Investing in solar energy can be a big financial decision, but the benefits are well worth it. Long-term savings and environmental impact aside, one of the best incentives for going solar in New South Wales (NSW) is the availability of solar rebates. Let’s look at all things solar rebates – including how to get them.

How do I get a solar rebate in New South Wales?

What’s a solar rebate?

First things first, let’s get clear on what a solar rebate is. A solar rebate is a financial incentive provided by the government, which encourages the adoption of solar energy. In NSW, a rebate like this can help offset the cost of installing a solar system making it more affordable for locals to make the switch.

What type of solar rebates can you expect to receive?

In NSW, there are a few financial incentives on offer for you:

  1. Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs): Once an eligible solar system is installed, STCs can be claimed. The number of STCs you can receive is determined by the total amount of energy your solar system is expected to make over its lifetime. And that expectation is dependent on both the size and location of your solar system. Solar system owners can claim STCs and sell them to electricity retailers. Electricity retailers use these to meet their own renewable energy targets.
  2. Feed-in Tariffs: A feed-in tariff is a payment made by your electricity provider for the excess electricity that your solar system has generated. In other words, you can earn money for your unused electricity. The amount payable by your electricity provider depends on the amount of electricity that’s fed back into the grid, of course. And the amount of your unused electricity also depends on the design and location of your solar system, as well as your own usage habits.
  3. Other state-specific rebates and incentives: From the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) to upgrade incentives, be sure to visit gov.au/rebates for up-to-date rebates and incentives in NSW.

Benefits of a solar rebates

  1. Reduced upfront cost: Rebates and incentives significantly reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system, making solar more affordable for locals.
  2. Improved return on investment (ROI): Reduced upfront costs and ongoing energy bill savings improve the ROI for a solar system. Homeowners and businesses can expect to see a quicker payback period for their investment. Discover how to calculate the long-term cost savings of solar.
  3. Increased property value: Installing a solar system has been known to increase property value, and positively influence the marketing campaign. Read more about how solar energy can boost your property value.

How to apply for a solar rebate

  1. Choose a certified installer: Ensure that your solar installer is certified and accredited by the Clean Energy Council (CEC).
  2. Save documentation: File all documentation, including proof of purchase, installation certificates and system specifications. These documents will be essential for your claims.
  3. Submit your application: Work with a CEC certified and accredited installer to submit the applications for all available rebates.
  4. Track your certificates: Once a rebate like STCs has been issued, track and sell them through registered agents to receive your rebate.

Deadlines to be aware of

Now that you know what’s available, it’s just as important to stay across deadlines. For example:

  • STC registration: STCs need to be registered within 12 months of the installation date. If not completed within this timeframe, you may lose the eligibility to claim.
  • Other state-specific rebates and incentives: Rebates and incentives change from time-to-time. Be sure to visit gov.au/rebates for up-to-date rebates and incentives in NSW. And, make sure you note down timeline specifics for any rebate or incentive you plan to apply for, before your system installation.

 

Understanding how solar rebates work can make a significant difference in the affordability and financial viability of installing a solar system here in NSW. By taking advantage of rebates and incentives on offer, you can reduce your upfront costs and improve your ROI. This guide is general in nature and has been created to help you understand some of the basics. Rest assured, we’re experts and we’re here to help you understand these concepts in more detail.

If you’re considering going solar, talk to us about rebates and incentives and start your journey to solar today. Call us on 1300 4 SOLAR.