Solar Rebate & STC Calculator Australia
Calculate your federal Small-scale Technology Certificate (STC) rebate and state-specific solar incentives. Updated for 2025 rates and current government programs.
About Solar Rebates in Australia
The federal government provides Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) that reduce the upfront cost of solar systems. The rebate amount depends on your location's solar zone and system size. Some states also offer additional rebates and incentives.
System Details
Enter your system specifications to calculate available rebates
Common sizes: 6.6kW (standard), 10kW (large home), 13.2kW (very large)
STC rebate amounts vary by solar zone
STC rebate reduces each year until 2030
Select Your Location
Choose your state to see available rebates and incentives
How Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) Work
What are STCs?
STCs are certificates created when you install a solar system. Each certificate represents 1 megawatt-hour of renewable electricity your system will generate over its lifetime. These certificates have monetary value and are sold to reduce your system cost.
How the Rebate Works
Your installer typically handles the STC process and applies the rebate as a discount on your system price. The number of STCs depends on your location's solar zone - areas with more sunshine generate more certificates.
STC Zones Explained
Highest rebate
Northern Territory, Far North QLD
High rebate
Queensland, Northern WA
Medium rebate
NSW, ACT, Perth, Adelaide
Standard rebate
Victoria, Tasmania, Southern SA
State Solar Rebates & Incentives
Victoria
Solar Homes Program provides rebates up to $1,400 for eligible households plus interest-free loans. Battery rebates also available.
Up to $1,400 + interest-free loan
South Australia
Home Battery Scheme offers subsidies for battery storage. Combined with federal battery rebate for maximum savings.
Battery subsidies available
New South Wales
Federal STC rebate applies. Check local council programs for additional incentives. Energy efficiency rebates may also be available.
Federal STC rebate
Queensland
Higher STC zone means more certificates. Federal rebate provides significant savings. Excellent solar conditions maximize system output.
Zone 2 - Higher STC rebate
Important Information
STC values fluctuate: The $35 per STC used in this calculator is approximate. Actual values vary based on market conditions.
Installation requirements: Systems must be installed by Clean Energy Council accredited installers using approved components to be eligible for STCs.
State rebate eligibility: State rebates often have income limits, property value caps, and other eligibility criteria. Check specific program requirements.
Solar Rebate FAQ
What is the STC rebate for solar panels in Australia?
The Small-scale Technology Certificate (STC) rebate provides approximately $2,000-$4,500 off solar system costs depending on system size and location. STCs are created based on expected electricity generation over the system's lifetime and sold to reduce your upfront cost. Your installer handles the paperwork and applies the discount automatically.
How much is the solar rebate in 2025?
In 2025, a typical 6.6kW solar system receives approximately $2,500-$3,200 in STC rebates depending on your location's solar zone. Northern areas (Zone 1-2) receive more STCs than southern areas (Zone 3-4). The rebate decreases each year and will phase out by 2030.
When does the solar rebate end?
The STC rebate reduces by approximately one-fifteenth each year until 2030, when the scheme ends completely. Installing solar sooner means you receive more STCs and a larger rebate. In 2025, you still receive a significant rebate, but waiting reduces your potential savings.
Do I need to apply for the STC rebate?
No, your installer handles everything. Most installers offer a "point of sale discount" where they purchase your STCs upfront and reduce your system price accordingly. This means you see the rebate as an instant discount rather than having to claim it separately.