Guide to Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STC) Solar Rebate

What Is A Solar Rebate?

The government launched solar incentives to encourage solar users to produce electricity financially. Since the high upfront prices of solar panels can be deterrents for bill-paying customers, they were first developed to enable individuals and companies to buy solar panels.

Therefore, Rebates for solar panels help Australians pay off these systems more, increasing homeowner interest in installing them and promoting the spread of solar power across Australia's electricity grid.

NSW Solar Rebates

Low-income homes in NSW can receive a free 3kWh solar energy system as part of this programme. The NSW government can provide a free solar system if you live there and are eligible for the low-income household rebate.

VIC Solar Rebates

The government regulates feed-in tariffs in Victoria, requiring suppliers to give a minimum rate of 4.9c/kWh.

QLD Solar Rebates

Its recently introduced Battery Booster programme discounts home solar battery purchases of 6kWh or more in the state and provides one significant solar incentive to consumers.

STC Solar Rebate in Australia

A Small-Scale Technology Certificate is known as an STC. They may also be referred to as the solar rebate informally. STCs were included in Australia's Renewable Energy Target in 2011.

The goal of this incentive, sometimes known as a "rebate," is to lower the cost of putting solar power on your house or place of business by producing these technology certificates. The size of the solar system being installed determines how many STCs are relevant to your system.

In 2020, a 6.6kW solar system, on average, will be eligible for 100 STCs, with each STC worth about $35. Thus, you would receive a total STC rebate of almost $3,500 for a 6.6-kilowatt solar system.

How Does STC Solar Rebate Work?

When solar systems meet certain requirements, STC rebates are awarded. At the time of purchase, the system's cost is reduced by the amount that may be redeemed for a monetary value.

The government doesn't pay out the money you save, and the STC programme isn't a rebate. Instead, the government mandates that the fossil fuel business purchase solar technology certificates (STCs) from solar energy providers, providing the funds to make your new solar system more inexpensive (yes, it is much more involved than that, but for the time being, this simplified, functional version will suffice).

What Is An STC Worth?

One megawatt-hour (MWh) of renewable power produced or displaceable by qualified small-scale renewable energy systems, such as air source heat pumps, solar PV, wind, hydro, and solar water heaters, equals one STC.

The demand for certificates, the quantity of certificates issued, and market conditions affect an STC's value. Homes and small companies can redeem the value of STCs by selling or assignment, lowering the initial cost of installing renewable energy installations.

Australia's overall proportion of renewable energy output increases due to the STC rebate programme, which increases the accessibility and affordability of renewable energy systems. Individuals and small companies may directly support the country's renewable energy targets and promote a cleaner, greener future by participating in the programme.

Who Is Eligible for STC Solar Rebate?

Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) are financial incentives the Australian government offers to companies and homes that install qualifying small-scale renewable energy systems, including solar water heaters, wind, solar PV, and hydropower.

The renewable energy system must fulfil specific requirements established by the Clean Energy Regulator to qualify for STCs. Before certificates are granted, air source heat pumps and solar water heaters must have been installed a year ago, classified as small-scale, and registered on the solar water heater registration.

Under the Solar Technology Council Solar Rebates scheme, financing is offered to purchase solar energy systems, including solar panels, inverters, and related equipment. You must fulfil the following requirements to be qualified for the programme:

• You have to be a citizen or lawful permanent resident of Australia.
• Your residence or place of business must be your own.
• It would help if you adequately connected to the electrical distribution network.
• A minimum total system size of 2.5kW is required.
• An authorised installer is required to install your solar system.
• You can only get a refund if your solar system is running.
• After installation, you have three months to claim for the reimbursement.
• You have to show documentation of the system's installation and purchase.
• It might be necessary to ask you for more details.

How Much Can STC Solar Rebate Save?

Using a real-world example is the simplest way to illustrate how much STCs may save you (don't worry, all the figures are pretty standard, so you can truly get a sense of it). If you selected a 6.6kW system in Brisbane in 2021 and the equipment and installation cost $10,357, you will be qualified for ninety-one STCs.

The STCs in your zone currently have a market value of $37.00. To get your discount, multiply the number of STCs you qualify for by their current dollar value. This amount is then subtracted from the total cost of the solar system.

$10,357 for a 6.6 kW solar system with installation included on average, plus (91) STCs x $37.00

With your new solar system, you save $3,367 for a net cost of $6,990.

(Data Source: Shoal Haven Solar)

Get a quotation from us right now to find out the precise price.

Your STCs have already been factored in and subtracted from the price when you buy your solar system from Energy Partners. After that, you allocate the STCs to us, and we handle all the administrative work while you immediately receive a price reduction. Regards, STCs.

Please be aware that this is solely a rough approximation derived from the value at the time of writing. The state of the market will affect the actual worth.

Factors Affect STC Value 

Numerous variables impact the worth of Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) in Australia. The solar installation's location is one of the main elements influencing its value. Based on the postcode, Australia is separated into many zones, each with a distinct degree of sun irradiation, eventually affecting the number of STCs allotted to a given system.

The size of the installed solar system is another element that influences STC value. This implies that the quantity of STCs grows with solar system size. The amount of Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (STC) allotted to qualifying solar installations - such as solar PV, wind, hydro, and solar water heater systems - is decided by the SRES.

How To Calculate STC?

After you've satisfied the requirements to be eligible for the Solar Technology Council Solar Rebates, you may apply to get up to $5,000 back towards the cost of your solar energy system. This reimbursement is valid for five years from the installation date and will be a one-time payment.

STCs are computed using a renewable energy system's anticipated energy-generating output. Megawatt-hours (MWh) are used to measure this production. The total STC value is then obtained by multiplying the computed output by the MWh price.

A renewable energy system's predicted energy-generating output must first be estimated to determine the system's STC value accurately. The system's size, location, and average daily sunlight hours are only a few variables that go into estimating its output.

The overall STC value is then calculated by multiplying the predicted energy output by the MWh price. The overall STC value, for instance, would be 10 x $40 = $400 if a system produces 10 MWh of energy per year and a MWh is $40.

Next, the relevant STC value multiplier is applied to the STC value. The multiplier is contingent upon the system's dimensions and geographic coordinates. Systems in Australia's sunny regions would often have larger STC value multipliers than those in the country's less sunny areas.

After establishing the STC value, it can be sold to the Clearing House. Owners of renewable energy systems must get STC incentives from the Clearing House. The overall STC value will determine the precise number of STCs the system owner receives. 

How to Apply STC Solar Rebate?

Getting the STC solar rebate in Australia for installing a solar system is simple. Your energy regulator will provide this cash incentive if you fulfil all the conditions. Before claiming the discount, it's helpful to grasp a few essential elements so you know what to anticipate and how it operates.

Step 1: Determine eligibility criteria & dollar value of STCs.

Comprehensive facts on solar photovoltaic systems and related expenses; the Energy Regulator's website or contact information; You may see use and demand statistics (kWh/day) on your power account.

Step 2: Submit the application form online or by mail with the required documentation.

• A legitimate picture ID;
• Evidence of PV system ownership; blueprints or plans showing the system configuration;
• Proof of a certificate of permission for grid connection or other comparable document(s);
• A quote from the installation that includes work costs, a complete cost breakdown of the solar system's parts, GST (if applicable), and any other costs the installer may charge;
• PV system electrical wiring schematics; a certified individual's installation certificate (AP).

Step 3: Receive payment once approved.

Provide your bank account number, branch system code, and other information to enable direct payment into your designated bank account. If preferred, you may also submit forms on paper. Small checks may occasionally be mailed straight to the registered address provided when applying to a rebate programme.

Jackery Solar Generators Explained

When maximising solar savings, it's essential to consider the rebate and other factors that can increase efficiency and affordability. Beyond the refund, optimising your solar panel system's size and placement can enhance energy production and savings over time.

Jackery is a renowned manufacturer in the solar industry, focusing on producing top-notch solar equipment like solar generators, solar panels, and portable power stations. Jackery Solar Generators offer a reliable and uninterrupted power supply for your household appliances.  

Moreover, integrating energy storage solutions such as the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus or 1000 Plus can complement your solar panel system by storing excess energy generated during the day during peak demand or at night. This ensures an uninterrupted power supply and enables greater self-sufficiency, ultimately enhancing your solar savings and reducing reliance on the grid.

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus

Jackery has unveiled the Solar Generator 2000 Plus, a cutting-edge portable power solution with exceptional performance. Thanks to its substantial capacity and formidable power output, this device can sustain the operation of standard domestic appliances for several weeks and fulfil all the power needs associated with outdoor adventure or professional activity.

The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus allows adding extra battery packs, which boosts the capacity from 2 kWh to a remarkable 12 kWh, thus enhancing the solar charging capabilities significantly. With the ability to be expanded to 3000W, this solar product offers a 30% higher rated power than other 2 kWh solar goods available in the market.

The Explorer 2000 Plus is an industry's pioneering add-on battery pack that can be recharged using solar panels. This feature enhances versatility, improves charging efficiency, and reduces charging time. The LiFePO4 battery, with its sophisticated technology, guarantees a lifespan of 10 years, even with daily usage limited to once per day. Jackery Solar Panels generate more energy over their lifespan due to their exceptional solar conversion efficiency, reaching up to 25%.

• Massive Battery Capacity: With a whopping 2042.8Wh capacity, powered by LFP (LiFePO4 battery) cell chemistry, you can keep your devices running for extended periods.
• High-Powered Outputs: Enjoy up to 3000W of continuous AC power, 100W of USB-C power, and Quick Charge 3.0 technology for rapid charging.
• Fast Charging: Say goodbye to long waits for recharging. With the included AC adapter, you can fully recharge the Explorer 2000 Plus in just 1.7 hours, ensuring minimal downtime between adventures.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus is the best portable power supply due to its exceptional output. It can aid in home emergencies and other outdoor activities. It is the all-in-one solar generator for your life due to its versatility and size.

Supports up to three additional battery packs, bringing the total capacity to 5kWh and providing 1-3 days of home backup power. A solar generator can power your communication devices, medical equipment, household appliances, and outdoor electronics, bringing comfort and convenience.  

The Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus portable power station, with a 10-year lifespan and a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, provides a consistent voltage and pure sine wave to ensure the safety of all your electrical gadgets. Additionally, the innovative ChargeShield technology and consistent power delivery avoid equipment damage.

• ChargeShield Technology: The innovative ChargeShield technology and consistent power delivery avoid equipment damage.
• Ultra-Fast Solar Charging: Advanced IBC Technology, Fast Solar Charge in 4.5 Hours with Solar Panel 100W*4.
• Intelligent Control: With the advanced APP feature, via WiFi or Bluetooth.

Is STC Solar Rebate Worth It?

An essential part of Australia's renewable energy subsidies is the Small-scale Technology Certificate (STC). It lowers the initial cost of solar installations by offering financial assistance to homes and businesses that install qualified solar panel systems. Like every incentive scheme, the STC solar rebate system has advantages and disadvantages.

Financial Incentive: Using the STC system can significantly decrease the upfront costs associated with solar systems. STCs are only sometimes worth the money, but they significantly impact lowering the cost of solar energy.

Encourages Renewable Energy: The STC system, a component of Australia's Renewable Energy Target, offers small-scale installers, enterprises, and people a financial incentive to promote the expansion of renewable energy. This support is the reason for the increase in solar power unit installations.

Flexible Trading: Because the certificates are tradeable, system owners have more options for recovering expenses. They can give their STCs to a licenced agent for a specific fee or sell them on the open market.

However, many market conditions can impact the value of STCs over time. Owners of solar energy systems that depend on STC values for financial planning may see a reduction in their potential savings due to this uncertainty.

The STC system is limited to small-scale renewable energy systems, which include air-source heat pumps, solar water heaters, and wind and hydro projects. If someone or an organisation wants to pursue larger-scale renewable initiatives, they must seek assistance from other programmes.

The STC solar rebate in Australia is an excellent tool for promoting the adoption of renewable energy sources. Notwithstanding these drawbacks, it has made a substantial national contribution to expanding clean, sustainable energy.

STC Solar Rebate FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about the STC solar rebates in Australia.

1. What is the STC reduction for 2024?

The STC is shortening its deeming period. Installing solar PV and water heaters on January 1, 2024, will result in a 12.5% reduction in STCs and seven years of deeming, as opposed to 8 years for works built-in 2023.

2. What is the STC rebate in QLD?

Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) are used to redeem the refund. Depending on the size and location of your solar system, you will receive a specific amount of STCs when you purchase it. STCs function similarly to cash and show how much electricity your solar system is predicted to produce through 2030.

3. What is the STC value of solar panels?

Standard Test Conditions, or STC, are used by PV manufacturers to grade their products. STC stands for solar irradiation of 1,000 watts per square metre, cell temperature of 25 degrees Celsius, air mass of 1.5, and ASTM G173-03 standard spectrum.

4. What is the STC rebate in Victoria?

Payment for any remaining balance is only required upon installation of the equipment. The solar panel rebate, also known as the photovoltaic (PV) rebate, offers a reduction of up to 50 per cent of the total cost of purchasing and installing solar panels, with a maximum limit of $1,400. The calculation is performed after all other discounts, including Small-scale Technology Certificates, have been applied.

5. How much does STC cost?

The STC clearing house is a feature in the REC Registry that enables system owners, registered agents, and responsible companies to purchase and sell STCs at a set price of $40 per certificate, not including GST.

Final Thoughts

To sum up, Australia's STC solar rebate scheme has demonstrated its ability to stimulate long-term, sustainable transformation. Financial incentives and support have enabled people and companies to use solar energy, lowering carbon footprints and promoting a cleaner environment. This information might be helpful if you are interested in the STC solar refund in Australia.