700 |
| Mid-Range System | $13,700 |
| Premium System | $15,900+ |
Power output and energy generation of a 13kW solar system
A 13kW solar system generates about 50kWh to 55kWh of energy per day. The exact amount of energy the system generates will depend on your location and other factors, such as the weather and solar panel orientation. For instance, the system will generate less power in the winter and more power in the summer.
13kW solar system output in major cities in Australia
Here is a table showing the amount of electricity an 13kW solar system can generate in different cities in Australia.
| City/State | Daily Power Production (kWh) | Annual Power Production (kWh) |
|---|---|---|
| Brisbane, QLD | 54.60 | 19,929 |
| Sydney, NSW | 50.70 | 18,506 |
| Perth, WA | 57.20 | 20,878 |
| Melbourne, VIC | 46.80 | 17,082 |
| Adelaide, SA | 54.60 | 19,929 |
| Hobart, TAS | 45.50 | 16,608 |
| Canberra, ACT | 55.90 | 20,404 |
| Darwin, NT | 57.20 | 20,878 |
How many solar panels do I need for a 13kW solar system?
A 13kW solar system can be made up of anywhere between 30 and 40 solar panels, depending on their wattage. For instance, you can use 35, 370W solar panels to make up a 13kW solar system.
Formula:
13,000 Watts / 370W (panel size) = 35 panels
Here are common solar panel sizes that can make up a 13kW solar system:
- 330W x 40 (solar panels) = 13.20kW
- 350W x 37 (solar panels) = 12.95kW
- 370W x 35 (solar panels) = 12.95kW
- 390W x 34 (solar panels) = 13.26kW
- 400W x 33 (solar panels) = 13.20kW
- 420W x 31 (solar panels) = 13.02kW
- 450W x 29 (solar panels) = 13.05kW
- 480W x 27 (solar panels) = 12.96kW
- 500W x 26 (solar panels) = 13.00kW
Depending on the amount of roof space you have, you can use more lower-efficiency panels or fewer higher-efficiency panels to make up your 13kW solar system.
Roof space requirements for a 13kW solar system
Typically, the amount of roof space required for your 13kW solar system will depend on the size (wattage), layout, and design of your solar panels. Standard solar panels measure 1.6 m2 (1.6m x 1.0 m), but bigger panels measure 1.75 m2 (1.75m x 1.0m).
For example, each 370W solar panel measures approximately 1.75 m2. Therefore, if you use these panels, you will need about 61.25 square metres of roof space.
1.75 x 35 370-watt panels = 61.25 m2 of roof space
Higher efficiency panels will require less roof space.
Example:
1.75 x 26 500-watt panels = 45.5 m2 of roof space
Before committing to a 13kW solar system, assessing your available roof space and determining if it can accommodate the required number of panels is essential. Consulting with a solar installation professional can help you evaluate your property and design a system that fits your space and energy needs.
👉 Pro tip: For more information on sizing a system for your needs, see our Solar System Sizing Guide.
Comparing savings and payback periods
A 13kWh system has the potential to pay you back within a few short years and become an asset thereafter. With a warranty period of 25 years, electricity prices won’t be an issue for a while to come.
How much can a 13kW solar system save me?
The potential savings and payback periods for a 13kW solar system depend on your energy consumption, electricity rates, and system price. A household with high energy usage and a 13kW solar system can expect to save approximately $1,000 to $1,300 each quarter, or between $4,000 and $5,200 a year.
The exact amount your 13kW solar system can save you will depend on how much solar energy you can use at the time of generation. The more power you use, the higher your savings will be.
Typically, you will save between 22 and 30 cents per kWh, depending on the cost of power in your area. And if you send excess energy to the grid, you will be paid about 5 to 13 cents per kWh, depending on your electricity retailer.
Payback period and return on investment
The typical payback period for a 13kW solar system ranges from 3 to 6 years. After this period, you will be able to enjoy free electricity until your solar system expires.
It’s essential to consider the long-term benefits when comparing different solar system options. A higher initial investment may result in more significant savings over time, especially if you opt for a more efficient system with better components. Additionally, selling excess energy back to the grid can further reduce your electricity bills and increase your overall savings.
13kW solar system with battery price
If you use about 30% of the energy your solar system produces during the day, you will need to store the remaining 70% to use at night during power outages and overcast days.
That said, you will need a battery with a capacity of 35kWh for your 13kW solar system to store the excess energy.
And since the cost of battery systems in Australia ranges between $800 and $2,000, your 35kWh solar battery will cost around $28,000 to $70,000, depending on its type and quality.
Your 13kW solar system with a battery will therefore cost between $42,050 and $84,050.
Maintenance and warranty considerations
Maintenance and warranty options are essential considerations when investing in a 13kW solar system, as they ensure long-term efficiency and peace of mind. Proper upkeep of solar panels can extend their lifespan to a minimum of 25 years. Most solar panels have an estimated output warranty of 20–25 years, providing assurance and protection for your investment.
It’s essential to be aware of the potential disadvantages of low-cost solar panels, such as lower long-term durability and instances of failure in Australia’s extreme climate. Investing in a system with a robust warranty and maintenance plan can ensure optimal performance and protect your investment in the long run.
FAQ's
Based on the advice of experts, a 13kW solar system may be worth it if you are consuming more than 40kWh per day.
If you consume less power, a smaller system might be more appropriate. Thus, it depends on your specific energy consumption habits.
Keep in mind that investing in high-quality panels and a reputable inverter brand will likely result in better performance and a longer service life.
With a 13.2kW solar system, you can expect to generate an average of up to 52 to 58kWh of energy each day. This is enough electricity to power several homes and businesses.
A 13.2kW solar system is composed of 30 to 45 panels, but the exact number will depend on the capacity or wattage of the panels.
