
Looking to reduce your energy bills with solar power for your Central Coast business? Whether you run a small office in Gosford or a manufacturing site in Somersby, choosing the right system size — 30kW, 100kW, or 250kW — is key to getting value from commercial solar.
In this guide, we break down the real-world differences in cost, output, and ideal use cases to help you make the right call.
Why Solar System Size Matters for Commercial Sites
Not every business needs a massive system — but going too small can limit your savings. The right commercial solar system should match your daytime energy consumption, roof space, and future plans.
30kW Commercial Solar System
Best for:
- Small businesses
- Workshops or trades
- Medical clinics or cafes
- Offices with low daytime usage
Estimated Cost (ex-GST):
$25,000 – $40,000
Key Points:
- Generates approx. 110–130 kWh per day
- Eligible for STC rebates (Small-scale Technology Certificates)
- Compact system with lower upfront cost
- ROI in ~3 years for businesses with $1,500+ monthly power bills
100kW Commercial Solar System
Best for:
- Warehouses
- Aged care centres
- Large retail operations
- Commercial kitchens or cold storage
Estimated Cost (ex-GST):
$70,000 – $120,000
Key Points:
- Generates around 400 kWh per day
- Still eligible for STC rebate (under 100kW threshold)
- Strong return for medium-to-large power users
- Common benchmark for businesses wanting serious energy bill reductions
250kW Commercial Solar System
Best for:
- Large factories and logistics hubs
- Agribusiness operations
- Multi-site or energy-intensive buildings
- Manufacturers with 24/7 operations
Estimated Cost (ex-GST):
$180,000+
Key Points:
- Generates 1,000+ kWh per day
- Ineligible for STCs (must claim LGCs under the Large-Scale Renewable Energy Target)
- Requires grid application and metering upgrades
- Strongest ROI for high-load users paying peak commercial rates
What Else Should You Consider?
System Size | Estimated Cost | Daily Output | Suited For |
---|---|---|---|
30kW | $25k–$40k | 110–130 kWh | Small shops, offices, tradies |
100kW | $70k–$120k | ~400 kWh | Retail, warehouse, aged care |
250kW+ | $180k+ | 1,000+ kWh | Manufacturing, logistics, agribusiness |
What Else Should You Consider?
When comparing system sizes, don’t just look at panel count. Think about:
- Your energy usage pattern – When and how much power you use
- Roof space and structural suitability – Flat metal roofs are easiest to work with
- Local energy tariffs and demand charges – We factor in your current bill to size your system properly
- Battery compatibility – Larger systems can pair with commercial battery storage to reduce demand charges
What System Do Central Coast Businesses Usually Choose?
- Tradies, clinics, and offices often start with 30kW systems to reduce day-to-day overheads.
- Warehouses and schools go for 100kW systems, striking a balance between cost and coverage.
- Food manufacturers, logistics, and agri-operations tend to go straight for 250kW+ systems to handle their large loads.
Need Help Figuring Out What Size You Need?
No two businesses are the same. That’s why we offer site assessments, usage reviews, and tailored system design — all obligation-free.