Is Solar Still Worth It in NSW in 2026?

A Cost, Savings & Rebate Breakdown for Homeowners

Is Solar Still Worth It in NSW in 2026? Costs, Rebates & Real Savings Explained

If you’re a NSW homeowner asking “Is solar still worth it in 2026?”, the short answer is yes, and for many households, it’s more valuable than ever.

Despite lower feed-in tariffs and gradual rebate reductions, rising electricity prices, smarter batteries, and better system efficiency mean solar continues to deliver strong returns across New South Wales.

This guide breaks down costs, rebates, savings, and real-world payback periods, so you can decide with confidence.

Why This Question Is Everywhere in 2026

Solar has matured. It’s no longer about if it works, it’s about whether it still stacks up financially in NSW conditions right now.

Here’s what’s changed:

Electricity prices remain volatile and high
Feed-in tariffs are lower than years past
Federal rebates are stepping down
Battery adoption is accelerating fast

Yet, NSW rooftops are still filling up. Let’s unpack why.

What Solar Costs in NSW in 2026

The upfront cost of solar has stabilised, even as technology improves.

Typical system pricing (after federal rebates):

6.6kW system: ~$5,000–$6,500
10kW system: ~$8,000–$10,000
Solar + battery: $12,000–$20,000+ (size dependent)

Thanks to the federal Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme, most NSW households still receive thousands off installation costs.

Note: that every property is different and costs will vary. MPV Solar can site and priovide a tailored solar quote.

Do Solar Rebates Still Exist in NSW in 2026?

Yes, but with important caveats.

Federal solar rebate (STCs)

Still available in 2026
Reduces system cost upfront
Decreases slightly each year until 2030

NSW-specific rebates:

No state rebate for solar panels
Battery incentives remain, but at lower levels than earlier years
Strata and apartment buildings can access dedicated NSW funding

Solar is still subsidised, but acting sooner locks in higher rebates.

Electricity Prices vs Solar Savings in NSW

Here’s the big one.

Average NSW electricity prices in 2026:

30–40+ cents per kWh (and climbing)

Typical solar savings:

$1,200–$2,500 per year (solar only)
$2,500–$4,000+ per year (solar + battery)

Why?

Self-consumption matters more than exports
Batteries let you avoid peak pricing
Smart inverters maximise daytime usage

Solar Payback Period in NSW (2026)

Most NSW homeowners see:

Solar-only payback: 3–5 years
Solar + battery payback: 6–9 years

With quality components, systems last 20–25+ years, meaning 15+ years of net savings after payback.

When Solar Makes the Most Sense in 2026

Solar is especially worth it if you:

Use power during the day (WFH, families, retirees)
Have high electricity bills
Plan to add a battery or EV charger
Want protection from future price rises

Even homes with modest usage still benefit — just with slightly longer payback periods.

Thinking About Solar? Talk to MPV Solar

Solar in 2026 isn’t about chasing high feed-in tariffs, it’s about taking control of rising electricity costs with a system designed for how NSW homes actually use power today. With federal rebates still available, improving technology, and electricity prices showing no signs of slowing, solar remains one of the smartest long-term upgrades you can make. The key is getting the right system size, quality components, and future-ready design, not just the cheapest quote.

At MPV Solar, we design solar systems specifically for NSW homes, factoring in 2026 rebates, real electricity usage, and future upgrades like batteries and EV charging. No shortcuts. No inflated promises. Just honest advice and systems built to perform long term.

Get your personalised solar quote from MPV Solar today and see exactly how much you could save on your power bills.

FAQs about if Solar is Still Worth It in 2026

Everything you need to know to determine whether Solar is stil worth it in 2026?

Is solar still worth installing in NSW in 2026?

Yes. For most NSW households, solar is still worth it in 2026 due to rising electricity prices and ongoing federal rebates. When systems are designed for self-consumption rather than exports, homeowners can achieve strong long-term savings.

Has the NSW solar rebate ended in 2026?

NSW does not offer a state rebate for solar panels in 2026. However, the federal solar rebate still applies nationwide and significantly reduces upfront system costs. NSW battery incentives are also still available, though at reduced levels.

How much can I save with solar in NSW in 2026?

Most NSW homeowners save between $1,200 and $2,500 per year with solar alone. Homes with batteries can save $2,500 to $4,000+ annually, depending on usage patterns and system size.

How long does it take for solar to pay for itself in NSW?

In 2026, the typical payback period in NSW is:

3–5 years for solar-only systems
6–9 years for solar plus battery systems

After payback, ongoing electricity savings can continue for 15–20+ years.

Is solar still worth it without high feed-in tariffs?

Yes. In 2026, solar value comes from using your own energy, not exporting it. Lower feed-in tariffs make self-consumption, batteries, and smart system design more important — and more effective.

Are batteries worth adding to solar in NSW in 2026?

For many households, yes. Batteries allow you to store excess solar energy and avoid buying electricity during expensive peak periods. They’re especially worthwhile for homes with evening energy use or future EV charging plans.

MPV Solar is committed to providing industry-leading solar energy solutions across Sydney, backed by a proven track record of successfully completing over 5,000 projects. As a family-owned business, we prioritise personalised service and truly value our clients, ensuring that each system is tailored to meet your unique energy needs.