Fast read
Homeowners in Australia who install a small-scale solar panel system are eligible for the solar rebate, commonly known as the Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs) programme. The rebate, which can range from $2,000 to $3,000 depending on the size of the installation, is given as an upfront discount on the cost of purchasing a solar panel system.
The solar panel system must be installed by a Clean Energy Council (CEC) accredited installer and utilise CEC-approved hardware to qualify for the rebate. The Renewable Energy Target, a government programme designed to promote electricity generation from renewable sources, includes the solar rebate, which is available for installations up to 100 kW.
The rebate is expected to be phased away by 2031 and gradually decline yearly.
Can I get the solar system rebate?
What is the solar system rebate, and how much can I receive?
Since May 2007, grid-connected homes have been eligible for a rooftop solar system rebate of $8000, introduced by the Howard government. While the amounts and the details of the rebate schemes have changed, a decent solar system rebate is still available for anyone who owns a home.
In most cases, the amount homeowners secure nowadays is between $2000 and $3000. If your solar system is bigger, your rebate can be even more significant than the above amounts. The solar system rebate is now designed to decrease gradually every year on the 31st of December, and it is supposed to be phased out by 2031.
The national solar system rebate, now called Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs), is an upfront discount on the purchase price of the solar system.
What are the criteria to be eligible?
To be eligible for a solar system rebate, there are some essential requirements:
- The solar system must be installed within 12 months before applying for STCs.
- An eligible site must install the solar power system before the rebate is supplied. These include shops, houses, townhouses, residential apartments, and commercial premises.
- The solar system should be a complete, new unit.
- Solar Credits are not available for more than one eligible system per address. I saw buildings receiving money for different systems. These systems were installed ten years apart. The reason for this was that old records were not well kept.
- A small-scale, eligible solar PV system needs to be installed by a Clean Energy Council (CEC) accredited installer. In addition, it must use CEC-accredited equipment such as panels, inverter solutions and racking.
- No matter how long the solar credit is valid, it can only be used once per installation.
The solar system rebate is part of the Renewable Energy Target, an Australian Government scheme to encourage additional power generation from sustainable and renewable sources. It can fluctuate in price, as it is linked to the value of the small certificates. The price you see already includes the rebate.
Any quote you receive will already have the rebate deducted. This is a common practice in the industry. The STC rebate scheme applies for systems up to 100 kW.
Large-scale renewable energy target
Save big and go green with the Large-scale Renewable Energy Target (LRET), an initiative for large commercial solar setups over 100kW. This program offers significant rebates, giving businesses a chance to boost financial efficiency while contributing to a sustainable future.
Choosing a solar system above 100kW not only cuts costs but also shows environmental responsibility. The LRET encourages clean energy adoption, creating a win-win for your company and the planet.
Making the most of the LRET and its solar rebate program is easy with a trusted solar installation company. They’ll guide you through the process, ensuring you maximise available incentives.
So we say – take advantage of the solar rebate while you can!
