Being out in the bush doesn’t mean you miss out on solar power rebates and incentives. While the Renewable Remote Power Generation Program ended some years ago, the federal government’s Small-scale Technology Certificates are still available, providing subsidies for off grid solar power systems.
As you explore sustainable energy solutions in remote locations, consider gaining insights into the potential benefits of your off-grid setup with FREE solar quotes from Energy Matters, ensuring a well-informed and environmentally conscious approach to powering remote spaces.
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This page contains information on off grid solar power rebates for:
- households,
- communities,
- not-for-profits,
- business,
- government
- and other organisations in remote areas of Australia, far from a mains electricity power supply.
Federal Government – Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs)
As part of Australia’s Renewable Energy Target, financial incentives are available for people installing off grid solar power systems.
Households and businesses installing systems on buildings are eligible to receive Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). The savings from STCs can amount to thousands of dollars for larger systems.
STC off-grid guidelines
- The system must be an eligible small-scale solar panel system (or wind or hydro)
- The system installation must be at an eligible premise.
- It must be a new and full system
Your system, whether a Solar PV System, Wind Turbine or Hydro System, will be assigned a designated number of STCs. These STCs are equivalent to 1MWh (megawatt hour) of energy displaced or generated by the renewable energy system. The number of STCs assigned to your system will depend on the expected MWh of energy displaced or generated over the course of 5 years or a single maximum deeming period.
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Small-scale technology certificates must be created within 12 months of the system being installed to be valid. For example, a system installed on 1 January 2024 is only eligible for certificates until 11:59 pm AEDST on 31 December 2024.
The Renewable Energy Certificate Registry (REC Registry) is an online system allowing Renewable Energy Target participants to create, transfer and surrender renewable energy certificates, including STCs and LGCs.
You will need a REC Registry account if you intend to:
- create STCs for a solar water heater, small-scale solar panel, wind or hydro installation that you own
- create STCs for installations on behalf of others
- apply to accredit a renewable energy power station
- create LGCs for an accredited power station
- purchase, transfer or surrender of STCs or LGCs, or
- use the STC Clearing House.
For more information, please see Create an account.
Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)
RECs/STCs issue from the Office of the Renewable Energy Regulator. They ensure that the Australian Government meets its Mandatory Renewable Energy Target (MRET) of 20% by 2020.
Off grid solar power rebates
Small-scale Technology Certificates are provided when an eligible off grid wind energy or solar power system is installed. The value of STCs varies based on system size and location. Determining eligibility and calculating the value of STCs for your intended off grid equipment purchase can be something of a complex process, so contact our team for free, no-obligation advice.
1. Households
Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs): As part of Australia’s Renewable Energy Target, households installing off-grid solar power systems are eligible for STCs. These certificates provide financial incentives and can amount to thousands of dollars for larger systems. The savings from STCs help offset the initial installation costs.
2. Communities
Community Solar Programs: Some local councils and organisations collaborate to set up community solar projects. These initiatives often receive funding or grants from government bodies or private foundations. Community members can participate by investing in or benefiting from these shared solar installations.
3. Not-for-profits
Grants and funding: Not-for-profit organisations working in remote areas can apply for grants and funding specifically aimed at renewable energy projects. These grants may cover some of the costs of installing off-grid solar systems.
4. Businesses
- Small business tax incentives: Small businesses operating off-grid can take advantage of tax incentives related to renewable energy investments. Consult with a tax professional to explore available deductions and credits.
- Energy efficiency grants: Some state and federal programs offer grants to businesses implementing energy-efficient solutions, including off-grid solar systems.
5. Government and other organisations
- Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs): Government agencies and other organisations can benefit from RECs. These certificates represent the environmental attributes of renewable energy generation. By installing off-grid solar systems, these entities contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and can trade RECs in the market.
- Research and development grants: Organizations involved in solar technology research and development may qualify for grants to advance off-grid solar solutions.
Read more about off grid solar rebates and incentives:
Key considerations
- Eligibility: Ensure that your project meets the eligibility criteria for specific rebates and incentives.
- System size: The number of certificates or incentives depends on the system’s capacity and energy generation.
- Timelines: Certificates must be created within 12 months of system installation to be valid.
- Environmental impact: Off-grid solar systems contribute to sustainability and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
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*Prices quoted are to be used as a guide only and do not factor in state and other rebates and incentives. Includes STC discount.
