How to Apply for Solar Rebates
Small businesses and households all over Australia are able to benefit from the numerous solar energy rebates such as the SRES or Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme. All they really have to do is purchase a small-scale renewable energy system or a hot water solar system which is eligible, and the government will aid with the costs. Below are a few of the benefits associated with solar rebates:
When you install a system that is eligible you are able to create an STC or Small scale Technology Certificate. The STCs have a value which can be either assigned or redeemed by simply selling them. The amount of small scale technology certificate created is typically founded on the following:
- Just how much renewable energy the eligible system produces
- How much energy consumption it helps to reduce
- The regional climate where the system is installed.
What systems are eligible for solar rebates?
Small scale renewable systems like the following can become eligible for certificates:
- Wind turbines
- Solar panels
- Hydro systems
- Air source heat pumps
- Solar water systems
How does an owner receive their STC benefit?
There are two ways an owner or installer can receive benefits for their assigned STCs. They are:
- Assigning the STC to an agent which is generally a system installer. The system installer then exchanges the STCs for a reduction or for a future cash payment
- Choosing to sell the certificates directly
When it comes to selling off the certificates there are two options to select from:
- The certificates can either be sold openly in an STC market where the value of a certificate is subject to traditional market forces
- They can also be sold through a sort of clearinghouse where the certificate is valued at $40
How to apply for a rebate in Victoria
This Victoria rebate is open to customers that understand and meet the requirements set by the Solar Homes Program. Here is how to apply:
- Contact a solar energy provider to get a quote
- The quote is then uploaded to the Victoria portal which is then used to help start your online process to determine if you are eligible for the rebate. As soon as this is done, you will be able to upload your income evidence as well as a rate notice confirming your information.
- Once you get approval that you are confirmed, the retailer then helps you claim your rebate, with the rebate then being deducted from the overall system cost.
New South Wales
For Retail Customers
- Call the energy provider
- Offer up health care or concession card information.
- Request that the eligible rebate is applied to your account
- Request for confirmation
For Supply Customers
- Choose the apply online header at https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/
- Sign up or log into the account
- Click the services section on the dashboard
- Go to the section marked NSW Energy Rebates
- Acquiesce to the Terms and Conditions
- Enter your information
- Upload your invoice
- Agree to submit your application
Western Australia, Queensland, Southern Australia And Tasmania
The states above run their solar rebates through the clean energy regulator: