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Is "Free Solar" With Your Build Really Free?

Many builders advertise "FREE solar" packages — but what does that actually include? Learn what questions to ask, who owns the system, whether rebates are included, and if the system size will actually suit your home.

6 min read·Compare My Build — Independent Resource

Cost estimates only: Any building or upgrade figures in this guide are indicative, not fixed prices or quotes. Costs and inclusions vary by project, supplier, location and time. Confirm current written prices and specifications directly with your builder, suppliers and relevant trades.

What "Free Solar" Usually Means

When a builder advertises "free solar," it typically means a solar system is included in the base price of the home — not that it's provided at zero additional cost above the house price. The solar inclusion is priced into the overall package.

Entry-level inclusions are common. Some builders partner with preferred solar suppliers and include a selected system. The size, brands and warranty terms vary, so ask for the actual written specification rather than assuming a standard size.

Watch Out

"Free solar" doesn't mean STCs are a separate cash payment to you. For eligible systems, the STC value is commonly assigned to the retailer or installer in exchange for a discount. Ask the builder to show how that value is reflected in the package price.

Typically Included

System size varies — check written specification
Selected inverter
Basic monitoring app
Grid-connected setup

Common Upgrades

Larger system (10kW+)
Premium inverter brand
Battery storage
Battery-ready wiring

Often Not Included

Home battery (e.g. Tesla Powerwall)
EV charger
Smart energy management
Panel cleaning kits

Questions To Ask Builders Before Signing

Before committing to a build that includes solar, use this checklist to make sure you understand exactly what you're receiving — and what it will cost to upgrade if needed.

What exact system size (kW) is included — panels, inverter, and brand?

How is the STC (Small-scale Technology Certificate) value applied to the solar price?

Do I own the system outright from settlement?

Is the inverter battery-compatible or 'battery-ready'?

Is monitoring hardware or app access included?

What feed-in tariff applies, and which retailer is recommended?

What is the upgrade cost to a larger system (e.g. 10kW or 13kW) during construction?

Is the included system suitable for ducted air conditioning or EV charging?

What warranties apply to panels and inverter?

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Is the Included System Actually Big Enough?

Modern homes use significantly more electricity than homes built 10–15 years ago. Ducted air conditioning, home offices, EV charging, pool pumps, and smart appliances all add to daily consumption — and a 3kW or 6.6kW system may not cover typical usage for an average Queensland family.

Household Type	Suggested System Size	Typical Usage Profile
Small household / apartment-style living	3–5kW	Low energy usage, minimal appliances, no EV or pool
Average family home	6.6kW	Standard appliances, split system A/C, moderate usage
Family home with ducted A/C	8–10kW	Higher energy demand, multiple A/C zones
Large family / EV charging / pool	10kW+	High consumption, charging loads, or future battery plans

System size recommendations vary based on energy usage, roof orientation, shading, network limits and local conditions. For SRES-eligible work, check that the installer is accredited by Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA).

Tip

If you plan to add ducted air conditioning, a pool, or charge an EV in the future — consider upgrading during construction. Compare construction-stage and post-handover supplier estimates. Roof access, system compatibility and warranties can affect total costs.

Feed-In Tariffs & Rebates Explained

Solar proposals may include several financial considerations. Check which incentives and conditions apply when you sign:

Feed-In Tariff (FiT)

This is the rate your electricity retailer pays for surplus solar energy you export to the grid. Rates vary by state and retailer, and have generally decreased in Australia over recent years. Comparing energy providers after installation is worth doing.

Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs)

STCs are tradable certificates created under the federal Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme. The customer commonly assigns them to the retailer or installer in exchange for an upfront discount. If solar is bundled into your build, ask for the STC value and the solar package price to be shown clearly.

System Ownership

Confirm in your contract that you own the solar system outright from settlement. This is standard in most new builds, but it's worth verifying — particularly if the builder uses a solar financing arrangement.

Check the Clean Energy Regulator for current STC eligibility, including eligible batteries, and confirm the current offer with your accredited installer. Battery incentives and eligibility are separate from the builder’s solar inclusion.

Should You Upgrade During Construction?

If you know you'll want a larger system — or plan to add an EV charger or battery in future — upgrading during construction almost always works out cheaper than retrofitting later. Here's why:

Scaffolding and roof access is already in place during construction — adding panels later requires separate site access

Wiring, conduit, and switchboard capacity can all be sized correctly from the start

Avoids potential mismatched panel brands or sizes between original and added panels

Eliminates a separate electrician call-out fee for future additions

Easier to plan battery storage and EV charger wiring during construction phase

Note

Ask your builder for a written upgrade price list for solar before you sign. This gives you a clear comparison and avoids being quoted higher rates after contracts are exchanged.

Explore More Home Building Guides

What Are Site Costs? →Site Costs Explained — What Builders Don't Tell You →Upgrade Costs Guide — Full Cost Ranges →Compare Builders Side-by-Side →

Frequently Asked Questions

All information is independently compiled as a general guide. Solar system requirements, network limits and incentives vary — confirm the current details with your builder and a Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) accredited installer before signing.