Solar Rebates & Incentives in Australia (March 2025)

The Australian government offers several federal and state-based incentives to encourage the installation of solar panels and battery storage. These rebates help reduce the cost of switching to renewable energy, making it easier for homeowners and businesses to benefit from lower electricity bills and a cleaner energy future.

Below is a breakdown of current incentives available in each state and territory.

Federal Solar Incentives

1. Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES)

The Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) provides Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) to eligible households and businesses installing solar power systems under 100kW. These certificates act as a discount, reducing the upfront cost of a new system.

How STCs Work:

• Each STC represents 1 MWh of expected energy generation over the system's lifetime.

• The number of STCs awarded depends on location, system size, and installation date.

• The value of STCs fluctuates based on market demand but directly reduces installation costs.

• The STC scheme is phasing out gradually and will end in 2030, meaning rebates will decrease each year.

2. Large-scale Renewable Energy Target (LRET)

For businesses installing solar systems over 100kW, the Large-scale Renewable Energy Target (LRET) provides Large-scale Generation Certificates (LGCs). Unlike STCs, which offer an upfront discount, LGCs generate an ongoing revenue stream based on the system's energy production.

How LGCs Work:

• 1 LGC is generated per 1 MWh of electricity produced.

• Businesses can sell LGCs to energy retailers and organizations required to meet renewable energy targets.

• This incentive provides a long-term financial benefit rather than an upfront rebate.

State & Territory Solar Incentives

Victoria

1. Solar Panel Rebate

• Eligible homeowners can receive a rebate of up to $1,400 for installing a solar PV system.

• An interest-free loan matching the rebate amount is also available.

2. Solar for Rentals Program

• Landlords can claim a $1,400 rebate to install solar on rental properties.

3. Apartment Solar Rebates

• Apartments can receive up to $2,800 per apartment for shared solar installations.

4. Interest-Free Battery Loans

• Households installing battery storage can access interest-free loans of up to $8,800.

5. Feed-in Tariff (FiT) Updates

• The Victorian government has reduced the minimum feed-in tariff, meaning households will receive lower credits for excess solar energy exported to the grid.

New South Wales (NSW)

1. Battery Rebate & Discount Programs

• NSW offers discounts for households adding battery storage to existing solar systems.

• This initiative supports the state’s goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

2. No Upfront Solar Rebates

• While NSW does not offer direct solar panel rebates, residents can still benefit from STCs under the federal scheme.

Queensland

1. Battery Booster Program (Closed)

• Previously, the Battery Booster Program offered rebates for home battery installations, but this program has now ended.

2. STC Rebates Still Apply

• Even though state battery rebates are unavailable, homeowners and businesses can still access STCs, reducing solar installation costs.

South Australia

1. Home Battery Scheme (Closed)

• South Australia's Home Battery Scheme, which provided subsidies for battery storage, has ended.

2. Virtual Power Plant (VPP) Incentives

• Some energy retailers offer cashback or bill credits to households connecting their batteries to Virtual Power Plants (VPPs), which help stabilize the grid.

Western Australia

1. Renewable Energy Buyback Scheme (REBS)

• Homeowners with solar PV systems can sell excess solar energy back to the grid under the state’s REBS program.

• The rate paid varies depending on the energy retailer and location.

2. No State Solar or Battery Rebates

• WA does not currently offer additional state-funded rebates, but federal STCs still apply.

Tasmania

1. Feed-in Tariffs

• Households can earn credits for sending excess solar energy back to the grid.

• The tariff rate is reviewed annually and varies depending on energy retailers and government policy.

2. No State-Specific Solar Rebates

• While Tasmania does not offer additional state-based solar or battery rebates, STCs remain available.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

1. Next Generation Energy Storage Program (Closed)

• The ACT’s Next Generation Energy Storage Program, which provided subsidies for battery storage, has ended.

2. Feed-in Tariff

• ACT residents with solar systems can still receive credits for exporting excess energy back to the grid.

Northern Territory (NT)

1. Home and Business Battery Scheme (Closed)

• The NT government previously offered battery rebates, but this scheme is now closed.

2. Feed-in Tariff Changes

• The NT offers feed-in tariffs for solar energy exported to the grid, though rates have been reduced for new customers.

Future Solar & Battery Incentives

While some state-funded programs have ended, there is growing discussion about future federal battery rebates. The Clean Energy Council is pushing for a Home Battery Saver Program, which could provide new subsidies for households and businesses in the coming years.

Final Thoughts – Why Invest in Solar Now?

Although some state incentives have ended, Australia’s federal STC scheme still provides significant savings on solar and battery installations. Additionally, the rising cost of electricity makes investing in renewable energy more valuable than ever.

How Energet Can Help

At Energet.com.au, we specialize in helping businesses and homeowners maximize solar savings through expert advice, financing options, and customised solar solutions.

Want to take advantage of available rebates? Contact us today for a free consultation or book a free energy assessment and solar quote for your business or home below.