As energy prices rise and sustainable living becomes the norm, solar power continues to be one of the smartest investments for new homeowners. No longer just a nice-to-have, they’re now a helpful feature for new homes across Australia, in-line with the National Construction Code (NCC) update. Yet while compliance is one thing, making the most of this requirement is another.

This is especially true in regional areas like Warragul, Drouin, Traralgon and the surrounding towns, where temperatures swing between the extremes, pushing household energy usage to its limits. And the best way to combat this is to increase your solar panels and energy potential. But what does this really mean – and why is more solar better?

Let’s break it down.

How many Solar Panels do I need for my home?

The amount of panels required will depend on the size of your home and roof space available. We always recommend starting with at least 3.5kW but upgrading to enough panels to generate 10kW is ideal.

A 10kW solar system refers to the total amount of power the solar panels can produce under ideal conditions. Typically made up of 20 -23 panels, these systems are capable of generating approximately up to 60kW of electricity per day which is enough to comfortably support a large household’s energy needs.

But the real value of a 10kW system lies in its long-term impact being lower power bills, greater energy independence and the potential to store excess electricity to a future battery. Over time, that means significant savings and less reliance on traditional energy sources.

Not All Solar Is Equal

Under current building regulations, solar energy is now a key factor in meeting minimum energy efficiency standards. The National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 requires all new homes to meet a 7-Star NatHERS energy rating and a “Whole of Home” (WOH) energy use budget. This encourages the use of solar, efficient appliances and better insulation.

At Arkadian Homes, we believe in building for the long term. That’s why we include a minimum 3.52kW solar panel system and are currently giving our customers the chance to upgrade to a robust 10kW system at no extra cost.

The Benefits of Going Bigger

Upgrading to a 10kW system offers real advantages beyond just ticking the compliance box:

• Maximised Cost Savings:With a larger system, you can generate more electricity during peak sun hours, reducing your need to purchase power from the grid and potentially creating surplus energy to feed back.
• Energy Security: A bigger solar setup gives you more flexibility. Pair it with a battery solution, and you can store energy for use overnight or during blackouts.
• Future-Proofing: As more households transition to electric vehicles, smart appliances, and all-electric living, energy demands are increasing. A 10kW system helps ensure your home is ready for what’s next.
• Environmental Impact:More panels mean greater carbon offset. A 10kW system can significantly reduce your household’s emissions, making it a responsible choice for the planet.

A Smarter Build from the Start

Choosing a builder that offers more than just the minimum is key. With Arkadian Homes, you’re not only investing in a stylish, high-quality home you’re also getting the opportunity to significantly improve its energy efficiency and long-term value.

With our limited-time upgrade to a 10kW solar system, now is the perfect time to future-proof your home, reduce your running costs and build a brighter future.