The Victorian Solar Panel Rebate
G'day, sunshine seekers! If you're a Victorian homeowner considering making the switch to solar, you're in luck! There's a brilliant state government rebate that could make your solar dreams much more affordable. Let's break down this sunny opportunity that's too good to miss.
Double the Rebates, Double the Savings!
Here's something to brighten your day – Victorians get to enjoy TWO rebates when installing solar panels! That's right, on top of the Federal government's STC rebate, you can also claim the Victorian Solar Panel Rebate. This state rebate offers a whopping 50% discount off your solar installation, up to $1,400. And if that wasn't enough to make you smile, you can also opt for an interest-free loan of the same amount to further reduce those upfront costs.
Unlike the national rebate which is automatically applied, the Victorian rebate requires an application. But don't worry – we'll walk you through the process step by step, making it as easy as a summer breeze!
Is It Worth the Paperwork?
Absolutely! If you qualify (and we'll help you figure that out in just a moment), this rebate is essentially free money toward your solar system. When combined with the Federal STC rebate, you could save thousands off your installation costs.
Let's crunch some numbers: For a typical solar system that might cost $8,200, you could receive around $1,800 from the Federal rebate (STCs) and another $1,400 from the Victorian rebate. That brings your out-of-pocket expense down to just $5,000! Now that's what we call sunny savings!
Do You Qualify? Let's Find Out!
Before you start planning where to spend those savings, let's make sure you tick all the eligibility boxes:
You must be the owner-occupier of an existing property or own a home under construction where the system will be installed.
Your combined household taxable income (all owners) needs to be less than $210,000 per year.
Your property value must be under $3 million (whether existing or when construction is complete).
Your property address hasn't previously received a solar panel or battery rebate under this program.
Your property hasn't had a solar panel system installed in the last 10 years.
You must choose from approved solar retailers and products.
Good news for those with older systems! If your existing solar setup is more than 10 years old, you can either replace or expand it and still claim this rebate.
And here's a little-known gem – if you've received this rebate for a previous home, you can apply again at your new address (as long as the new property hasn't had a solar installation with this rebate before). How's that for a housewarming gift?
If you're interested in getting solar installed on an investment property, this rebate is also available for landlords.
Your Step-by-Step Rebate Roadmap
Ready to claim your slice of the solar savings pie? Here's how to do it without breaking a sweat:
Step 1: Get a Written Quote
Choose an approved retailer who'll upload a formal quote directly to Solar Victoria's portal. Once that's done, you'll receive an email confirmation with a link to complete the next step. Easy peasy!
Step 2: Prove You're Eligible
Time to gather your paperwork! You'll need:
Two forms of ID (driver's license, Medicare card, Australian passport, birth certificate, citizenship certificate, foreign passport with valid visa, or ImmiCard)
Proof of income, which depends on your situation:
Working folks: Tax Notice of Assessment
Mainly Centrelink income: Centrelink payment summary or Pensioner concession card
No taxable income: Signed Statutory Declaration
Need more details? Solar Victoria's application guide has all the nitty-gritty information.
Step 3: Get Your Golden Ticket
Once approved, you'll receive a special QR code via email. Think of this as your solar passport – your installer must scan it before starting any work, which locks in your rebate. Don't lose it!
Step 4: Install Within the Deadline
The clock starts ticking once you're approved:
Existing homes: You have 120 days to complete the installation
New builds: You get 270 days (giving builders more flexibility)
Miss these deadlines and you'll wave goodbye to your rebate – so mark those calendars!
Step 5: Payment and Loan Repayment
The rebate goes directly to your retailer, instantly reducing your upfront cost. If you opted for the interest-free loan (up to $1,400), repayments begin 30 days after installation at just $29.17 per month over 4 years. That's less than most streaming subscriptions for a much better long-term return!
Remember, the loan isn't automatic – you need to opt in during your application. With zero interest and zero fees, it's a brilliant option if you're watching your cash flow.
The Clock is Ticking!
Like an ice cream on a hot summer day, this rebate won't last forever. Announced in 2018 as a 10-year program, we're already 7 years in – meaning we're definitely closer to the finish line than the starting block.
The rebate has already decreased several times since its launch, which is a good sign that thousands of Victorians have already jumped on board. Victoria is making great progress toward its sustainability goals for 2028, but that also means the rebate pot is getting smaller.
Ready to Soak Up the Solar Savings?
If you've been sitting on the solar fence, now might be the perfect time to make your move. Remember these golden rules for rebate success:
Only work with authorised retailers who can offer this rebate
Submit your documents promptly to get your application approved
Stay proactive so you can get your system installed within the deadline
Ready to join Victoria's solar revolution and start generating your own clean, green energy while saving on your power bills? Click here to speak with a Solar Homes approved solar retailer.
Your future self (and wallet) will thank you for making the switch today!