SolarHub, one of Canberra’s most recommended solar panel installers. Photo: SolarHub.
If you’re a homeowner tired of paying thousands of dollars a year for power, chances are you’ve thought about adding solar panels to your roof. With Canberra having so many sunny days a year, solar panels are a great way to reduce your energy bills and contribute to a brighter future. And while solar power has always been beneficial, today it’s more accessible and cost-effective than ever.
Solar panel installation isn’t a DIY activity, so if you want to take advantage of solar power in your home or business, you’ll need a professional solar panel installer to get the job done.
In this article, we’ll outline the qualities to consider when choosing a solar panel installer and share where to find the best in Canberra.
What makes a great solar panel installation company?
To protect your investment and get the most value from your solar panels, you’ll want to select an installer who has had proper training, has a great track record and is willing to provide advice on what suits your needs.
It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing a solar panel installation company:
- Licensed experts. There’s more to solar panel installation than whacking up panels on a roof. The best solar panel installers are green-energy experts and can guide you towards a purchase that works for your needs and budget. On top of this, licensing is key, as both retailers and installers must hold a government-issued electrical licence. Also note that only an ACT-licensed electrician can provide a certificate of compliance covering the system and electrical work. To check on the validity of your installer’s licence, visit Access Canberra’s list of licensed electricians.
- Friendly, respectful and professional. As with any customer-facing job, the best in the solar panel installation business treat customers with respect and get the job done to professional standards. They respond to queries efficiently, send quotes promptly and keep you informed as work progresses.
- Value for money. While solar panels are an investment, you should expect value for money with the company you choose. It’s a good idea to obtain a few quotes from several installers before making a final decision.
- Warranty. Be sure to check that the solar installation company you choose provides written warranties for products and services. Read these warranties carefully.
- Understanding government incentives. Depending on where you live, and your income, you may be eligible for government rebates or other incentives that could reduce the cost of solar panel installation. A great solar panel installation company is up to date with the latest incentives and can advise on how you can take advantage of them. You can also check government websites for offers.
Important essentials to check before engaging a solar installer
To ensure quality and professionalism, a couple of minutes spent checking the following will help to give you peace of mind:
- Confirm the provider runs a registered business through the Australian Business Registration website.
- Ensure the provider holds an appropriate electrical licence by checking the Access Canberra list of licensed electricians.
- Check that designers and installers are appropriately accredited by the peak industry body, the Clean Energy Council.
- Ensure all panels and inverters are approved by the Clean Energy Council.
- Verify the provider’s public liability insurance and level of cover.
- Be clear on contracted inclusions, terms and conditions.
The best solar panel installers in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and Facebook as well as maintained a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
ECG Electrical
ECG Electrical is proudly Canberran solar and electrical company, offering stellar service that you can rely on. With fair and honest pricing, a passion for serving the Canberran community, guaranteeing professionalism and friendliness, and making sure your needs are met every step of the way, ECG works hard to ensure that each and every job is delivered to the highest quality of workmanship.
Although only officially established in January of 2019, the folks at ECG have over ten years’ experience, making them experts in their field. You can trust their teams of well-trained labourers, technicians, apprentices and tradespeople with the safe installation of high-quality solar panels in your home, and be rest assured that once the job is completed, ECG will ensure that everything is working soundly, and do a thorough handover so that you fully understand your new system.
If your home presents unique challenges to having solar panels installed, ECG’s qualified technicians and certified solar installers can offer you a personalised system. Taking into account panel selection, placements and any required upgrades to your existing system, ECG will work hard with you to ensure that your purchase is just right for your home.
As happy customer Tony Barber writes in this Google review of their experience with ECG, “Very happy with the install of our new solar system through ECG electrical. They were affordable, efficient & reliable and did a great job, well done boys. We will be referring ECG to others.”
Huglo Solar
Huglo Solar is a full service solar provider based in Mitchell, ACT. Affectionately known as Canberra's 'energy mate', the company knows the region's needs inside and out, including how to install the best solar panel systems for its volatile climate.
The team of 15 is led by Tim, Lee and Justin, who together bring decades of combined experience in renewable energy, having also advised top 100 ASX companies on wind and solar renewables investment.
Huglo. Photo: Thomas Lucraft.
The organisation provides balanced advice to help reduce ongoing energy costs and improve energy independence, and every Huglo Solar technician is Clean Energy Council certified. They are true energy consultants with expert knowledge in residential and commercial solar and battery systems.
Focusing on custom deliverables that are tailored to client lifestyles, goals and power requirements, they also cover electric vehicle chargers, hot water heat pumps and split air conditioning systems.
Huglo even built their own independent comparison app, which helps Canberrans track down the best value plan for their electricity consumption and works towards a 'fair energy market' for Aussie homeowners. It does this by ranking every available plan in the local market objectively, strictly based on price and homeowners' preferences.
One such homeowner, Chastelle Bourne, was thrilled by her dealings with the Huglo team.
"Outstanding experience with Huglo Solar for the installation of our 13.2kW solar system," she says.
"Great communications throughout the process, great price and the system was installed and operating on the day promised without issues."
Mondiaux Solar
Mondiaux is a Canberra-based clean energy provider that has installed rooftop solar panels for homeowners and businesses since 2011. It uses leading solar panel brands like Risen, Sunpower and Jinko, which have longer warranty periods and are said to perform better than other brands.
Mondiaux's commitment to the Clean Energy Council Solar Retailer Code of Conduct provides a 10 year workmanship warranty, so you can expect high quality products, reasonable prices and work completed by certified installers to an exceptional standard.
Every project is customised to suit clients' unique energy needs and Mondiaux's comprehensive aftersales service ensures they're supported long after installation is complete.
In addition to solar panel installation, Mondiaux also specialises in battery storage systems, solar panel cleaning and EV charging infrastructure.
Mondiaux Solar recently attained the position of Number 1 Solar Business combined in the ACT, securing them a place among the Top 100 Solar Business in Australia by volume.
Read other success stories from recent Mondiaux projects.
As jormahome wrote on Riotact, "After 12 months of research i finally decided on MONDIAUX... Howard was excellent in his service before and after the installation. The installation was done in one day. Howard then spent time explaining and setting up my online account. He also has answered all my follow up questions."
SunBuilt Solar
SunBuilt Solar never compromises on quality. A local Clean Energy Council approved solar retailer, SunBuilt Solar sees customers through the transition to solar as seamlessly as possible, with direct and honest advice that saves money.
Services include selling and installing the best industry products, including photovoltaic (PV) solar panels and inverters, heat pump hot water systems, solar hot water systems, energy storage, and electric vehicle chargers. All installers are Clean Energy Council approved and provide great quality workmanship and attentive customer care.
SunBuilt Solar is committed to assisting Australian households to become more self-sufficient and less reliant on fossil fuels. Experienced, reliable consultants begin every project with a site evaluation and provide proactive advice on the best energy solutions for individual customer needs, accounting for Canberra’s diverse climate.
Beyond installation, SunBuilt Solar’s skilled team services PV solar panels and inverters, solar hot water and heat pump hot water systems, to provide maximum efficiency. They can put a maintenance plan in place to inspect and service every five years, or more often if required. This way, customers protect the longevity and efficiency of their solar systems.
SunBuilt Solar’s products are all reputable and have undergone extensive testing.
SunBuilt Solar, one of Canberra’s most recommended solar panel installers. Photo: Liv Cameron.
Sanny Saengmanee wrote on Google, “Happy with the whole process. SunBuilt gave the best price when comparing with other well-known solar company in Canberra. The installers were also great. Arrived on time and consulted with me first before completing the task on the day. Highly recommend.”
True Connection Electrical
Quality assurance, safety and compliance, and affordability are the three core values that govern full-service electrical and solar company, True Connection Electrical.
Based in Ngunnawal and servicing the ACT region, founder Tim and his team of licensed and certified technicians have a deep understanding of Canberra's unique climate and electrical needs.
True Connection Electrical specialises in residential solar and electrics, covering new installations, scheduled maintenance and emergency repairs.
"Whether it’s an electrical emergency or a planned project, we’re here to help, and we’ll never hesitate to go the extra mile to make sure you’re satisfied with the work we do," the team states online.
Truly passionate about the renewable energy industry, Tim and his staff offer residential, commercial and off-grid solar solutions, including battery systems installation and maintenance.
Electrical services include data and internet cabling, switchboard upgrades, split system air conditioning, smart home automation, and installations for appliances, lighting, ceiling and exhaust fans, smoke alarms, EV chargers, and more.
Every job is backed by True Connection Electrical's lifetime workmanship warranty.
The company is a recent Local Business Awards finalist for Canberra region, and has maintained a strong five stars on Google from over 350 reviews, like this one from Clare Thomas in early 2024:
"Tim was fantastic," she says.
"Realistic quote for a number of electrical jobs we needed done around the house. He was thorough, clean and tidy, and the work was to a high standard.
"As a family, across a number of homes, we have used True Connection Electrical three times now and would highly recommend."
Tim Middleton from True Connection Electrical, one of Canberra’s most recommended electricians.. Photo: Thomas Lucraft.
SolarHub
With more than 12,000 systems installed in Canberra and surroundings, and with 10 years of experience in the market, SolarHub is the largest Canberra-based solar and energy storage installer.
Not only does SolarHub source its solar panel products from reputable manufacturers like Q Cells and Sunpower, but it is also recognised as a SolarEdge Preferred Partner and a Tesla Powerwall Premium Installer. The company provides solutions for solar PV systems, energy storage, air conditioning, EV charging and efficient home appliances, only working with the best brands and technologies that SolarHub has itself tried and tested.
SolarHub has significant in-house workforce with electricians, apprentices and trade assistants for installation and maintenance, multiple engineers for system design and technical support, and a broad operations team to manage their large installation capacity.
SolarHub always takes the time required to ensure customers understand their needs and requirements. They work with you to design the best system for your budget. Customers can request a quote online and a renewable energy consultant will be in touch.
As Janet Jenista wrote on Google, “Friendly, efficient and thorough! We wanted solar panels installed and to support a local business - SolarHub was the logical choice. We are grateful to the team for their helpful explanations in the planning stages and timely updates during the installation process. They made it super easy.”
If you’re looking for more information on saving money through energy-efficiency measures at home or in your business, you might like our article on the best solar battery installers, the best commercial solar panel installers, the best solar panel cleaners and maintenance, the best electricians and the best insulation and double-glazing companies Canberra has to offer. As for electricity, check out our article on the best electricity providers in the region, or read through our energy-saving tips for Canberra homes and businesses.
Your experience with solar panel installers in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the solar panel installers listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I decide whether it’s worth investing in solar?
A professional solar panel installer will want to come on site to assess whether it’s worth it for you to invest in solar and, if so, how many and what type of panels best suit your property. They’re experts at customising solutions and helping you work out opportunities.
What size system should I choose for the most savings?
Sizing the right solar panel system is an area of expertise and involves much more than just looking at your electricity bill and picking a system that produces enough electricity to match your usage. A qualified, reputable and knowledgeable solar panel installer will look at many factors for you, including your home energy-usage patterns, the orientation and angle of your roof and even what utility company you use. With a range of data, they can then recommend the best options.
How can I assess whether a solar panel installation company is a good one?
You should do some homework. Check out their website for evidence of their qualifications, experience and track record. You can ask an assessor to come to your home to check out their professional approach and communications style (if they can’t explain your solar options in non-technical language, think about using another installer). Look online for reviews. Ask for references and testimonials. Compare several companies to see which gives you the most confidence.
Do solar panel installers have to be licensed and insured?
It’s critical that the solar panel installation company you choose has proper licensing and insurance. You’ll also want to choose a company that has extensive experience and a proven track record.
Are government rebates available?
A quality solar panel installer should be across any federal or state/territory government rebates in operation and should be able to advise you on these and point you to more detailed information online.
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