Does Solar Increase Property Value?

Rooftop solar panels work by converting energy from the sun into electricity, so you’re effectively able to generate your own power. Australia enjoys the highest solar radiation of any continent in the world, so there’s plenty of opportunity for us to harness the power of the sun.

Solar panels are made up of units called solar cells, AKA ‘photovoltaic cells’. The term ‘photovoltaic’ relates to the production of electricity by substances exposed to light and is a special property that some materials have.

High-purity silicon is used to make most solar cells and, when carefully manufactured, acts as a semiconductor. The semiconductor properties of silicon can then be used to make solar cells.

Light is made up of photons. When solar cells absorb certain photons from sunlight, electrons within the solar cell can become excited. These excited electrons can then move through the conductors and wires in the solar panel to create electricity that can power your home.

Australians believe homes with solar are more valuable than the equivalent houses without.

Based on our survey of 1,005 Australians aged between 18-79 from all States and Territories in 2018*, we found that 77% of Australians think a house with solar is more valuable than those relying on traditional energy sources. With 57% of homeowners saying they would pay up to $10,000 more for a home equipped with solar, and 60% would pay at least that much more for a home with both solar and a battery.

It’s not only good news for owner-occupiers, with 55% of renters saying they would be willing to pay up to $10 a week more in rent for a property with solar.

The survey also looked at the adoption of solar in Australian homes – revealing that while only 20% of people currently have solar panels installed, 57% plan to have a solar battery installed within the next five years.

If you’re a property owner, your home is probably your biggest asset and ensuring it grows in value is a significant part of your financial future. Our research shows that recognising your empty roof space as a potential asset and installing solar panels could provide a real boost when you decide to sell.