Is it still worth getting solar in Australia in 2026?

By My Energy Mate Editorial · Last updated 24 August 2026

Quick Answer

Yes, but the economics have shifted from exporting to self-consumption. With feed-in tariffs near zero and grid prices high, a well-sized solar system pays back in 3-5 years; solar plus a rebated battery typically pays back in 5-8 years.

Feed-in tariffs have collapsed to 0-5 c/kWh in most states, so oversizing purely to export no longer pays. The value now comes from avoiding 30-45 c/kWh grid purchases: size the system to your daytime load plus battery charging.

The federal Cheaper Home Batteries program (roughly 30% off battery hardware) changed the maths in 2025-26: pairing storage with solar shifts your surplus into the evening peak instead of exporting it for cents.

Solar remains one of the highest-return home investments in Australia; the mistake to avoid is buying a bargain-basement system from a door-knocker rather than a quality system from an accredited local installer.

Go deeper: Home Batteries comparison table or the cost guide.