Between energy bill savings and the growing sustainable living movement, it’s become a top priority for many new homebuyers. But how does solar actually work when you’re starting from scratch and what do you need to know before installing a system?
We’ve rounded up the 10 most common solar questions for new builds, so you can plan ahead and get the most out of your new home.
1. Do solar panels still work when it’s cloudy?
Yes, solar panels don’t need direct sunlight to produce energy. They capture UV light, so they’ll still generate power on overcast days (just at a lower rate). To maximise this, many homeowners choose to add a battery to store extra energy generated during the day for use at night or during low-light periods.
2. Will I still receive a power bill if I install solar on my new home?
Yes, though it may be significantly reduced. Even with solar, most new homeowners will still receive bills for grid electricity used outside of peak solar hours (like at night) and standard service fees. The more efficient your system (and your usage) the lower your costs will be.
3. Will installing solar panels increase the value of my brand-new home?
A solar system can be an appealing feature for future buyers, particularly in communities focused on sustainability, like Kala., it’s a smart investment that can add long-term appeal and reduce running costs in the meantime.
4. How do I know what size system I’ll need for my new home?
It all comes down to your household energy habits. If you’re planning to grow your family, work from home, or run electric appliances throughout the day, you may benefit from a larger system or the addition of a battery. Tracking usage once you’ve moved in is the best way to fine-tune your setup, but if you want to get ahead, solar retailers often offer calculators based on your roof size and anticipated usage.
5. Can solar panels handle all weather conditions?
Yes, solar panels are designed to withstand extreme heat, wind and rain. Choosing a Clean Energy Council-accredited installer is key to ensuring your panels are mounted securely and can handle anything the weather throws at them.
6. How can I make the most of my solar setup from the start?
If you’re building new, you’ve got the advantage of planning your solar system from day one. That includes choosing a north-facing roofline, minimising shade from structures or trees and thinking about future battery upgrades. You can also look into joining a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) program, where homeowners share excess battery-stored solar energy to help stabilise the grid and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
7. What kind of maintenance do solar panels need?
Not much! A professional cleaning once a year helps keep them performing at their best by removing dust, leaves, or debris. Panels can last up to 25 years, while inverters may need replacing after 5 to 15 years depending on usage.
8. When is the best time to install solar?
Solar can be installed either during or after your build, but planning ahead pays off. When you’re working with your builder or architect, consider your roof’s orientation, future shading and space for batteries or inverters. Some builders offer solar packages as part of their inclusions, or you can install them post-handover to claim rebates directly.
9. My new home already includes solar, what do I need to know?
If your builder has included a solar system, check that it’s registered correctly and meets current safety standards. It’s also worth having it professionally inspected after handover to ensure everything is working efficiently, and that you’re set up to receive any applicable feed-in tariffs.
Don’t Miss Out on Victoria’s Solar Rebate!
In 2025, Victoria continues to offer generous rebates for eligible homeowners installing solar for the first time. As a new homebuyer at Kala, you may be able to access thousands in savings through the state’s Solar Homes Program.
Find out how to claim your solar rebate in our step-by-step guide.