Solar Panels Now Boost Home Value by Over $23,000! Even Before Energy Bill Savings Kick In

According to the Australian Financial Review (6 October 2025), rooftop solar is no longer just about reducing energy costs. It has become one of the most valuable features a home can offer. Homes with rooftop solar are now selling for an average of $23,107 more than comparable homes without it, even before counting the thousands saved on electricity bills. In South Australia, where more than 40% of homes already have rooftop solar, this finding reflects what SunEnergy has seen firsthand. Chantha Lake, Managing Director of SunEnergy, says the increase in value shows how buyers’ expectations have evolved. “Solar is no longer a ‘nice to have.’ It is a deal-maker, something buyers expect. It cuts costs, adds value, and shows the home is built for the future.”

💡 What the Data Says

The research, conducted by property data firm Cotality, analysed over 6 million property sales nationwide and found:

  • Hobart saw the highest premium, up to $30,459 for homes with solar
  • Brisbane followed closely, while
  • Sydney and Melbourne homes saw premiums of $19,000–$24,000
  • The solar premium was consistent across income levels and property types

In South Australia, where the combination of high energy prices and abundant sunshine makes solar an easy choice, this trend is continuing to accelerate.

💰 The Numbers Just Add Up

A standard 6kW rooftop solar system in Australia costs around $5,800 after government rebates, according to Solar Choice CEO Jeff Sykes. Even a 10kW system, more suited to larger homes, averages around $9,130.

With a $23,107 average value uplift, homeowners are potentially profiting $13,977–$17,307 from solar at resale, without even counting energy savings, which typically cover the cost of the system within 3–5 years.

“For many families, it’s the only home improvement that pays for itself twice! First in savings, then again when you sell,” says Chantha.

🔋 Batteries Are the Next Big Thing

While the report focused on solar, batteries are increasingly seen as the next high-value home upgrade.

Federal and SA subsidies now cover up to 50% off battery installation costs, slashing upfront prices by thousands.

SunEnergy customers can access:

  • The Federal Battery Rebate (up to $372 per usable kWh)
  • The South Australian VPP Rebate (up to $2,000)
  • Ongoing earnings through Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) and energy trading platforms

🏡 The Rise of Energy-Efficient Homes

The Cotality study also showed that buyers are willing to pay an average of $10,560 more for each additional energy star rating under NatHERS (the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme).

In South Australia, where many older homes rate just one or two stars, the opportunity to retrofit for better efficiency through insulation, glazing, and renewable energy is significant.

Turn Your Roof Into a Long-Term Asset

If you are a South Australian homeowner, adding solar is not just about lowering energy bills. It is also a way to increase your property’s value and future-proof your lifestyle.

SunEnergy offers:

  • No upfront cost solar through our Pay As You Save (PAYS) program, allowing you to own the system in five years
  • Fully maintained solar and battery subscriptions via SunPlus, ideal for those wanting flexibility
  • Outright purchase options with access to all available rebates

Whether you plan to stay long-term or sell in a few years, the numbers are clear: solar is a smart investment.

Ready to see what solar could do for your home?

📩 Book a free consultation today and let our local South Australian team show you how easy it is to get started.

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