Solar Panel Payback Periods Around Australia

Choice magazine in collaboration with the Alternative Technology Association have released a study examining the various payback periods for the installation of a 1.5kW solar system in each Australian State. The study highlights the effects of state government residential solar policy with particular reference to Gross versus Net feed in tariffs. The results of the study show that payback periods range from 5-6 years (NSW & ACT) to 45 years (TAS). This information is of particular significance as the number of companies advertising payback periods of 2-3 years are increasing. Such companies are misleading clients by ignoring a number of potential costs and changes due to location of install and access to government rebates.