Author

Steve Hill

Renewable Energy Executive · Founder, Elite Smart Energy Solutions

Steve Hill is a renewable-energy executive with a deep background in Australian solar and energy efficiency, spanning consulting, project management and business development. He founded Elite Smart Energy Solutions, a Clean Energy Council Approved Retailer focused on smarter, lower-cost energy for homes and businesses. Steve contributes to Energy Matters, one of Australia's longest-running solar publications, and has appeared on its Road to Zero podcast. He helps Australian homeowners cut through the noise on rebates, batteries and going solar.

14 guides by Steve Hill

Feed-in Tariffs

Solar Feed-in Tariffs by Retailer 2026: State-by-State Comparison

What Australian retailers actually pay for exported solar in 2026, state by state. Plus the trap most people fall for: chasing a high feed-in tariff instead of using their own power.

Rebates & Incentives

What Changed in Australian Solar Rebates in 2026

Solar and battery rebates changed a lot in 2026. Here's every change that matters, when it happened, and what it means for what you can claim now. Kept current.

Batteries

SA Solar Owners: You Sell Power For Cents, Then Buy It Back At Peak

South Australia has the highest power prices in the country. Your panels export all day for a few cents a unit, then you buy that same power back at peak rates after dark. Here is the maths, and what the 2026 battery rebate does about it.

Rebates & Incentives

What “No Net Cost” Solar Really Means (and What It Doesn't)

“No net cost” solar doesn't mean free. Here's exactly how the rebate and finance work, what it really costs, and how to spot the dodgy “free solar” offers.

Solar

Solar Power Packages: The Good, The Bad, and The Costly

Solar packages look shiny and all-inclusive, but sometimes leave homeowners wondering what half the stuff does. Here's how to spot a good one from a marketing trap.

Rebates

Solar Rebate Explained: Your 2026 Guide to Saving On Your Solar Investment

Understand Australia's solar rebates, STCs, and battery programs. Cut through the jargon and discover how much government help you actually qualify for.

Buying Guide

20kW Solar System: Price, Output & Suitability Guide

Is a 20kW solar system right for your home? We break down real costs, daily output, roof space needs, and whether bigger is actually better.

Batteries

What Size Solar Battery Do I Need for My Home? kWh Requirements Explained

Find the perfect solar battery size for your home. Learn how to calculate your energy needs and avoid paying for storage you don't use.

Solar

Solar Savings Estimator: Calculate Your Energy Savings & Payback Time in Minutes

A solar savings estimator turns your electricity usage and system size into real dollar figures, showing potential savings without guesswork or sales spin.

Solar

Solar Power Installation Price in Australia 2026: What You'll Actually Pay

Understand what goes into solar installation costs, government rebates, and true payback periods for Australian homes in 2026.

Solar

Is Solar Electricity Worth It in 2026? A Realistic Assessment

Solar can cut electricity bills by 50 to 90% for Australian homes, but it's not magic. Here's what you need to know about costs, savings, and payback periods.

Solar

How Many Solar Panels Do I Need? Easy Calculator Guide for Australian Homes

Most Aussies love solar but struggle to explain system sizing. Learn how to calculate your exact panel needs based on usage, roof space, and location.

Batteries

What Does A Home Battery Cost? 2026 Prices By Home Size

A straight answer, by home size, after the 2026 rebate. What a battery lists for, what the government takes off at the invoice, and what you actually pay on the day.

Rebates & Incentives

Commercial Solar Rebates in 2026: What Your Business Can Claim

The federal rebate already takes thousands off business solar, and from 1 October it covers systems up to 1MW. What your business can claim, what it really costs, and how $0 upfront works.