The Small-Scale Technology Rebate: What is it and how can home owners benefit?
Key Takeaways
Published: July 1, 2024 | Last updated: February 2026
The Small-scale Technology Certificate (STC) rebate is a federal government incentive that significantly reduces the upfront cost of solar installations. For a typical 6.6kW system in Perth, this rebate can save you thousands of dollars.
The rebate amount decreases annually until 2030, so acting sooner means bigger savings. Talk Energy handles all rebate paperwork as part of your installation.
Faran Tirmazi
In recent years, the concept of sustainable living has gained popularity, and with it, the focus on renewable energy sources.
Governments around the world have introduced various policies to encourage the adoption of clean energy technologies, one of which is the Small Scale Technology Rebate.
In this blog, we will explore what the Small Scale Technology Rebate is, why it exists, how funding is generated, and how homeowners can benefit from it.
What is the Small Scale Technology Rebate?
The Small Scale Technology Rebate (STC) is a financial incentive offered by the Australian government to encourage the installation of renewable energy systems in homes and businesses.
The STC scheme is designed to reduce the upfront cost of purchasing and installing clean energy technologies such as solar panels, wind turbines, and solar water heaters.
The rebate is available for systems with a capacity of less than 100kW, which makes it suitable for small-scale residential and commercial properties.
Why does the Small Scale Technology Rebate exist?
The STC scheme was introduced to help Australia transition to a low-carbon economy and reduce the country’s carbon footprint.
By incentivizing the adoption of renewable energy technologies, the government hopes to encourage more people to move away from traditional fossil fuel-based energy sources.
This shift towards clean energy not only helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also supports the growth of the renewable energy industry in Australia.
How is funding generated for the Small Scale Technology Rebate? The funding for the STC scheme is generated through the Renewable Energy Target (RET) scheme.
Under the RET, electricity retailers are required to purchase a certain amount of renewable energy certificates each year.
These certificates are then sold to customers who have installed renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, and the revenue generated from the sale of certificates is used to fund the STC rebate.
How can homeowners benefit from the Small Scale Technology Rebate?
There are several benefits to installing renewable energy systems in your home or business, and the STC rebate makes it more affordable to do so.
By installing solar panels or a solar water heater, for example, you can reduce your reliance on the grid and save money on your electricity bills.
You may even be able to sell excess energy back to the grid, further reducing your energy costs.
In addition to the financial benefits, using renewable energy sources can also help to reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Installing a renewable energy system can increase the value of your property and make it more attractive to potential buyers if you decide to sell in the future.
Conclusion
The Small Scale Technology Rebate is a valuable incentive for homeowners and businesses looking to adopt renewable energy technologies.
By reducing the upfront cost of installation, the STC scheme makes it more accessible for people to invest in clean energy sources, which ultimately benefits both the individual and the environment.
With the support of policies like the STC, we can work towards a more sustainable future and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for the STC rebate?
You do not need to apply for the STC rebate yourself. Your CEC-accredited solar installer creates the Small-scale Technology Certificates after installation and assigns them to a registered agent.
The rebate value is then applied as an upfront point-of-sale discount on your solar system. Talk Energy manages the entire STC process for you, so the discount is already included in your quote.
What are the eligibility criteria for the STC rebate?
To be eligible, your solar system must be installed by a CEC-accredited installer using CEC-approved panels and inverters. The system must be under 100kW capacity, installed at a valid Australian address with an electrical connection, and comply with all Australian Standards.
Both new installations and system upgrades qualify. Talk Energy meets all CEC accreditation requirements for every installation across Perth.
How much can I save with STCs on a 6.6kW system?
For a 6.6kW solar system installed in Perth in 2026, the STC rebate is worth approximately $2,800 to $3,200, depending on the current STC spot price and the number of years remaining until the scheme ends in 2031.
This rebate is applied as an upfront discount, significantly reducing the out-of-pocket cost. As the rebate decreases each year, installing sooner means a larger saving.
