6.6kW Residential Solar System
What is a 6.6kW Solar System?
A 6.6kW solar system is a popular choice for Australian households, especially in Sydney, because it provides an excellent balance between size, energy production, and cost. This system is well-suited for medium to large homes, generating enough electricity to cover the daily energy needs of most families. It typically consists of multiple solar panels that convert sunlight into usable electricity, helping you lower or even eliminate your power bills.
How Many Solar Panels Does a 6.6kW Solar System Have?
The number of panels in a 6.6kW system depends on the wattage of each panel. Typically, modern panels range from 440W to 500W in capacity. Here’s a breakdown:
| Panel Capacity | Number of Panels |
|---|---|
| 440W | 15 panels |
| 475W | 14 panels |
| 500W | 13panels |
Most systems today use panels in the 330W to 370W range, meaning you’ll likely need 18-20 panels for a 6.6kW system
How Much Electricity Does a 6.6kW Solar System Produce?
On average, a 6.6kW system generates 22 to 27 kWh of electricity per day, depending on factors like:
- Location and sunlight exposure
- Panel efficiency
- Tilt and orientation of the panels
- Weather conditions
For example, in sunny cities like Brisbane, a system can produce up to 27 kWh daily, whereas in cities with less sunshine like Hobart, it may produce closer to 19-22 kWh.
What Are the NSW Rebates for the 6.6kW Solar System?
In New South Wales (NSW), homeowners can benefit from several incentives:
- Federal SRES: This rebate reduces the cost based on the system size and your location. For a 6.6kW system, the rebate can cut costs by AUD 3,000 to AUD 4,000.
- Empowering Homes Program: This NSW-specific program offers interest-free loans for solar battery systems, making solar more accessible
How Long Will it Take for the System to Pay for Itself?
The payback period for a 6.6kW system is typically 3 to 5 years, depending on:
- Electricity savings: Households can save AUD 1,000 to AUD 2,000 annually, depending on energy consumption and feed-in tariffs.
- Installation cost: The lower the cost of installation, the quicker the payback period.
- Feed-in Tariffs: Selling excess electricity back to the grid can further shorten the payback period
What is the Cost of a 6.6kW Solar System?
The cost of a 7.7kW solar system in Australia can range between AUD 6,000 to AUD 11,000, depending on factors like the quality of the panels, the type of inverter, and the complexity of installation. Lower-end systems using less efficient panels and basic inverters will be on the cheaper side, while premium systems with high-efficiency panels and top-tier inverters are more expensive. Additionally, government rebates such as the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) can reduce the upfront cost by around AUD 2,500 to AUD 3,500, depending on the number of Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) available in your area
| System Tier | Estimated Price (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Budget | $2,700 |
| Standard | $3,200 |
| Premium | $3,500 |
This price includes the federal Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) rebate, which can lower the upfront cost significantly.
Inverter and System Performance
A 6.6kW system is typically paired with a 5kW inverter, as most Australian grid connections limit the inverter size to 5kW. However, this setup allows for “overclocking,” where the system can still generate more energy during low-demand times, such as early mornings and late afternoons.
Considerations for Battery Storage
Adding a battery to your solar system can improve energy independence, especially if you experience frequent blackouts or want to use stored solar power during peak electricity rates. The ideal battery size for a 6.6kW system is typically between 5 kWh and 13.5 kWh, depending on your household’s energy needs.
What Are the Cost Implications of Adding a Battery?
The cost of adding a battery to your 6.6kW system depends on its storage capacity. Batteries generally cost AUD 1,300 to AUD 2,000 per kWh of storage. For example, a 10kWh battery would add approximately AUD 13,000 to AUD 20,000 to your total system cost.
What Warranties Are Included with a 6.6kW System?
Most 6.6kW solar systems come with robust warranties, including:
Panel Warranty
Typically 10-25 years for performance guarantees.
Inverter Warranty
Generally 5-10 years.
Workmanship Warranty
Installers often provide a 5-10 year warranty on installation work
Ready to Install a 6.6kW Solar System?
Switching to solar is a smart investment for your home and the environment. Get started today by requesting a free, no-obligation quote from our certified solar installers. Maximize your savings with government rebates and reduce your carbon footprint.