2025 Review: PSW recognised as a top WA solar and battery installer

If you’re a family in Western Australia considering solar energy or adding a battery to reduce your power bills, one of your primary concerns might be: “Can I trust this installer to do the job correctly and be available for support in the future?”

The 2025 Solar Nerds Solaris Awards provide an independent, data-driven method to help you evaluate that decision. In their WA Awards Edition, PSW (Perth Solar Warehouse and PSW Energy) received a high ranking in implementation volume.

Top 2: 2nd in Western Australia for home battery installations: 10,398 kWh across 673 installs

Top 5: 4th in Western Australia for total solar installed (systems up to 100kW): 6,128 kW across 724 installs

Solar Nerds’ rankings are built from Clean Energy Regulator REC Registry data (the national certificates created for eligible solar and battery installs). In plain terms: it’s based on real installation activity, not marketing claims. Their WA Awards Edition also notes the figures are estimates derived from registry data, and that recorded dates can lag/shift because STC registrations don’t always match the exact install date.

It demonstrates scale—hundreds of households in Western Australia have chosen PSW. With 724 solar installations and 673 battery installations completed in a single year, this is a strong indication of consistent performance. It’s not just a one-time spike; there’s a steady output across homes week after week.
It showcases proven battery capability, where system design and commissioning quality are crucial. PSW ranked second statewide for battery volume, installing 10,398 kWh across 673 systems. This averages to about 15.5 kWh per battery installation, which aligns with the "whole-home evening coverage" that many families aim for.
It reflects that you are dealing with an installer operating in a mature and competitive market. In 2025, Western Australia added 269,913 kW of solar power across 30,678 systems and 339,587 kWh of battery capacity across 19,192 systems, indicating there is no shortage of options. In such a crowded market, a top-tier ranking helps distinguish installers with a proven track record from those still trying to establish themselves.

If your goal is lower bills and less dependence on the grid, PSW’s Solar Nerds recognition translates to a few practical advantages:

• Peace of mind: independent verification that PSW is doing meaningful volume in WA—not just a handful of jobs.
• Better “right-sizing”: experience across hundreds of homes improves the odds your system is sized to your household usage (not overpromised, not underspecified).
• One team for solar + battery: the report shows PSW is installing solar and batteries at similar scale, which matters because the best results come from designing them as one system

If you’re considering solar or a battery in 2026, bring a recent power bill (or two) and tell us what matters most—lowest bills, backup power, EV-readiness, or a blend. We’ll recommend a system size that fits your home and your goals, and we’ll explain the “why” in plain language.

Source:

Solar Nerds download— 2025 Awards Edition (Western Australia)

Solar Nerds article — PSW is a Top 5 Solar & Battery Installer

PSW Energy article — PSW ranks among WA’s top solar & battery installers (2025)

Perth Solar Warehouse Solar Nerds

Aiko Neostar Series 3: Worth paying extra, or just marketing?

If you’re considering the Aiko Neostar Series 3 in 2026, you’ve already moved past the initial question of whether to invest in solar energy. Now, you’re faced with a more challenging decision: “If I pay extra for a premium panel, will it really make a difference on my roof, or am I just purchasing a panel with better specifications?”

Neostar 3S is the “balanced premium” option with enhanced aesthetics: All-black design, 465–495W with up to 24.8% efficiency, using the same heat-behaviour spec (-0.26%/°C) and the same long warranty framing.
Neostar 3P is Aiko’s “roof-space weapon”: up to 500W and up to 25.0% module efficiency, positioned as a standard-format panel under 2m² (so you’re not forced into an oversized module to chase higher output).
If you’re paying extra, the specs that matter most in Australia are heat behaviour and output density, not just the headline watt number. Aiko explicitly positions both 3S and 3P at -0.26%/°C temperature coefficient and low stated degradation after year one.

Aiko’s market position is fairly blunt. It’s not trying to be a value panel. Neostar Series 3 is positioned as a high-output, high-efficiency residential module range that maintains a standard rooftop format, with long warranty coverage and low stated degradation.

This refresh focuses only on the 2026 Aiko Neostar Series 3 range (3S and 3P). Series 2 is treated as the 2025 generation and isn’t covered here.

For Australian homes, it’s essentially a two-choice decision in 2026:

1. Neostar 3S (475W): the “most aesthetic” for typical homes seeking all-around premium attributes. This is the choice for homeowners who want premium performance without designing the whole system around “maximum possible watts.” Aiko positions 3S with up to 24.8% efficiency and the same premium warranty and degradation schedule as the 3P. The key differentiator is the popular all-black design.

2. Neostar 3P (500 W): when roof space is tight, or you want maximum output per m². This is where Aiko’s 2026 flagship proposition gets disruptive. Aiko states its Neostar 3P 500W delivers 25% module efficiency in a standard format under 2m², i.e., you’re not forced into an oversized panel just to chase higher wattage.

	Model	Power	Efficiency	Temp COEF (°C)	Download
	Neostar 3S	• 475 W • 495 W	• 23.8% • 24.8%	-0.26%	Datasheet
	Neostar 3P	• 500 W	• 25.0%	-0.26%	Datasheet

Here’s the simplest way to evaluate whether a premium panel is “worth it” without getting lost in jargon. You’re paying for one (or more) of these outcomes:

1.

More solar from the same roof space.

If your usable roof area is the constraint, output density is the whole game. Aiko’s Gen 3 narrative is built around pushing power and efficiency while staying in a standard rooftop footprint.

2.

Better hot-day behaviour on paper.

In Australia, panels don’t operate at lab conditions. Aiko positions both 3S and 3P with a -0.26%/°C temperature coefficient, which is a direct “heat resilience” indicator in spec terms.

3.

Better tolerance of “small, annoying shade” at cell level.

Aiko markets its Partial Shading Optimisation as bypassing individual shaded cells (instead of sacrificing large sections of a panel as traditional bypass-diode zoning can), helping reduce the energy penalty from leaves, bird poop, antennas, or narrow shadow lines.

4.

Long-horizon confidence.

Premium only matters if it holds up over decades. Aiko positions Series 3 with a 25-year product warranty and 30-year performance warranty, plus a low stated degradation schedule (≤1% year one, then ≤0.35%/year).

If none of those outcomes applies to your home (plenty of roof space, short time horizon, no concern about heat behaviour), you may not extract the full value of paying extra. But if one of them is true, especially roof limitations, premium panels start to “change the result.”

Aiko’s Australian Series 3 positioning is consistent across 3S and 3P: 25-year product warranty, 30-year performance warranty, and low stated degradation (≤1% year one, then ≤0.35%/year).

On the datasheet side, Aiko’s published performance curve examples also reference 90.6% at year 25 and 88.85% at year 30.

Installation still matters here. A long manufacturer warranty is only “valuable” when the installer can diagnose issues, handle paperwork, and provide aftercare support. As an example, PSW’s Aiko package positioning is explicitly built around long-term coverage and local support.

Aiko is not a “new panel brand” in the usual sense. It was founded in 2009 as a solar cell manufacturer and later moved into modules, which is relevant because Neostar Series 3 is fundamentally a cell-technology product (back-contact/high-efficiency). AIKO operates three R&D centres (including Solarlab Europe in Freiburg, as well as centres in Zhuhai and Yiwu) and has invested heavily in R&D, with an extensive patent portfolio and ongoing advanced cell research beyond incremental upgrades.

On manufacturing, AIKO describes a scaled footprint with six major production bases, and independent industry reporting notes it has brought online additional n-type back-contact manufacturing capacity (including Jinan) tied to its high-efficiency roadmap. For a homeowner paying a premium, the takeaway is confidence in industrial-scale production, process control/traceability, and the likelihood of long-term product continuity.

Aiko Series 3 is typically priced above mainstream panels—by design. The more useful question is whether the premium meaningfully shifts your system design or long-term yield.

To ground this in a real Perth shopping context, Perth Solar Warehouse lists a 6.6 kW option with 14 × Aiko 475W Neostar 3S from $5,290+, plus inverter/battery as a base installed-array cost, after Zone3 STCs (solar subsidy). This general pricing translates to $802 kW for multiplication guidance.

This is not a substitute for a site-specific quote (roof faces, shading, switchboard, cable runs, and compliance items all matter), but it does reflect the reality: premium panels can still sit inside an “affordable system” when the full installed package is priced competitively.

Comparison costs: Alternative system size prices 3 kW, 6.6 kW, 10 kW or 13 kW, 19 kW

Build your ideal Aiko solar package with installed prices on PSW Energy: Aiko solar package – variable sizes ›

Sydney Launch Event: Derek McKercher, PSW Founder, unveiling the Aiko Neostar range in Australia.

If you’re paying extra for Aiko Neostar Series 3, the decision should hinge on what’s limiting your system design. On an unconstrained roof, most premium panels will feel “nice to have.” On a constrained roof (space, heat exposure, awkward roof geometry, or light shade), the right Series 3 choice can materially change the outcome because it’s built around output density, hot-weather behaviour, and partial shading optimisation.

1. Aiko Neostar 3S (All-Black, Mono-Glass, 475W)—The “balanced premium” outcome. Very high efficiency, with the same Series 3 heat and warranty attributes, yet a one-colour streamlined aesthetic for better building integration. Aiko positions Neostar 3S 475W at 23.8% efficiency, with a -0.26%/°C temperature coefficient, low degradation, and a 25-year product warranty and 30-year performance warranty. This is typically the premium solar panel selection when you have a reasonable roof area, and your goal is “high performance with improved visualisation,” rather than “max power per square metre at any cost.” The Neostar 3S is, without a doubt, the highest-performing all-black solar panel in Australia in 2026.

2. Aiko Neostar 3P (Mono-Glass, 500W)—You want Aiko’s maximum output per square metre in the Series 3 residential format. Aiko positions Neostar 3P 500W, up to 25.0% efficiency, with a -0.26%/°C temperature coefficient, low stated degradation, and a 25-year product / 30-year performance warranty. This is the “roof-space weapon” when you’re trying to: (1) push more kW onto limited roof faces, (2) keep the array footprint compact while staying high-output, or (3) make each panel count on complex roofs where you simply can’t fit “one more module.” AIKO also explicitly frames the 3P 500W as a standard-format panel under 2m² (the anti-oversized argument premium buyers care about).

If you’re still torn, default to this rule: if roof space is tight (or you’re trying to keep the array compact), go 3P; if roof space is workable and you want premium performance without over-optimising, go 3S. If you’re located in the greater Perth region of Western Australia, PSW sales support is happy to assist with turnkey Aiko solar package purchasing queries.

Aiko Solar Solar Panels

New solar and battery rules May 2026: The choices that matter

If you’re planning to install solar panels or add a battery in Perth or anywhere on Western Australia’s South West Interconnected System (SWIS), a rule change effective from 1 May 2026 will affect how your system connects and, more importantly, how it exports power back to the grid.

This change is not a “solar clampdown”; rather, it is a reset of the minimum technical requirements for export arrangements. The goal is to maintain network stability as rooftop solar use continues to grow. For homeowners, it’s helpful to understand the change in simple terms:

Starting 1 May 2026, you will still be able to install solar as usual. However, you will have to choose between two export pathways: a straightforward standard export option and a “future-ready” option that supports flexible exports and participation in virtual power plants (VPPs) once those products become available.

From 1 May 2026, updated connection rules apply to new or upgraded solar and battery devices on the SWIS.
The rules apply where total system capacity is under 30 kVA (this includes almost all residential installs; most homes are around 5 kVA).
If your solar or battery system was installed or upgraded before 1 May 2026, these changes do not apply to you.
Your day-to-day use at home stays the same (using solar during the day, charging a battery, running appliances).

WA’s rooftop solar is doing precisely what households want it to do: cutting bills and reducing emissions. But as penetration rises, the grid has to manage two technical realities.

First, large volumes of export in concentrated areas can stress local poles and wires. Second, solar output can swing quickly with passing clouds, which can complicate grid stability if the system isn’t managed in a coordinated way.

The updated rules aim to keep the “solar runway” open, so more homes can install solar and batteries, while reducing network risk and preparing the system for modern export products that can vary exports rather than locking every home into a single static setting forever.

Most homeowners don’t care about protocols or compliance acronyms. They care about three things: will solar still be worth it, will the install be delayed, and will it cost more. So here’s the choice-first framing that actually matters.

Pathway 1: Standard exports (simple, stable, no ongoing comms requirement)

If you prefer not to participate in flexible export products or VPP, or if your site can’t maintain a stable internet connection, you can stay on the standard export arrangement.

Under this option:

Your system can export up to a standard 1.5 kW limit.
You are not required to meet the new communications requirements.
Your personal use of solar (and batteries) is not affected.

For many households, this will remain the “set and forget” pathway: straightforward approvals, minimal moving parts, and a familiar export structure.

Pathway 2: Future-ready exports (flexible exports / VPP capability)

If you want the option to participate in flexible exports or Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) in the future, your system must be communications-capable. In simple terms, this means that your inverter [and, if installed, your battery] should be able to establish a secure communication pathway. This capability enables it to receive remote instructions to disconnect or reconnect during rare power system emergencies and supports dynamic export settings for future products.

It’s important to note that this does not mean someone is controlling your solar system on a daily basis. Instead, it indicates that your equipment meets a consistent baseline standard, enabling you to join new programs if you choose.

In most modern installations, communications capability is already standard. Where homeowners notice it is in practical site details, like:

1. Internet connection at the inverter location. Many inverters sit in garages, side passages, or external walls. If Wi-Fi is weak there, it doesn’t stop you from installing solar, but it may influence whether you choose standard exports or a gateway/connection solution.

2. The system’s default behaviour if connectivity drops. If communications are lost, devices default to a lower static export limit. When communications are restored, the flexible export capability can be automatically reapplied (depending on the product you’re enrolled in). Customers are not penalised simply because an energy retailer (Synergy) can’t communicate with their system.

3. Upgrades and legacy equipment. When you upgrade an existing solar system (for example, adding a battery or changing an inverter), the new requirements can apply. Many systems can be enabled through an inverter cloud/app configuration during commissioning. Some less common setups: mixed brands, multiple inverters, or older hardware that can’t be updated, may require a gateway device to achieve the required communications standard.

Electricity retailers are responsible for ensuring a site complies as part of approval, installation, and commissioning. For most Perth households, the retailer is Synergy.

Synergy is expected to update its connection requirements and installer guidance to reflect the new rules and to use the Common Smart Inverter Profile – Australia (CSIP-AUS) standard to communicate with solar and battery systems.

If you’re with a different retailer, they can adopt a different solution. The takeaway is the same: compliance is retailer-led, and your installer must design and commission the system to meet that retailer’s requirements.

From a homeowner’s perspective, the most significant risk isn’t the rules themselves; it’s choosing equipment that later proves incompatible with your retailer’s requirements, causing avoidable delays at commissioning or a last-minute change of plan.

That’s why the right approach in 2026 is “choose the export pathway first, then match the equipment.”

When you come to Perth Solar Warehouse for a quote, we’ll structure the conversation around your outcome.

We’ll confirm:

whether you’re installing or upgrading after 1 May 2026 (and what that triggers),
whether you want the standard export pathway or a future-ready pathway,
whether your site is realistically suited to communications capability (Wi-Fi reliability at the inverter location), and
whether your preferred inverter/battery model aligns with your retailer’s requirements so approval and commissioning stay smooth.

If you’re planning solar or a battery install on or after 1 May 2026, ask Perth Solar Warehouse for a “post-1 May SWIS export options check” to include with your quote. We’ll confirm the cleanest compliant pathway for your home, avoid commissioning surprises, and make sure you’re set up for the export option that fits your goals, now and later.

Compliance SWIS Synergy Western Power

Guide: Which Jinko Solar panels should you consider in 2026?

Ultimate Jinko Solar Panels Guide Perth WA

Jinko Solar remains one of the world’s highest-volume solar manufacturers, and its 2026 range in Australia is still clearly anchored around N-type TOPCon “Tiger Neo” modules. In practical homeowner terms, that’s good news: the mainstream options now have strong efficiency, good hot-weather behaviour, and long linear performance warranties, without drifting into “utility-scale” panel formats that don’t suit typical Perth rooftops.

N-type TOPCon remains the core Jinko residential platform in Australia
Dual-glass/bifacial can be worthwhile for durability and aesthetics, but energy “rear-side gains” are often modest on a standard pitched roof
Higher wattage is frequently a larger physical panel; compare efficiency and dimensions, not the headline W number

This 2026 refresh focuses on what actually matters for first-time solar buyers in Perth: roof fit, real performance in heat, warranty clarity, and avoiding mismatched “big panels” that can complicate inverter selection and future expandability.

2026 update: Jinko Neo 440W Satin is now the Tiger Neo 475W (all black, dual glass)

For Perth homeowners, Jinko’s “sweet spot” remains the rooftop-friendly Tiger Neo formats (typically 48-cell residential format, plus selected larger formats where roof mounting is limted). In 2026, you’ll also see newer datasheets referencing Jinko’s “HOT 3.0” platform in parts of the range, primarily focused on incremental reliability/efficiency improvements within the TOPCon architecture.

Reality check: a “bigger watt” panel is not automatically “better.” Sometimes it’s simply a physically larger module. A useful way to compare panels fairly is:

• Efficiency (%): more power from the same roof area.

• Dimensions: affects layout, handling, maintenance, and future expansion options.

• Temperature coefficient: how much output drops as the panel heats up (very relevant in Perth summer).

Model	Power	Efficiency	Temp COEF (°C)	Download
Tiger Neo 48HL4M-DB	475 W	23.77%	-0.29%	Datasheet
Tiger Neo 48HL4M-DV	475 W	23.77%	-0.29%	Datasheet
Tiger Neo 60HL4-V	510 W	23.60%	-0.29%	Datasheet

1. Tiger Neo 48HL4M-DB (all black, dual glass, ~450–475 W). For most Perth homes, this remains the clean “default” recommendation in 2026. It’s a modern N-type TOPCon module with a rooftop-friendly footprint, high efficiency, and a straightforward warranty structure for first-time buyers. All-black for enhanced aesthetics. Dimensions: 1762×1134×30 mm

2. Jinko Tiger Neo 48HL4M-DV (dual glass, ~450–475 W): Choose this when you want a tougher, more “set-and-forget” module build in a rooftop-friendly format, without stepping up into the oversized commercial panels. The dual-glass construction improves long-term durability and resistance to harsh conditions (salt air, higher winds, higher rooftop temperatures). Dimensions: 1762×1134×30 mm

3. Jinko Tiger Neo 60HL4-V (~490–510 W): This can be a very effective 2026 option when roof space is constrained, and you want more kW in fewer modules. The trade-off is that larger, higher-current modules demand careful inverter selection and string design so you don’t create avoidable clipping or compatibility limits. A good installer will validate this quickly at the design stage. Note: The increased power class (Watts) is due to larger dimensions, not an efficiency gain for less rooftop space. Dimensions: 1906x1134x30mm

Largest: Tiger Neo (~710–735 W): At the time of compilation, the Tiger Neo was Jinko’s largest power-class solar panel. It is not suitable for most residential rooftops and inverters, as it is classified as a utility-scale solar panel. Max. efficiency: 23.66%. Dimensions: 2384×1303×33 mm

For most residential installations in Perth built around the Tiger Neo (N-type TOPCon), the current limited warranty terms for AU/NZ are generally presented as follows. These terms are designed to provide homeowners with reassurance about the performance and durability of their solar systems over time.

• Product warranty: 25 years (many rooftop-oriented Tiger Neo types)

• Performance warranty: 30 years (linear)

• Degradation: 1.0% in year one, then typically 0.40% per year thereafter (ending at 87.4% at year 30 for those module types)

• Warranty Download ›

Jinko operates globally across globally diverse manufacturing locations. The relevant point for homeowners is that Jinko’s own datasheets for common Australian variants list “Made in China” for some models and also reference multi-country manufacturing footprints for others.

Jinko has also announced further international expansion, including a planned 10 GW solar cell and module factory in Saudi Arabia, to be built via a consortium structure (subject to approvals and project financing).

In practice, quality outcomes for homeowners correlate more strongly with: (1) the exact model/datasheet, (2) correct installation design, and (3) the installer’s aftercare and warranty support process.

Solar pricing is influenced by hardware costs, labour, roof complexity, and policy settings. The federal Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) still materially reduce the upfront price, and Perth metro postcodes sit in the Clean Energy Regulator’s STC “postcode zone rating” that installers use to calculate certificate entitlement (Perth and Bunbury postcodes fall within the published ranges shown for that zone rating).

What we recommend in 2026: treat “price per kW” as a rough comparison tool only. A better approach is to shortlist a panel + inverter combination that fits your roof and export/usage goals, then compare quotes on inclusions (warranties, monitoring, workmanship, aftercare) rather than chasing the cheapest headline price.

Quick links: Common alternative system sizes (with prices): 3 kW, 6.6 kW, 10 kW, 13 kW or 19 kW.

It’s one thing to know which Jinko solar panels to consider, this is only ever half the equation. Some know precisely their inverter or battery preferences. But for those seeking further inspiration, try these popular product pairings to ensure a future-ready energy system.

Economical: Fox ESS. A strong value/performance option with solid software and local support. $$

Shop: Customise your FoxESS

Cutting-edge: Sigenergy. A modern ecosystem featuring modular storage options and the innovative mySigen software, with the customisable SigenStor as your home energy hub. $$$

Guide: SigenStor is a reimagined home “energy hub”

Shop: Customise your Sigenstor

Full-featured: Tesla. A proven, premium ecosystem option for buyers prioritising long-term platform confidence and serviceability. $$$

Guide: Tesla Powerwall 3 breaks new ground with redesign

Shop: Customise your Powerwall 3

For homeowners in Australia, selecting a solar panel that fits a residential roof is crucial. It’s essential to consider sensible dimensions, strong N-type TOPCon performance in high temperatures, and a reliable long-term warranty. Don’t let the headline wattage guide your decision exclusively. Often, a higher-watt panel is larger, which can lead to avoidable trade-offs in roof layout, handling, future expansion, and inverter compatibility.

1. Tiger Neo 48HL4M-DB (All Black, Dual Glass, 475 W)—This is the best choice for most Perth homes. It offers a clean, durable design with a modern N-type TOPCon module in a rooftop-friendly format, delivering high efficiency. The all-black finish provides a seamless roof look without compromising essential factors such as fit, performance, and long-term reliability.

2. Tiger Neo 48HL4M-DV (Dual Glass, 475 W)—This option is ideal for homeowners who prioritise durability and prefer a reduced aesthetic impact, with a marginal cost saving of approximately 1 cent per watt compared to option 1. Choose this panel if you want a robust, “set-and-forget” design while retaining the exact residential-friendly dimensions as option 1. The dual-glass construction is resilient, offering better tolerance for harsh conditions such as coastal air, wind exposure, and sustained rooftop heat. The trade-off typically involves slightly more weight than single-glass modules, so proper workmanship and safe handling are essential.

3. Tiger Neo 60HL4-V (510 W)—This panel is less suitable for most Perth homes due to its larger dimensions (approximately 2 meters). It may be a viable option when roof space is limited due to mounting points, allowing for larger perlin gaps. However, it’s important to note that the higher wattage is mainly attributed to the larger panel size rather than a technological advancement that produces more power from less roof area. Being a larger, higher-current module, it requires careful inverter selection and string design, and its physical size may complicate future servicing or expansion. For most standard Perth rooftops, the 48HL4M with the DB or DV options mentioned above is typically the more balanced choice.

If you’re located in the greater Perth region of Western Australia, PSW sales support is happy to assist with turnkey Jinko solar package purchasing queries. Perth Solar Warehouse (2013) has a locally proven history as a pioneering Jinko-certified installer in Western Australia.

Jinko Solar Solar Panels

Nicole Bilman Appointed CEO of Perth Solar Warehouse

Perth Solar Warehouse (including PSW Energy) is proud to announce the appointment of Nicole Bilman as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective 2 February 2026.

Nicole’s appointment is both a significant milestone for our business and a meaningful signal for the wider sector. As a woman in solar stepping into the CEO role, Nicole represents the standards-led, performance-driven leadership that customers increasingly expect from a long-term energy partner in Western Australia.

Over the past five+ years, Nicole has progressed through the business from Administration Manager to General Manager, and now to CEO—earning each step through delivery, accountability, and the ability to build capability across people, process, and systems.

This upgrade will deliver real improvements to how you interact with us and ensure we remain aligned with modern expectations:

Growing PSW from a 10-person team to a 50+ person operation, expanding delivery capacity and strengthening service coverage.
Leading PSW through ISO certification with Bureau Veritas: ISO 9001 (Quality), ISO 45001 (WHS), and ISO 14001 (Environment), embedding audited systems and consistent standards.
Strengthening the customer experience end-to-end—tightening sales-to-install-to-aftercare processes to improve reliability, transparency, and long-term support.

For customers and partners, the immediate focus is continuity. Nicole will continue overseeing day-to-day operations while building out her executive team over the next six months. This approach ensures stability in delivery and service, while strengthening leadership capacity as the business grows.

That growth includes a major cross-city expansion, with a new Perth Solar Warehouse location scheduled to open in Neerabup in late March 2026. The Neerabup site will enhance service coverage across Perth’s northern corridor, support faster logistics and scheduling, and increase capacity as more households and businesses transition to solar, battery storage, and electrification.

“Nicole has earned this appointment through consistency, high standards, and an ability to build capability across the whole organisation,” said Derek McKercher, Director. “She leads with calm discipline, backs our people, and has helped shape a culture where customers feel supported long after the install. This move is the natural next step for Perth Solar Warehouse.”

Nicole brings more than a decade of experience in the electrical and renewable energy industries. Her leadership is practical and outcomes-driven, focused on empowering teams, improving operational efficiency, and delivering a customer experience that remains structured, transparent, and dependable.

As Western Australia’s clean energy transition accelerates, Perth Solar Warehouse remains committed to being a long-term, community-inspired provider, helping customers adopt sustainable energy with confidence. Nicole’s appointment reinforces that commitment and marks the next stage of building a stronger, more capable business for the years ahead.

Nicole Bilman Perth Solar Warehouse

Important update: System upgrade this Australia Day weekend

We’re investing in an improved customer service experience for you. From Friday, 23 January, through Monday, 26 January, Perth Solar Warehouse will be migrating to a new Customer Management System. Our team will complete training on the new platform through Friday, 30 January.

During this period, you may experience some delays when contacting us or accessing your account information. Our team will be working hard to assist you, but response times may be longer than usual while we settle into the new system.

We’ve deliberately scheduled this migration over the Australia Day long weekend to minimise disruption, but we want to be upfront: there may be some bumps along the way.

This upgrade will deliver real improvements to how you interact with us and ensure we remain aligned with modern expectations:

Faster quotes: Get pricing for your solar installation more quickly, with fewer back-and-forth delays.
Real-time order tracking: Follow your order from confirmation through to installation, updated as it happens.
Better support ticketing: When you need help, your requests will be tracked more efficiently so nothing falls through the cracks.
Enhanced self-service portal: Coming soon after we complete the backend migration, you'll have more control over your account and service requests.

If your enquiry isn’t urgent, we’d suggest waiting until after 30 January for the smoothest experience. For urgent matters, we’re still here—please bear with us if things take a little longer than usual.

We know any disruption is frustrating, and we appreciate your understanding as we make these improvements. This investment in our systems reflects our commitment to serving you better for years to come.

If you have questions about this upgrade, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

The Perth Solar Warehouse Team

Perth Solar Warehouse

Solar market changes in 2026: Cost increases, delays, and how to prepare

If you’ve been considering solar for your home or business, it’s important to understand how current market conditions may affect your plans. Rising solar panel prices and a shortage of skilled installers are creating both cost and timing pressures for Australian homeowners. By knowing what’s happening and planning ahead, you can make smarter decisions and potentially secure better pricing and installation schedules.

Solar panel costs are rising: China’s removal of VAT export rebates from April 2026 and record-high silver prices are expected to increase solar panel prices in Australia.
Skilled installation labour is limited: A shortage of qualified solar installers is extending installation timelines and may increase labour costs for homeowners and businesses.
Early action is essential: Planning and booking solar installations now can help secure current pricing, avoid delays, and ensure a smooth installation process.

Solar panel prices are set to increase throughout 2026. China, the world’s largest supplier of photovoltaic (PV) modules, will remove value-added tax (VAT) export rebates on solar products from April 1, 2026, which will raise manufacturing and export costs. At the same time, the price of silver—a key material in solar panels—has reached a record $83.62 per ounce, up 181% from last year. These factors are expected to increase the cost of solar panels in Australia, making early planning more important than ever [PV Magazine, Jan 2026][PV Magazine, Dec 2025][McKercher Corp, Jan 2026].

Australia is also experiencing a shortage of qualified solar installers. Rapid growth in renewable energy demand has outpaced the supply of trained electricians and technicians, leading to longer installation timelines and higher labour costs. Homeowners and businesses may face delays of several weeks or even months if they wait to book their solar installation. [PSW Energy, Jan 2026]

The combination of higher panel prices and limited installer availability compounds the impact on consumers: systems cost more upfront and may take longer to be installed. To avoid these challenges, homeowners and businesses should:

Request a quote early to secure current pricing.
Reserve an installation date to avoid extended delays (ensure a date, not an estimated timeframe).
Consider flexible financing options to manage costs.
Discuss panel and system options with an experienced local provider to find solutions suited to your home or business.

Use this as primary indicator to take action sooner rather than latter in 2026. While the market pressures may seem daunting, taking proactive steps can help you lock in pricing, secure timely installations, and start saving on energy sooner. Perth Solar Warehouse works with trusted suppliers and a skilled installation team to help customers navigate these challenges efficiently.

Rising solar panel costs and labour shortages are real factors affecting the Australian solar market, but informed planning and early action can help homeowners and businesses still achieve their renewable energy goals. The key is to act now, work with experienced professionals, and secure your solar installation before prices climb and availability tightens at current subsidised rates.

Solar Panels Supply Chain

Trina solar panels for Perth homes

Three Vertex S Trina Solar Panels Standing Aligned on a graphically enhanced blank background

Trina Solar has been manufacturing panels since 1997 and has shipped over 170GW globally. That scale matters for one reason: a 25-year warranty means nothing if the company isn’t around to honour it. Trina will be.

We stock Trina Vertex S+ panels complementary to our primary residential range. They’re not the panel we lead with, but they’re the ones we reach for when you have a specific product requirement of endorsable quality.

This guide covers the residential Vertex S+ models relevant to Perth homes in 2026.

N-type i-TOPCon cells, dual-glass construction, 21kg: Same dimensions across all three residential models
Three Vertex S+ options: standard (up to 460W), all-black (up to 455W), and the incoming 475W ultra
30-year performance warranty on every model; product warranty varies from 15 to 25 years depending on model code
Temperature coefficient of -0.29%/°C: Handles Perth heat better than older P-type panels above 25°C
AAA bankability rating, vertically integrated, Australian warranty claims via Sydney office with a mainstream economic appeal

They’ll still be here in 2050: Trina holds a AAA bankability rating from PV ModuleTech and has maintained top-tier scores in Bloomberg’s annual survey for seven consecutive years. Most budget brands can’t make that claim.

They build everything themselves: Silicon ingots, wafers, cells, finished modules. Vertical integration means quality control at every stage, not just final assembly.

They answer the phone in Australia: Sydney office, online warranty claims portal, and a track record of resolving past batch issues in full when panels were installed to spec. SolarQuotes installers voted them best budget panel three years running.

Every Vertex S+ uses N-type i-TOPCon monocrystalline cells. The key advantage over older P-type cells: N-type panels are largely immune to light-induced degradation. They don’t lose 2–3% of rated output in their first hours of sun. The panel you install is closer to the panel you keep.

Trina’s i-TOPCon architecture pushes cell efficiency past 25.9% in production, and the temperature coefficient sits at -0.29%/°C. On a hot Perth afternoon where cell temperatures hit 60°C, that means roughly 11.6% output reduction. Better than the -0.34% to -0.37%/°C you’ll see on P-type panels, and competitive with more expensive brands.

Every model uses dual-glass construction (1.6mm front and back, no backsheet), which improves moisture resistance and durability without the weight penalty of older dual-glass designs. All three models weigh 21kg.

Same dimensions. Same mounting. Different power output and warranty tier.

Specification	NEG9R.28 (standard)	NEG9R.25 (all-black)	NEG9RH.28 (ultra)
Power range	430–460W	430–455W	440–475W
Cell technology	N-type i-TOPCon	N-type i-TOPCon	N-type i-TOPCon Ultra
Module efficiency	Up to 23.0%	Up to 22.8%	Up to 23.8%
Cells	144 half-cells	144 half-cells	96 cells
Dimensions	1762 x 1134 x 30mm	1762 x 1134 x 30mm	1762 x 1134 x 30mm
Weight	21.0kg	21.0kg	21.0kg
Temp coefficient	-0.29%/°C	-0.29%/°C	-0.29%/°C
Glass	Dual (1.6mm f/b)	Dual (1.6mm f/b)	Dual (1.6mm f/b)
Product warranty	15 years*	15 years*	15 years*
Performance warranty	30 years (87.4%)	30 years (87.4%)	30 years (87.4%)
Best for	Budget-conscious installs	Street-facing aesthetics	Maximum watts per m²

*Product warranty varies by model code. Some NEG9R.28/25 variants carry 25 years. Always confirm on the datasheet for the exact panel quoted to you.

NEG9R.28: the workhorse

Trina’s highest-volume residential panel in Australia. At 440W, you need 15 panels for a 6.6kW system, roughly 30m² of roof. Mid-tier wholesale pricing with current N-type performance. Mechanical load ratings of 5,400 Pa front / 4,000 Pa rear handle Perth wind loading without issue. Salt mist and ammonia corrosion certified.

Datasheet ›

NEG9R.25: all-black aesthetic

Same panel, full-black finish. Black cells, encapsulant, and frame with no visible busbars from the street. Peak output tops at 455W versus 460W on the standard. You won’t notice the difference in system output. Choose this if your best solar roof is street-facing and appearance matters to you or your council.

Datasheet ›

NEG9RH.28: 475W ultra (incoming)

Launched at All Energy Australia in October 2025 with CEC approval that same month. 475W from an identical footprint using upgraded i-TOPCon Ultra cells. Module efficiency hits 23.8%, among the highest for any residential panel in Australia. One fewer panel for a 6.6kW system (14 vs 15). Carries 25-year product warranty as standard. Wholesale availability is still ramping. Ask about stock when you request a quote.

Datasheet ›

Two separate warranties, two different jobs.

Product warranty covers manufacturing defects: delamination, junction box failures, frame issues. Ranges from 15 to 25 years depending on the exact model code. The NEG9RH.28 ultra gets 25 years standard. Some NEG9R.28/25 codes also get 25 years, others sit at 15. Check the datasheet for your specific panel. This is the single most important thing to verify in any Trina quote.

Performance warranty guarantees minimum output over time. All Vertex S+ models: 30 years, with 1% first-year degradation and 0.4% annually thereafter. After 25 years, guaranteed 89% of rated output. That 0.4% rate is better than typical P-type panels (0.55%/year), though not quite as aggressive as premium brands like REC.

Trina processes Australian warranty claims through their Sydney office. We handle warranty support for systems we install, but the manufacturer’s direct Australian presence adds a second layer.

Trina makes 510W+ commercial panels. Some installers quote them for homes because the power class appears superior. We don’t. Perth rooftops have hips, valleys, whirlybirds, and satellite dishes. A 1762mm residential panel fits where a commercial panel, up to 2278mm, won’t. Weighs less per mounting point on timber-framed roofs, and generates a lower current that pairs cleanly with residential hybrid inverters under AS/NZS 4777.2.1

STCs: Your installation generates Small-scale Technology Certificates (tradeable certificates, not a government rebate). A 6.6kW system in Zone 3 generates approximately 74 STCs in 2026, applied as a point-of-sale discount.

CSIP-AUS (May 2026): New inverter rules affect the inverter, not the panel, but change the system design context. The new 30kVA aggregate limit replaces old 5kW export caps. All Vertex S+ panels are compatible with every CSIP-AUS compliant inverter on the market.

DEBS and self-consumption: Synergy’s variable export rates pay least during midday solar peaks. The real value of your Trina panels depends on how much you use directly versus export. A battery shifts generation into high-value windows.

Trina Vertex S+ panels deliver current N-type cell technology, dual-glass construction, and genuine manufacturer stability at a competative price point for the technology. They’re not the panel we lead with, and they’re not the highest efficiency on the market. But when budget counts or supply shifts, they’re a product we’re comfortable putting on any Perth roof.

The panel is one part of the system. Inverter selection, system design, and installation quality determine whether it performs to its datasheet over 25 years.

Get a quote for Trina solar panels →

Solar Panels Trina

Guide: Solar rebate Perth & Bunbury region simplified (zone 3)

Sunrise over Perth City for Solar Rebate Perth WA

If you’re new to solar, start with the money. In Perth, a modern rooftop solar system generates approximately 4.5 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per day for every 1 kilowatt (kW) of panels installed. Based on today’s Synergy Home Plan (A1) usage rate of about 32.37 cents per kWh, along with a daily supply charge that applies regardless, you have the potential to save between $950 and $1,700 or more per year on your power costs. However, the amount depends on how much solar energy you use at home, rather than exporting it.

The “rebate” is what makes the payback faster. It typically appears as an upfront discount on your solar PV installation invoice—more like an instant discount than a mail-in rebate.

What “Zone 3” means
Zone 3 isn’t a weather zone or a council boundary. It’s a solar “postcode zone” used to calculate the federal solar discount (Small-scale Technology Certificates, or STCs). Most Perth and Bunbury postcodes fall into Zone 3, which uses a zone rating of around 1.382 in the STC calculation.

Think of the zone rating as a location “multiplier” that reflects how much sun your area typically gets. More sun = slightly more certificates = a bigger upfront discount.

Rebate vs incentive (why you should care)
Rebate (what people mean here): the upfront discount you get when STCs are applied to your quote. Incentive (broader term): any program that improves the economics of solar. STCs are one incentive; Synergy’s buyback for exported solar is another (DEBS). Takeaway: your financial result comes from (1) the STC discount at purchase and (2) bill savings every month after installation.

The solar rebate in one sentence
In 2026, the STC discount is still available for eligible rooftop solar, but the “deeming period” (the built-in years of credit used to calculate certificate numbers) steps down over time—2026 uses 5 years.

That’s why two neighbours installing the same size system in different years can see different STC totals on their quotes.

STCs (Small-scale Technology Certificates) are digital certificates created when you install eligible solar. You can create and sell STCs yourself, but most households don’t. The usual approach is to assign (hand over) the right to create/sell them to a registered agent (often your solar retailer/installer), and they give you an upfront discount in return.

Two details matter on a quote:

How many STCs will your system create (this depends on size, postcode zone, and year)?
What dollar value is being used per STC (this is the “STC price” your installer is using to convert certificates into a discount). At the time of compilation, PSW uses $38.

There is a formal fixed-price option of $40 for STCs through the STC Clearing House (excluding GST). Market prices often hover around this level, so reputable quotes typically use a conservative “locked” STC value to minimise surprises. You can refer to the table above for a quick guide on common PSW solar system size rebate values using a 475W residential solar panel, calculated by multiplying system sizes by the locked STC value of $38.

Array size ^{x 475W panels}	STCs ²⁰²⁶	Rebate ²⁰²⁶
3.8 kW	26	$998
6.6 kW	46	$1,746
10.4 kW	75	$2,744
13.3 kW	92	$3,492
19.9 kW	138	$5,199
26.6 kW	184	$6,985
39.9 kW	276	$10,477
99.7 kW	689	$26,192

For those who are particularly curious, there is a formula for calculating the solar rebate:

Multiply the combined watts of your solar array (under standard test conditions) by 1.382. Then multiply that result by the current Small Technology Certificate (STC) multiplier, which is set for 5 years as of the 2026 calendar year. Finally, divide the result by 1000. The final figure represents the maximum number of Small Technology Certificates that your solar energy system may be eligible for.

1.1 Example calculation: 6.6 kW solar array rebate

Solar Array Combined Watts (6650) x 1.382 x 5 (years) / 1000. The resulting number is the maximum number of eligible STCs.

(6650 x 1.382) x 5 / 1000 = 46.

The number of Small Technology Certificates (STCs) for a 6.6 kW system installation in 2026 is 46. Multiply this amount by the locked conservative value of $38.

Rebate: 46 STCs x $38 = $1,746

1.2 Example: Rebate translated as a point of sale x PSW

~6.65 kW system in Zone 3, STCs shown and deducted:

STC certificates: 46
STC value used: $38
STC total rebate/discount: $1,748
Total including GST: $6,738
Total out-of-pocket after STCs: $4,990

Interpretation: you’re not waiting for money back later—the discount is already baked into what you pay. To eliminate the guesswork, prices on the PSW websites are listed as Total out-of-pocket after STCs.

Step 1: Get a recent electricity bill. You want your usage (kWh) and tariff type so the savings estimate isn’t guesswork.

Step 2: Confirm you’re in “Zone 3” for STCs (most Perth/Bunbury postcodes are). Your installer should do this automatically, but you can verify the information via the official postcode zone tables if you want certainty.

Step 3: Request that the STC discount be itemised. A clean quote displays: the number of STCs, the value per STC, and the total STC discount.

Step 4: Sign the STC assignment (if you’re taking the upfront discount). This is the normal “we’ll handle the certificates” pathway.

Step 5: Installation happens; keep your paperwork. If you ever need to prove eligibility, documents matter more than screenshots and sales summaries.

Step 6: Make sure your export payments are set up (If applicable—5 kW inverter limited). Synergy’s DEBS buyback rates (effective from 1 July 2025) pay 10c/kWh for net exports between 3 pm and 9 pm, and 2c/kWh at all other times.

Definitions first:
kW (kilowatt) = the size of your solar system (how much power it can make at peak.
kWh (kilowatt-hour) = what you’re billed for (how much energy you used over time.

A 6.6 kW system in Perth, WA, produces ~6.6 × 4.5 kWh/day, or 30 kWh per day on average over the course of a year, totalling around 10,900 kWh/year.

What those kWh are worth depends on where they go:
• Used in your home: avoids paying ~32.37c/kWh (Synergy A1 usage charge).
• Exported to the grid: earns DEBS buyback, typically 2c/kWh most of the day and 10c/kWh 3pm–9pm.

2.1 Example: A simple, conservative savings range (no battery)

2.2 Example: “$4,990 out-of-pocket after STCs” from the 1.2 Example

Break-even: about 3.2–5.2 years (depending on self-use)
Net gain after 5 years: roughly -$190 to $2,910
Net gain after 10 years: roughly $4,610 to $10,810
Net gain after 20 years: roughly $14,210 to $26,610

Estimates: using Synergy’s 2025/26 import price and DEBS rates; your actual result depends heavily on when your appliances operate as part of your energy profile. The solar rebate accelerates the payback of a solar array investment, and the real financial benefit accumulates in years 3 to 5, depending on product selection.

Is this too complicated?

It doesn’t have to be. There are two directions customers will take to claim the solar rebate

A) Path of least resistance. If the quote is transparent and the STCs are applied as an upfront discount, you generally sign an STC assignment, and the agent handles the creation/sale pathway.

B) Highly complicated. Choosing to trade STCs through the clearing house will overcomplicate the situation, as regulations require comprehensive verification of STC generation. Solar companies use specialised software to reduce the barriers associated with this process

Will I actually save money?

Yes—if you use a meaningful share of your solar during the day. Export payments are relatively small (2c most of the time), so solar rewards households that shift dishwasher/hot-water/, pool pump/laundry/airconditioning into daylight hours.

Consider adding a battery to offset the remaining unavoidable evening consumption. State and federal battery rebates now make storage adoption more affordable than ever.

What if I make a mistake applying?

PSW and most solar companies don’t facilitate customers applying for or claiming their own STCs via the clearinghouse due to the high likelihood of extended complications.

Therefore, most mistakes happen at signing, not “applying.” The key is understanding what you’re agreeing to: (1) the STC estimate, (2) the STC value used, and (3) any clause allowing the price to rise if STCs can’t be created/transferred or are reduced due to your circumstances.

How to lock-in value without panic buying?

Don’t buy solar just because someone says “rebates are ending/reducing.” The financially smart approach is simpler:

Demand itemisation: STC count + $/STC + total discount.
Read the STC/price-adjustment clause.
Treat the system as a 20-year asset: pick equipment and an installer you’ll still trust when you need warranty support.

Remember: the rebate is a fast start, but your bill savings are the long game.

To begin a solar panel installation, review your recent electricity bill to calculate your daily average usage in kilowatt-hours (kWh/day). This metric will help clarify your energy needs. Decide on a primary goal for your solar system—whether it’s reducing your bills (typically around 6 to 10 kilowatts or more) or maximising your roof’s solar coverage.

Next, obtain at least 2 quotes from solar providers, and compare the total price, the Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) line item, and any clauses regarding price changes. In preparation for installation, consider adjusting your energy habits by moving at least one major load, such as hot water, laundry, or dishwashing, to daytime. This change can increase your solar energy consumption and reduce your payback period.

Rebate

3 point assurance guide for the best solar companies in Perth

Derek McKercher being interviewed by Markus Lambert from Your Energy Answers (Dec 2025) regarding how PSW ranks as one of the best solar companies in Perth for 2026

As time passes, it becomes increasingly clear which solar companies in Perth stand out as the best. The industry has matured, making business listings valuable research tools and a valuable key indicator of past customer satisfaction for established companies. In contrast, newer companies may have outstanding review profiles due to a short history of installations, limited market exposure, and reduced aftercare commitments.

In 2026, consider evaluating the top solar companies in Perth using a measurable three-way gauge discerning service and product assurance over time:

Certification x Satisfaction x Business History = Assurance

PSW quick comparison

BV Certified ISO: 9001 (Quality), 14001 (Environment), 45001 (Safety)
NETCC: Certified. SAA installers
Google: 4.9/5 +900 reviews
SolarQuotes.com.au: 4.9/5, +700 reviews - Legendary-rated
Sunwiz: #1 Local Solar Hero, Perth, South West
SolarNerds: Top 5 solar | Top 2 battery WA: 2025
EuPD Research: Top Brand PV Installer
Tesla: Premium Certified Installer
Established: 2013

Local guide: Perth Solar Warehouse ranks as one of the best solar companies in Perth (Top 3), Western Australia, according to SolarQuotes.com.au (Reference: Western Australia’s Best-Rated Solar Installers 2024,25)

Industry observations indicate that most customers prioritise how leading solar companies in Perth adapt to and support their clients over time, rather than simply focusing on sales volume. To refine this assessment, it’s helpful to prioritise local solar companies that show a strong commitment to aftercare.

Organisations with a proven track record that aligns with NETCC endorsement and international business standards, such as ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), and ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety), are more likely to provide high-quality solutions over an extended period.

Identifying the best solar companies in Perth can be a subjective process. If the criteria focus solely on installation volume, it may not accurately reflect how a company treats its customers in terms of aftercare and support over 8 or 12 years. Many companies achieve high installation figures by simultaneously completing multiple large jobs in a short period, which may not necessarily represent customer satisfaction or long-term service quality.

1.

1.1) Business certification to an internationally recognised standard. A leading company has the opportunity to establish effective business management within an audited framework. While the process may be comprehensive, it’s essential to understand that with sustainable energy now being a mature industry, ISO certification helps distinguish quality-oriented solar companies from mere marketing claims. Look for: ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), and ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety Management).

1.2) NETCC certification to an ACCC-endorsed benchmark assisting customer protection standards. The New Energy Technology Code of Conduct is an annually reviewed guideline that most of the best solar companies in Australia adopt to aid product conformity and transparency in a purchase. Look for: The blue circle, New Energy Technology Approved Seller Logo.

2.

2.1) Diverse satisfaction. The internet offers a wide range of review platforms, and many solar companies channel energy into one or two targeted third-party sites. In contrast, lesser-known review platforms provide alternative perspectives. Observing a basic search, balance, or variation offers a more comprehensive understanding of the best solar companies in Perth, away from the noise. Look for: Inconsistencies comparing various platforms.

2.2) Volume of satisfaction [alone] should be a lesser guide in 2026. A significant margin will disproportionately represent marketers versus business owners/operators. Diverse platform satisfaction now reigns supreme, enabling a more accurate cross-platform comparison of a solar company’s reviews. Consider: Greater than +200 combined reviews over various mixed volume platforms.

3.

3) Time in business is a superior measurement in solar company refinement. Most manufacturer warranties are 10 years or longer in duration. Ensuring a local point of contact with defined aftercare is essential in a mature industry. Today, investing in energy products is only as good as the business that installs them. Enhance your return on investment with a proven power supply partner, recognised for its longevity and dependable business practices. Further refine selection, honing in on a company whose guarantee complements its operational history. Highly value: 10+ years

4.

Extra assurance:

4.1) Local roots. WA’s homegrown organisations are hands down the best solar companies in Perth. Local business gets you! It understands related ongoing needs and can better assist at times of support. A solar company’s operating hours aligned with Western Australia’s timezone improves operational assurance. Look for: a homegrown journey on the ‘About’ page of the company website.

4.2) In-house serviceability options provide customers with the level of time-based standardisation and system execution assurance they desire. A close-knit solar installation/service company with high-quality subcontract and in-house installation delivery will likely receive regular product care training due to an over-riding Electrical Contractor licence. Strongly consider: Solar companies with a West Australian Electrical Contractors (EC) licence number.

4.4) Physical commercial presence is one of the strongest indicators of a solar company’s commitment to the local region. Strongly reconsider: Solar companies with city office listings.

4.5) Cybersecurity and data privacy considerations are a vital indicator of an organisation’s commitment to value-defining aftercare beyond general support. It is imperative to evaluate the security measures in place to prevent unauthorised access to your home’s data by temporary staff. Highly value: Cybersecurity and Personal Data Management Policies in 2026.

Physical commercial presence remains one of the strongest indicators of a solar company’s commitment to the local region.

Specifically, three well-known review platforms for solar companies in Perth are Google, SolarQuotes, and SolarChoice. While other options, such as ProductReview and TrustPilot, exist, it’s essential to recognise that these international platforms primarily serve organisational marketing purposes, offering enhanced listing benefits for a fee. Below are reputable platforms that, in our opinion, do not engage in review gating or where customers can gauge genuine business insight.

Google is accessible to everyone. It’s an excellent tool for companies to stay vigilant about all interactions, even those from non-purchasing customers. Reassess: low review counts compared to company size/short earliest review timelines.

SolarQuotes.com.au is a controversial platform because it offers paid features for approved installers. Consequently, solar companies that receive leads from SolarQuotes often have a higher number of reviews than those that do not. One advantage of the reviews on SolarQuotes is that they follow up with verified customers, ensuring the authenticity of the feedback. These reviews are useful for customers trying to evaluate various aspects of an installer’s qualities. Most of the top solar companies in Perth are measured on this site, including those that are not subscribers.

SolarChoice.com.au is comparable to the SolarQuotes platform in terms of credible installer referrals (you’ll likely find a good one here). The installer review section is more recent, meaning the reviews for many of Perth’s currently recognised top-rated solar companies are lower in volume than on alternative platforms, which may lead to a more likely deviation. SolarChoice.com.au offers customers credible and free information throughout the research and support phases of their sustainable energy journey.

Forget Facebook reviews. Facebook’s most discerning feature is the business timeline! Are they a local community hero or a marketing outlet with limited long-term substance? Facebook provides a community-focused pulse of every business in 2026. Avoid: Marketing walls with no personal identity. Look for: Real humans (the people behind the brand).

Social presence and depth distinguish solar companies. Select a company with which you feel comfortable returning for operational queries and aftercare.

While there appears to be a multitude of solar companies competing for your project, only a select few will disclose their establishment. Establishment adds value to every warranty.

Its proven product warranties are only as good as the installation company behind it. Consider a 1-year company with a 10-year guarantee (1/10) vs a 10-year company with a 10-year guarantee (10/10).

Experiences hold significant value when measured over time. A series of positive experiences in a short period can lessen the importance of customer reviews for those who prioritise aftercare and ongoing satisfaction. Further enforcing this perspective are AI business overviews. In 2026, the focus has shifted from the quantity of reviews to their depth and diversity.

Strongly consider: Refining your shortlist of leading solar companies in Perth through individual research. Focus on platforms with low review counts (third-party websites with fewer than 50 reviews). Low-review platforms provide an enhanced cross-section for comparing the top solar companies in Perth. Heck, it’s the AI era. Prompt your ideal refinement criteria into your preferred AI search, including any specific requirements you have for a home energy system (enable extended thinking).

PSW experience comparison x 13 years.

Google: 4.9/5 greater than 900 reviews
SolarQuotes.com.au: 4.9/5 greater than 700 reviews
SolarChoice.com.au: 4.8/5 greater than 40 reviews
Facebook: 5/5 greater than 80 recommendations
Oneflare: 4.9/5 greater than 900 accumulated reviews

Google: 4.9/5 +900 reviews
SolarQuotes.com.au: 4.9/5 +700 reviews
SolarChoice.com.au: 4.8/5 +40 reviews
Facebook: 5/5 +25 reviews
Facebook: 5/5 +25 reviews
Oneflare: 4.9/5 +900 accumulated reviews

Local guide: Perth Solar Warehouse ranks among the top solar companies in Perth, based on customer sentiment averages across Google and SolarQuotes.com.au since 2013.

Manufacturers count on reliable local solar companies to implement their products on-site, regardless of an individual’s credentials. SAA-accredited installers may not always remain affiliated with a single business for the entire duration of your warranty or support needs.

As a result, manufacturers endorse trusted partners to assist with their products. The best solar companies typically specialise in the product suite they work with, ensuring they are well-versed in specific installation practices. Manufacturer-certified installation businesses are often committed to product-specific, continuous professional development.

PSW brand allignment comparison

Tesla Premium Certified Installer 2022,23,24,25
Sigenergy Approved Silver Installer 2025
Fronius Service Partner 2020,21,22,23,24,25
iStore Approved Partner
Goodwe Approved Partner
Alpha ESS Approved Installer
REC Certified Protrust Solar Professional
Risen Energy Gold Partner
Jinko Approved Installer
Aiko Approved Installer

Local guide: Improving aftercare. Perth Solar Warehouse ranks among the top solar companies in Perth, backed by leading brand endorsements.

There are many recognition systems in 2026 (awards/badges that many companies showcase). While peer review recognition is beneficial, it should rarely be a determining factor in a company’s shortlist for product consideration. You’re searching for the right fit, and not everyone’s a cowboy. Sustainable energy adoption is a worthy choice with a credible installer.

Award mechanisms can add weight when splitting hairs and are typically composed of aspects that fall short of the above criteria combined. A limited lens, these systems are fundamentally based on participation, excluding many reputable solar installation companies in Perth.

Nevertheless, participating solar companies have earned their peer-reviewed endeavours. Look for: Sunwiz, SolarQuotes, SolarNerds, Smart Energy Council, Clean Energy Council or leading manufacturing brand recognition.

PSW by peer review comparison

SolarQuotes.com.au: Legendary-rated 2023,24,25
Sunwiz Award: Top 10 Combined [Residential & Commercial] WA 2024,25
Sunwiz Award: Best Rated Solar Installer (Australia) 2023,24,25
Sunwiz Award: #1 Local Solar Hero (Perth, South West) 2025
Solaris Award: Top 5 Solar, Top 2 Battery (WA) 2025
EUPD Research Top Brand PV Installer (Australia)
Tesla Performance Excellence Award, Q4, 2023
Sigenergy international recognition, Intersolar Germany 2025

Take them with a pinch of salt.

When considering 95% of solar companies Australia-wide, there’s now a mature industry formula for improved long-term product assurance:

Certification x Satisfaction x Business History = Assurance

Perth Solar Warehouse connects with the broader Perth, Western Australia community through a streamlined, technology-focused electrification approach that emphasises itemised purchasing and responsive aftercare. If you’d like to experience the benefits of our technology and service built on two decades of local product satisfaction, contact the PSW Sales Support team.

Best of Perth Solar Warehouse

Why PSW’s result is reassuring for homeowners

What does this mean in a decision

Quick insight

Contents

Which to consider

What you’re paying for (the premium test)

Aiko Neostar Series 3 warranty

Manufacturing origin

General price range

PSW's recommended choice

What changes on 1 May 2026

Why the rules are changing

Export is now a choice, not a one-size-fits-all rule

What “communications-capable” means

Who makes sure your system complies

What this means for your installation timeline

PSW makes this simple

Quick points

Contents

Which to consider

Jinko's Australian warranty

Manufacturing origin

What should you expect to pay?

Popular pairing options

PSW's recommended Jinko

Key achievements within 5 years

What this means

Why we're making this change

What you can do

Thank you for your patience

Quick insight

Rising solar panel costs inevitable

Skilled labour shortages

What this means for you

Take action

Quick take

Here's why Trina is worth considering

N-type i-TOPCon: The cell technology

Three Vertex S+ models for residential rooftops

Specs at a glance

NEG9R.28: the workhorse

NEG9R.25: all-black aesthetic

NEG9RH.28: 475W ultra (incoming)

Understanding the warranty

Why only residential-format panels for homes?

West Australian context

Is Trina right for your home?

Contents

How the STC “solar rebate” works

Your rebate checklist

ROI timeline

Common first-time worries

Next steps to avoid decision paralysis

Contents

Solid differentiators

Best third-party measurement tools

Customer experience x time

Manufacturer allignment

Industry recognition

What's your cost? It's free to ask

What's your cost? It's free to ask

What's your cost? It's free to ask

Your interest-free solar price in a few questions.