Looking for serious solar power in Queensland? A 13kW solar system is considered to be on the larger scale of solar system sizes within the residential market. But is it the right size for you? 

In this guide, we will use real numbers and plain English to break down the costs, output, benefits, installation options, and beliefs about solar system sizing.

What is a Kilowatt?

The first thing we need to ask ourselves is, what even is a kilowatt? The solar industry promotes and markets that solar is all about a KW-rated size. With how much information and noise there is in this industry, we have found that it is very rare a homeowner stops and asks the question, “Well, what is a Kilowatt?”

Wattage is defined as an instantaneous measure of power. You have clicked on this blog to find out about a 13KW solar system. And all it is, is a group of panels that, for a split second in laboratory conditions under artificial light, can peak at 13KW. However, this measurement is not going to result in anything that you as a home owner is wanting to achieve in the way of savings. 

What Should We Focus On? 

The better metric for us to focus on is kilowatt hours (kWh). Kilowatt hour is a measure of peak power, but over time. As an example, a pool pump running at 1KW peak for 8 hours would be 8kWhs of energy usage. 

Your electricity bill mostly represents the price $/ per kWh. So, the better metric to focus on is how many kWhs you are using and how many kWhs a solar system will produce.

What Can a 13kW Solar System Produce?

This question raises some misconceptions. The industry implies that all systems based on their KW size will produce the same result. This is simply not true due to the many differing factors that make up a solar system. 

From an industry perspective, a 13KW system based on a north aspect should produce 55 kWhs average per day based on the DC input at standard testing conditions. Basically, what it will do in a laboratory is not necessarily what it will do on your roof.   

It is highly advised that whoever you choose to do business with on a solar installation purchases that you ask them these questions:

• How many kWhs will this system do? 
• Is this a correct amount of kWhs for my usage? 
• Can you show me previous install of yours doing this level of production? 
• Can the system easily or even remotely detect any failures of the system so I can produce my production levels? 

When Should I Consider a System size of 13KW? 

Opt for a 13KW system that has a capability of 50 – 55 kWhs of production, or any system that can produce this level of energy.  Systems of this level of generation is usually suitable for:

• Large family homes with day time usage
• Homes with pools, ducted Air Conditioning or EV Chargers 
• Small to medium business 
• Maybe some level of future proofing. 

The best thing would be to work with your solar provider. Here at REA Solar, our advisors will design systems around the home’s usage profile in kWhs and design results based on the client’s eager goals, also in kWhs. This approach allows for a more tailored bespoke design for the individual homeowner.  

13kW Solar System Price in Brisbane & QLD

So what’s the cost of a good 13kW solar system / or a system that can do similar energy production in Queensland? 

Based on the index pricing, you can expect to pay around $11,000–$15,000 for a premium 13kW solar system or a system that can produce similar energy without a battery, fully installed, including STC rebates.

Prices vary based on:

• Quality of panels and inverter
• Installation complexity
• System design and monitoring tools
  Whether you’re in metro Brisbane or a regional area 

What is the Return on Capital Investment

Payback on a solar system is based on many variables like: 

• How much power in kWhs do you use verses 
• How many kWhs does the solar system produce 
• How many kWhs is being used in the home verses 
• How many kWhs is being sold as export 
• What are your rates of export and rates of power

With a properly designed system that is procuring 100-120% of your average daily usage in kWhs, a solar system will reduce your bill by around 50-60% and provide a 4-5 year payback period. 

What if I want to reduce my bill even further than 60%? 

This is where we see homeowners go wrong. Trying to reduce your bill further than 60% is very, very difficult with just a solar setup. The reason for this is that the solar export rate in the last 5 years has gone from $0.18 per kWh to $0.05 per kWh. Moreover, the rate of power has gone from $0.25 per kWh to $0.34 per kWh ( this is one reason why kWhs are a more important metric ).

Installing a system that produces way more than you are using is fruitless, with the falling rates of exported power. The only way to reduce your bill further is through the insulation of battery storage. Here at REA, we have a range of battery options with: 

• Enphase IQ batteries 
• SigEnergy 
• Franklin WH 
• and our very own REA powerbank

Through the advent of battery storage, we can reduce bills up to 85% with payback periods of less than 7 years. Not to mention the peace of mind that grid backup redundancies can give you. 

Through some advanced design aspects, we can potently eliminate bills through a bespoke design and connect you to the wholesale energy market. Talk to us to find out more. 

What’s Included in a Good Solar Package? 

When comparing the 13kW solar system price QLD, ensure your quote includes:

• High-efficiency solar panels (400W or more)
• A quality inverter (Sungrow, Fronius, Enphase, etc.)
• Full installation by CEC-accredited electricians
• System monitoring app or dashboard
• 25-year panel performance warranty
• 10+ year of inverter and workmanship warranty

Ensure your provider has a detailed understanding of your needs. And they are not only trying to sell you a product. But instead, they are generally interested in understanding your unique circumstances to better serve you. Going with the lowest solar system price isn’t always the best move. Make sure you’re getting a system that lasts—and delivers.

Why Choose REA Solar & REA Power?

REA Solar is one of Queensland’s most trusted solar installers, known for delivering high-quality, CEC-approved installations with excellent aftercare. They design systems to suit your home or business, ensuring maximum output and long-term reliability.

When paired with REA Power solar panels and battery solutions, you get a robust, efficient solar setup made for Australian conditions. Whether you need a powerful residential system or a commercial-grade setup, REA provides seamless service from consultation to installation.

Our teams are based in Queensland and understand exactly what local properties need to get the most from solar.

Is 13kW Right for You?

Well, this is based on your usage profile and desired results. If you have any average daily usage of 40 – 60 KWhs a day, a 13KW DC system or a system that can produce 55 KWhs a day as an average would be a very suitable design. 

However, if your usage is only 25-35 kWhs a day, any system producing over 45 kWhs is overkill. Your best option is to meet with an energy advisor so they can understand your needs and design a system to meet those needs. 

At REA, all of our advisors are veterans in the solar industry with various electrical and technical backgrounds to better help you navigate this industry. 

Have Questions

Get in touch and one of our advisors would be more than happy to answer any questions. 

Get a Free Quote 

Ready to go solar? Please contact REA Solar or call 1300 563 458 for a custom quote that fits your property, budget, and energy goals.