Australian Solar Rebates & STCs Explained: What You Get in 2026

How the Federal Solar Rebate Works

The Australian government doesn't hand you a cheque for going solar. Instead, the rebate works through a system called Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs).

When you install solar panels, your system generates a number of STCs based on its size and location. Your installer typically handles the STCs for you, applying the discount upfront to your quote.

How Much Are STCs Worth?

The value fluctuates, but in 2026 each STC is worth approximately $38-$40. A typical 6.6kW system generates around 80-100 STCs, giving you a discount of roughly $3,000-$4,000.

The Rebate Is Shrinking

The STC scheme reduces by one-fifteenth each year until it ends on 31 December 2030. That means:

• 2026 — Multiplier at current level
• 2027 — Reduced further
• 2028-2030 — Continues declining
• 2031 — No more STCs

The sooner you install, the bigger the rebate.

State-by-State Incentives

Victoria

• Solar Homes Program: Up to $1,400 rebate on panels
• Interest-free loans available
• Battery rebate also available

New South Wales

• No direct rebate, but strong feed-in tariffs
• Energy bill savings through Peak Demand Reduction Scheme
• Various retailer offers for solar customers

Queensland

• Interest-free loans for solar and batteries
• Battery booster program
• Regional solar programs in some councils

South Australia

• Home Battery Scheme: Up to $4,000 off batteries
• Virtual Power Plant programs
• Strong feed-in tariff options

Western Australia

• Distributed Energy Buyback Scheme (DEBS)
• Time-varying feed-in rates
• No direct panel rebate beyond STCs

Feed-in Tariffs

Feed-in tariffs pay you for excess solar energy exported to the grid. Rates vary by retailer and state, typically ranging from 3c to 12c per kWh in 2026.

With low feed-in tariffs, maximising self-consumption (using solar power during the day or storing in a battery) delivers better returns than exporting.

How to Claim

Most installers handle the STC process for you. Just make sure:

• Your installer is CEC-accredited
• Panels and inverter are on the Clean Energy Council approved list
• You sign the STC assignment form at installation
• The system is inspected and compliant