The Aussie Solar "Rebate"
What is the Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES)?
Thinking about going solar but worried about the upfront cost?
Meet the Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES)—Australia’s way of giving homeowners and small businesses a well-deserved helping hand to switch to clean energy.
The SRES is designed to make the transition to clean, renewable energy smoother for everyday Aussies. By lowering the financial barrier, more households and businesses can embrace renewables and say goodbye to skyrocketing power bills.
Why Should You Care? (AKA: What’s in It for You?)
Besides the obvious “save the planet” perk, the Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme can also save you some serious cash. Here’s how:
1. Instant Discounts with STCs
Instead of waiting years for a rebate, the SRES gives you Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs)—a type of renewable energy currency. Each STC represents the clean energy your solar system will produce over its lifetime. The more energy your system generates, the more STCs you get.
These STCs can be sold to electricity retailers, who buy them off you to meet their renewable energy targets. Most installers will provide the STC discount for you upfront and take care of the selling part for you, knocking thousands off your installation costs straight away. Less paperwork, more savings.
2. Lower Power Bills & Feed-in Tariffs
Once your system is up and running, it reduces the amount of power you need from the grid—which means lower electricity bills! Plus, if your system generates excess energy, you can sell it back to the grid through feed-in tariffs, getting credits on your bill.
3. A Greener Future (and Bragging Rights)
By making the switch, you’re helping cut Australia’s carbon footprint and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Not to mention, you’ll be that eco-conscious legend in your neighbourhood who’s one step ahead in the clean energy game.
How do you claim this incentive?
Not every solar system qualifies for the SRES, so let’s break it down:
✔ Your system must be installed at a home or business in Australia.
✔ The system’s capacity must be 100kW or less AND the system must not product more the 250MWh of power per year (anything bigger falls under the Large-scale Renewable Energy Target)
✔ It must be installed by a Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) accredited installer
✔ Your system must meet Australian standards.
The system you install needs to be eligible under the criteria listed to generate Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) and they are what actually generates the discount.
Understanding STCs (a.k.a. Your Solar Currency)
If you’re wondering “What the heck are STCs?”, think of them as mini-rebates that lower the cost of installing your system. The number of STCs you receive depends on:
✔ Your system’s size – larger systems generate more certificates
✔ Your location – sunnier areas (like Queensland) generate more STCs than cloudier ones (sorry, Tasmania)
✔ How many years are left until the SRES scheme phases out
Most installers will offer you an instant discount in exchange for your STCs—so you don’t need to stress about selling them yourself. Easy peasy!
If you want to find out how many STCs you're eligible for, use our free STC calculator.
How to Claim Your SRES Rebate (Without the Headache)
To cash in on the SRES, follow these simple steps:
Find a New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC) accredited solar retailer – Only certified installers can ensure your system meets all requirements.
Get quotes – Compare a few options to get the best deal and ensure you’re getting a quality system.
Sign your contract & install the system – Your installer takes care of the heavy lifting.
STCs are created & assigned – Your installer typically handles this, applying the discount upfront.
Enjoy the savings! – Watch your power bills shrink and bask in your eco-friendly glory.
Finding a Trusted Installer (Without the Guesswork)
Not all solar installers are created equal. To make sure you’re getting the best deal without the dodgy tactics, keep these tips in mind:
🔹 Choose a New Energy Tech-accredited retailer (it’s non-negotiable!).
🔹 Read reviews & ask for recommendations – Avoid companies with bad feedback or pushy sales tactics.
🔹 Get multiple quotes – If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
🔹 Check warranties & after-sales support – A good installer won’t disappear after installation.
Want to skip the hassle? Rebate Spy can connect you with trusted, accredited providers who will ensure you get the most out of your rebates. No scams, no stress—just savings.
Click here to speak to an accredited provider. (link coming soon)
Time Is Ticking – Don’t Miss Out!
Here’s the catch: The SRES won’t last forever. The number of STCs available reduces each year until the scheme phases out in 2030. That means the sooner you act, the bigger your rebate!
So, what are you waiting for? Check your eligibility, get quotes, and start slashing your power bills today.
Let Rebate Spy do the detective work and connect you with the best deals on solar and other energy-efficient upgrades.