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Solar Panels

Home > Our Environment > Energy Management > Solar Panels

Solar photovoltaic systems (solar panels) reduce electricity bills and offer the potential of off-grid energy self-sufficiency.

Solar panels cloudsRooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems convert energy from the sun into electricity you can use in your property. Any electricity you don't use gets fed into the main electricity grid.

Many households also choose to add a battery to their solar system. When you install a home solar battery system, you can store the energy you produce and use it in the evening or on cloudy days. 

A home solar or solar battery system can benefit your household by: 

  • cutting your energy bills 
  • reducing your carbon emissions 
  • increasing your self sufficiency  
  • improving the resale value of your home.

Choosing and installing solar 

SA.GOV.AU website provides information on the following topics:

  • Choosing and installing a solar PV system or battery
  • Positioning your solar PV system or battery
  • Connecting your solar PV system to the electricity grid
  • Solar PV system subsidies and feed-in payments
  • Solving problems and making a consumer complaint
  • Safety checks after installing a solar PV system or battery

For further information, visit: SA.GOV.AU - Solar photovoltaic systems and battery storage

Do I need development approval

The following information will help you determine if you require development approval. 

If you have any questions or need further assistance, contact the Council’s Urban Planning Department on 08 8366 4530.


Installation of a solar photovoltaic system 100 kg or less in weight

If the total weight of a solar photovoltaic system is less than 100 kg, it doesn’t require a development application for installation, unless any of the following apply:

  • the proposed system has a generating capacity of more than 5MW, and will be connected to the grid
  • the building is a State Heritage Place
  • the building is a Local Heritage Place and the system will be able to be seen by a person standing at ground level in a public street.


Installation of a solar photovoltaic system over 100 kg or more in weight

If the total weight of a solar photovoltaic system is 100 kg or more in weight, it will be exempt from Development Approval if it complies with the following:

  • the weight load is distributed so that it does not exceed 100 kg at any one point of attachment to the roof
  • the panels (and any associated components) do not overhang any part of the roof
  • the panels are fitted parallel to the roof with the underside surface of the panels being not more than 100 mm above the surface of the roof
  • the panels are installed by a contractor with the appropriate accreditation
  • the building is not a State Heritage Place
  • the building is not a Local Heritage Place, or if it is a Local Heritage Place, the system will not be able to be seen by a person standing at ground level in a public street
  • the proposed system has a generating capacity of less than 5MW, if connected to the grid.

If you require development approval, please submit an application via the PlanSA Portal, which will then be assessed by the Council.

Website resources

Solar PV and batteries information and tips

Energy.gov.au provides information, tips and links to reputable web resources. 

Energy.gov.au is a website of the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.

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Australia's guide to environmentally sustainable homes

Your Home is Australia’s independent guide to designing, building or renovating homes to ensure they are energy efficient, comfortable, affordable and adaptable for the future.

Your home is an Australian Government website. 

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Climate Ready Homes

Resilient East has a series of resources and tips on being energy efficient and climate ready. 

Resilient East is a partnership between state and local government organisations in eastern Adelaide.

Visit website