At Zap Tech Energy, we get asked the same questions constantly: What’s the best solar panel? Should I go with a string inverter or micro-inverters? Which battery is worth the money? And what EV charger should I install?
Fair questions. The problem is, most answers you’ll find online are either manufacturer marketing or generic “top 10” lists that don’t account for Melbourne’s climate, your roof layout, or your actual energy usage.
This guide is different. We’re going to walk you through every brand we install across solar panels, inverters, batteries, and EV chargers — and explain why each one earns a spot on our approved list. We’re not a warehouse that sells everything under the sun. We’ve deliberately curated our product range based on performance, warranty terms, Australian support, and real-world results on Melbourne rooftops.
If you’d rather skip the reading and talk to someone, call 03 9404 0484 or enquire online and we’ll match you to the right products for your situation.
How We Choose the Brands We Install
Before listing individual products, it’s worth explaining what gets a brand onto our approved list. We don’t install everything that’s available on the Australian market. Our selection criteria are:
- CEC-approved product listing — mandatory for rebate eligibility in Victoria
- Warranty strength — both product warranty (covering defects) and performance warranty (guaranteeing output over time)
- Australian support infrastructure — local warranty claims, parts availability, and technical support
- Real-world performance in Melbourne conditions — proven output across Melbourne’s variable weather, including overcast winter days and hot summer peaks
- Value across the price spectrum — we carry options from entry-level to premium, so every Melbourne homeowner has a quality choice at their budget level
Every product we install is CEC-approved, which means it meets Australian standards and qualifies for both the federal STC rebate and the Solar Victoria rebate.
Solar Panels We Install
Aiko Solar
Aiko Solar is the top-rated solar panel brand in Australia according to SolarQuotes’ 2025 installer survey — and for good reason. Their N-type ABC (All Back Contact) cell technology delivers some of the highest efficiency ratings on the residential market, typically between 23% and 24%.
What that means in practice: more power from a smaller roof area, which is especially valuable for Melbourne homes with limited north-facing roof space or partial shading.
Aiko panels come with a 25-year product warranty and a 30-year performance warranty. They’re competitively priced for a premium product, which is why they’ve taken the Australian market by storm since launching here in 2024.
Best for: Homeowners who want maximum output from their roof, especially on homes with space constraints or partial shading.
REC Solar
REC is a Norwegian manufacturer with one of the strongest reputations in the global solar industry. Their flagship Alpha Pure RX panels use heterojunction (HJT) cell technology, delivering efficiency ratings around 22% to 23% with exceptional performance in low-light conditions — something Melbourne homeowners benefit from during the cooler months.
All REC panels come with a full 25-year product warranty. Their TwinPeak 5 series offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality.
Best for: Homeowners who want premium European engineering with one of the best warranties in the business.
Jinko Solar
Jinko is one of the world’s largest solar manufacturers and a consistent top-three performer in Australian installer surveys. Their Tiger Neo range uses N-type TOPCon cell technology, offering strong efficiency (typically 21–22%) at a price point that represents excellent value.
Jinko panels come with a 25-year product warranty and have a massive global installation base, which means plenty of long-term performance data.
Best for: Budget-conscious Melbourne homeowners who still want Tier-1 quality and proven performance.
LONGi Solar
LONGi is the world’s largest manufacturer of monocrystalline silicon wafers — the core material in most modern solar panels. Their Hi-MO series panels are known for reliability and consistent output, with efficiency ratings of 21% to 22%.
LONGi’s scale means competitive pricing, and their panels are CEC-approved with a 25-year product warranty.
Best for: Homeowners looking for a reliable, well-priced panel from the largest silicon manufacturer on the planet.
Trina Solar
Trina Solar has been in the Australian market for over a decade and is one of the most commonly installed brands in the country. Their Vertex S+ series uses N-type TOPCon technology, with efficiency ratings around 22%.
Trina offers solid warranty terms (25-year product warranty) and has well-established Australian support infrastructure.
Best for: A proven, dependable option that’s been performing on Melbourne roofs for years.
Canadian Solar
Canadian Solar is a global Tier-1 manufacturer offering a strong balance of performance and value. Their HiKu and HiHero series panels deliver efficiency ratings of 21% to 22%, with a 25-year product warranty.
Canadian Solar panels are particularly popular for larger residential and small commercial installations where the cost-per-watt matters.
Best for: Larger systems where maximising value without sacrificing quality is the priority.
Tindo Solar
Tindo Solar is Australia’s only solar panel manufacturer, based in Adelaide. Their Karra series panels use N-type HJT cells with efficiency around 22%, and every panel is assembled in South Australia.
Choosing Tindo means supporting Australian manufacturing while still getting a premium product. Their panels are CEC-approved and come with a 25-year product warranty.
Best for: Melbourne homeowners who value Australian-made products and want to support local manufacturing.
Not sure which panel is right for your Melbourne home? Call us on 03 9404 0484 — we’ll recommend the best option based on your roof, budget, and energy goals.
Inverters We Install
The inverter converts the direct current (DC) produced by your solar panels into alternating current (AC) that your home can use. It’s the brain of your solar system, and choosing the right one matters just as much as choosing the right panels.
Sigenergy
Sigenergy is a newer entrant to the Australian market, but it’s already generating serious attention. Their hybrid inverter and battery system is an all-in-one platform that integrates solar, battery storage, EV charging, and smart home energy management into a single ecosystem.
For Melbourne homeowners planning solar with a battery (now or later), or adding an EV charger, Sigenergy offers a streamlined solution that reduces complexity and installation costs.
Best for: Homes planning a complete energy ecosystem — solar, battery, and EV charging in one integrated platform.
Enphase
Enphase micro-inverters take a different approach: instead of one central inverter, each panel gets its own micro-inverter. This means each panel operates independently, so shading on one panel doesn’t drag down the rest of the system.
Enphase micro-inverters are known for their reliability, monitoring capabilities, and 25-year warranty. They’re ideal for Melbourne homes with complex roof layouts, multiple orientations, or partial shading from trees or neighbouring buildings.
Best for: Homes with complex roofs, shading issues, or homeowners who want panel-level monitoring.
Fronius
Fronius is an Austrian manufacturer that’s been a staple of the Australian solar market for over a decade. Their Primo and Symo series inverters are known for reliability, build quality, and excellent monitoring through the Fronius Solar.web portal.
Fronius inverters come with a 10-year warranty (extendable) and have a strong local service network in Australia.
Best for: Homeowners who want a proven, reliable string inverter from a brand with a long Australian track record.
Goodwe
Goodwe is one of the largest inverter manufacturers globally and offers an excellent range of hybrid inverters that support battery integration. Their DNS and EHB series are popular choices for Melbourne homes adding battery storage.
Goodwe’s pricing is competitive, and their 10-year warranty makes them a solid mid-range option.
Best for: Budget-friendly hybrid inverter setups, or homes planning to add a battery later.
Sungrow
Sungrow is one of the most installed inverter brands worldwide. Their residential range covers everything from basic string inverters to advanced hybrid models with battery compatibility. Sungrow inverters are known for solid performance and competitive pricing.
Best for: A reliable, well-priced inverter option for standard residential installations.
Batteries We Install
Adding a battery to your solar system lets you store excess energy generated during the day and use it in the evening — reducing your reliance on the grid and making the most of your solar investment.
Sigenergy
Sigenergy’s battery system integrates directly with their hybrid inverter, creating a seamless solar-battery-EV charging platform. The modular design means you can start with a smaller battery and expand as your needs grow.
Best for: Homeowners investing in the Sigenergy ecosystem for an all-in-one energy solution.
Tesla Powerwall (2 and 3)
The Tesla Powerwall is probably the most recognised home battery in Australia. The Powerwall 2 offers 13.5 kWh of usable capacity, while the Powerwall 3 brings an integrated inverter and improved efficiency.
Tesla’s app provides detailed energy monitoring, and the Powerwall’s sleek design suits most Melbourne homes.
Best for: Homeowners who want a recognisable, proven battery brand with strong monitoring and app control.
Enphase Energy
Enphase IQ batteries are designed to pair seamlessly with Enphase micro-inverter systems. They’re modular — you can stack multiple units to scale your storage — and they use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry for safety and longevity.
Best for: Homes already using or planning to use Enphase micro-inverters.
Goodwe
Goodwe’s Lynx battery range offers scalable storage for homes with Goodwe hybrid inverters. The LFP chemistry provides excellent cycle life, and the pricing is competitive for Melbourne homeowners on a tighter budget.
Best for: Value-focused battery storage paired with a Goodwe hybrid inverter.
Sungrow
Sungrow offers residential battery solutions that pair with their hybrid inverter range. Their SBR series features a modular LFP design with capacities from 3.2 kWh up to 25.6 kWh.
Best for: Flexible, scalable storage for homes with varying energy needs.
BYD
BYD (Build Your Dreams) is one of the world’s largest battery manufacturers. Their Battery-Box range is modular, expandable, and compatible with a wide range of inverter brands. BYD uses LFP chemistry with a strong track record for longevity.
Best for: Homeowners who want a proven, modular battery system with inverter flexibility.
Thinking about adding a battery to your Melbourne home? We’ll help you choose the right size and brand based on your energy usage and goals. Call 03 9404 0484 or get in touch online.
EV Chargers We Install
With electric vehicle adoption growing rapidly across Melbourne, having a dedicated home charger means you can charge overnight using cheap off-peak electricity — or directly from your solar system during the day.
Goodwe
Goodwe’s EV charger integrates neatly with their inverter and battery ecosystem, allowing intelligent charging that prioritises solar energy. It’s a practical choice for homes already using Goodwe products.
Best for: Homes with a Goodwe solar and battery setup looking for seamless EV integration.
Zappi
Zappi is one of the most popular smart EV chargers in Australia. Its standout feature is the ability to charge your car exclusively from excess solar generation — so you’re not pulling from the grid unless you choose to. Zappi works with any solar system, not just a specific brand.
Best for: Melbourne homeowners who want to charge their EV for free from solar, regardless of their existing inverter brand.
EVNex
EVNex is a New Zealand-designed smart EV charger with strong Australian support. It offers solar-aware charging, load management, and RFID access control. The build quality is robust, and it’s designed for the Australian market.
Best for: Homeowners who want a quality Australasian-designed charger with smart features.
Air Cons We Install
We install split system, multi-head and ducted air conditioning across Greater Melbourne. The brands below are chosen for energy efficiency, inverter performance, warranty terms, and real-world reliability in Melbourne’s climate
Panasonic
Panasonic is one of Australia’s most trusted air conditioning brands, with a strong track record in residential and light commercial installations. Their Aero Series reverse cycle units are known for quiet operation, high energy star ratings, and robust inverter technology that maintains consistent temperatures without short-cycling. Panasonic’s nanoe-X air purification technology is a standout feature for households concerned about indoor air quality.
Best for: Homeowners who want a reliable, energy-efficient split system with a strong brand reputation and quiet operation.
Mitsubishi Electric
Mitsubishi Electric is consistently rated among the top air conditioning brands in Australia. Their MSZ and MXZ series cover everything from single split systems to multi-head setups, with some of the highest energy star ratings on the residential market. Their inverter compressors are engineered for longevity, and the Mitsubishi Electric Australian support network is one of the strongest in the country, meaning warranty claims and service are handled locally without delays.
Best for: Homeowners who prioritise long-term reliability and want a premium split or multi-head system backed by strong local support.
Daikin
Daikin is the world’s largest air conditioning manufacturer and one of the most installed residential brands in Australia. Their Cora and Alira series split systems deliver excellent efficiency and performance across a wide range of capacities. Daikin’s ducted range is particularly strong, their zoning controls are intuitive, their ducted systems are quiet, and their installation documentation is thorough, which matters for compliance and warranty. Daikin has manufacturing facilities in Australia, which support local parts availability and faster service.
Best for: Homeowners installing ducted air conditioning, or anyone who wants a globally proven brand with strong local manufacturing support.
Not sure which brand or system size suits your home? We size every system based on your floor area, ceiling height, insulation, and window orientation. Call 03 9404 0484 or enquire online and we’ll recommend the right unit for your home.
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Heat Pump Hot Water Systems We Install
A heat pump hot water system is the most energy-efficient way to heat water in a Melbourne home, using the same reverse cycle technology as an air conditioner to extract heat from the air rather than generating it directly. The brands below are selected for Australian compliance, energy efficiency, warranty terms, and suitability for Melbourne’s climate.
iStore
iStore is one of Australia’s most popular heat pump hot water brands, and for good reason. Their 270L and 320L systems are purpose-built for the Australian climate, with a strong COP (Coefficient of Performance) rating that means more hot water for every unit of electricity consumed. iStore units are STCs-eligible, qualify for Victorian government rebates, and come with a 5-year warranty on the heat pump unit. Their systems are designed for easy installation and are compatible with solar systems and time-of-use tariffs for maximum savings.
Best for: Melbourne households wanting a proven, rebate-eligible heat pump system that integrates well with solar and off-peak electricity tariffs.
Haier
Haier is a global appliance manufacturer with a growing presence in the Australian hot water market. Their heat pump hot water systems offer a competitive combination of efficiency and value, with capacities ranging from 200L to 300L to suit households of different sizes. Haier units are designed to operate effectively in ambient temperatures down to -10°C, well beyond Melbourne’s coldest winter conditions, making them a reliable year-round option.
Best for: Households looking for a value-conscious heat pump system with solid cold-weather performance.
Reclaim Energy
Reclaim Energy is an Australian-owned brand that has built a strong reputation in the heat pump hot water market. Their CO₂ heat pump systems use a natural refrigerant (R744) rather than synthetic HFCs, which delivers a higher COP at lower ambient temperatures, an advantage in Melbourne’s cooler months. Reclaim systems also operate quietly and are compatible with solar diverters, allowing excess solar generation to be directed to hot water heating. Their products are manufactured to Australian standards and carry strong warranty terms.
Best for: Homeowners who want an Australian-owned product using natural refrigerant, with strong solar integration and excellent cold-weather performance.
Switching from a gas or electric storage hot water system? We handle the full changeover, removal of the old unit, installation, electrical connection, and rebate paperwork. Call 03 9404 0484 or enquire online to get a fixed quote.
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How to Choose the Right Products for Your Melbourne Home
With all these options, how do you actually decide? Here’s our honest advice:
- Start with your roof. Shading, orientation, and available space determine which panels and inverter setup will perform best. A north-facing roof with no shading? A string inverter and any quality panel will do. A complex roof with multiple orientations? Consider micro-inverters or optimisers.
- Match your inverter to your plans. If you’re adding a battery now or within the next few years, go with a hybrid inverter from the start. Retrofitting later is more expensive.
- Size your battery to your usage. A family of four in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs with a pool and ducted heating has different needs to a couple in a Footscray townhouse. We design every system around your actual energy consumption, not generic averages.
- Budget matters — but so does quality. We carry options from entry-level (Jinko panels + Goodwe inverter) to premium (Aiko panels + Enphase micro-inverters). There’s no shame in starting with a mid-range system that you can expand later.
- Check the warranty. Product warranty (covering defects) and performance warranty (guaranteeing output over time) are both important. Every brand on our list carries at least a 10-year product warranty, with most panels offering 25 years.
Let Zap Tech Energy Match You to the Right System
We’re not a warehouse. We’re a team of licensed, CEC-accredited installers who’ve been working across Melbourne rooftops for over 10 years. We know which products perform in our climate, which ones hold up over time, and which combinations deliver the best value for Melbourne homeowners.
📞 Call us: 03 9404 0484
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best solar panels available in Australia right now?
Based on the 2025 SolarQuotes installer survey, the top-rated solar panels in Australia are Aiko Solar (first place, 27% of installer votes), REC (second place, 16%), and Jinko Solar (third place, 11%). Zap Tech Energy installs all three, along with LONGi, Trina, Canadian Solar, and Australian-made Tindo Solar. The best panel for your home depends on your roof space, budget, and energy goals.
Which solar battery should I get for my Melbourne home?
The right battery depends on your system size, energy usage patterns, and whether you want to integrate with an EV charger. Popular choices include the Tesla Powerwall for brand recognition and app control, Enphase IQ for homes using micro-inverters, and Sigenergy for an all-in-one solar-battery-EV platform. We recommend sizing your battery based on your actual evening and overnight energy consumption, not just a generic capacity number.
What is a Tier-1 solar panel?
Tier-1 is a classification originally from Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF) that indicates a solar panel manufacturer is financially stable and has a strong track record of production. All panels Zap Tech Energy installs are from Tier-1 manufacturers, which means better warranty support and a lower risk of the manufacturer disappearing before your warranty expires.
Should I choose a string inverter or micro-inverters?
String inverters (like Fronius, Goodwe, or Sungrow) are the standard choice for homes with a straightforward, unshaded north-facing roof. They’re cost-effective and reliable. Micro-inverters (like Enphase) are better for homes with shading, multiple roof orientations, or where panel-level monitoring is important. DC optimisers offer a middle ground. We’ll recommend the best option based on your specific roof and situation.
Are all the brands Zap Tech Energy installs CEC-approved?
Yes. Every solar panel, inverter, and battery we install is listed on the Clean Energy Council’s approved product register. This is a mandatory requirement for accessing the Solar Victoria rebate and federal STC incentive. We do not install unapproved products under any circumstances.
Can I start with solar panels and add a battery later?
Absolutely. If you’re working within a budget, we recommend starting with solar panels and a hybrid inverter (which is battery-ready). This way, you can add a battery in the future without needing to replace your inverter. We design systems with future expansion in mind.
Does Zap Tech Energy install Australian-made solar panels?
Yes. Tindo Solar is Australia’s only solar panel manufacturer, and their Karra series panels are assembled in Adelaide, South Australia. We offer Tindo panels for Melbourne homeowners who want to support Australian manufacturing while still getting a premium N-type HJT product.
What EV charger should I get if I have solar panels?
If you want to charge your EV directly from excess solar generation, the Zappi charger is a standout — it works with any solar system and can be set to charge only when there’s surplus solar power. If you’re using a Goodwe or Sigenergy inverter, their integrated EV chargers offer seamless communication between your solar, battery, and car charger. We’ll help you choose based on your vehicle and existing setup.