A smart solar decision starts before the first sales call. Know how much electricity your household uses and roughly how suitable your roof is, and you can ask better questions and compare quotes on a level playing field.
Step 1: Keep the proposed system comparable
Ask for the system size in kW, the number and model of panels, the inverter model, the roof layout and the shading assumptions. If the quotes propose different sizes, ask each installer why their size suits your electricity use.
Don’t compare the bottom-line price until you’ve checked what each proposal actually includes.
Step 2: Request an honest production estimate
Ask for the expected annual generation and how it changes through the year, plus the orientation, tilt and shading assumptions. Find out whether the claimed bill savings assume you use most of your solar directly.
A big forecast saving means little without a clear electricity tariff and a clear method for how much solar you’d use yourself.
Step 3: Compare the price you will really pay
Check the itemised scope, grid-connection work, possible switchboard upgrades, access costs, monitoring, commissioning and exclusions. Separate the price before incentives from the final amount you’d pay.
If you’re installing in 2027, check the rebates and certificate assumptions again at the time you buy.
Step 4: Understand warranties and service
Ask who handles faults, who supplies replacement equipment, and how product, performance and workmanship warranties differ. Find out what’s excluded and whether support is local or subcontracted.
Check the installer’s credentials and independent consumer guidance, rather than relying only on online reviews.
Step 5: Notice sales-pressure signals
Urgent deadlines, vague “government rebate ends tonight” claims, big deposits before clear paperwork, or a refusal to explain a savings forecast should all prompt questions.
You can ask for written clarification and take your time to compare. A credible supplier will be comfortable explaining why their recommendation suits your home.
An independent starting point
Before you hand your contact details to several sales teams, look at your household use, solar potential and indicative numbers first. That helps you decide what kind of quote to ask for, and whether you need one yet.
Understand your roof. Understand the numbers.
Generic savings claims can’t account for your roof, your electricity plan or your daily habits. EnergyBrain can give you an indicative solar report for your own home first, so you can decide whether a detailed design or installer quote is worth chasing. No pressure.
Frequently asked questions
Should I choose the lowest solar quote?
Not on price alone. Compare the equipment, design, exclusions, assumptions, installer credentials and support.
How do I tell if projected savings are realistic?
Ask what generation, daytime self-consumption, retail tariff, feed-in rate and modelling period they’ve assumed.
Can I investigate solar before contacting installers?
Yes. Consumer resources and indicative solar reports can help you learn the basics before you request quotes.
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Independent resources
Editorial note (October 2026): Financial examples are explanatory, not quotes or guaranteed savings. Rates, prices, rebates, installation requirements and incentives must be checked again for the date and location of any proposed installation. This article provides general information, not personalised financial advice.