Australian Solar Credits Subsidy

The solar credits program applies to off grid and grid connect wind and solar power installations only - solar hot water rebates  rebates operate under completely different schemes.  Contact us today toll free on 1300 727 151 or email our friendly team for expert, obligation-free advice.

Solar Credits Scheme FAQ

The following are some commonly asked questions and answers regarding the new solar credit program. 

Is this really a rebate?

The program is commonly referred to as the Solar Credits rebate, but in effect it is a subsidy offering up-front discount on the purchase of a solar power system.

Who is the solar panel credits program open to?

Home owners, small businesses and community groups are all eligible for the Australian solar credits program! No-one is means tested under the new solar scheme. The scheme also covers off grid installations. Schools are also eligible for the Solar Credits scheme.

Does it cover remote power systems?

Yes, the solar credits program covers grid connect and off grid solar power systems. Further details about Solar Credits and off-grid solar power systems can be viewed here.

What size system should I buy to achieve the maximum rebate?

Since the phasing out of the Solar Credits multiplier for systems installed after December 31, 2012; size is no longer relevant in terms of level of support for both grid connect and off grid systems.

REC values and "zoning" - how does it affect the solar panel rebate?

The Solar Credits rebates levels are based on two elements - zoning and REC values.

Australia is divided up into various zones based on how much renewable energy can be generated by a solar panel in a given area. You can determine your zone using this table (PDF), or by using the following interactive application.

Note: this REC zone map is a guide only and may not be entirely accurate.
For accurate zone details, check your postcode using this table (PDF)

Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) accompany qualifying solar power equipment. These certificates can be traded in for cash or as a point of sale discount with companies such as Energy Matters. Their values are controlled by market forces; meaning they can fluctuate up and down continuously.

As an example, under the solar credits scheme if you buy a 1.5kW system in Victoria (Zone 4) installed after December 31, 2012, you'll receive:

26 Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). 
26 RECs x $30*/REC = $780 subsidy

A breakdown on different zones (1.5kW systems - all figures approximate):

Zone 1 subsidy = $1,080 (@ $30*/REC) 
Zone 2 subsidy = $1,020 (@ $30*/REC)
Zone 3 subsidy = $930 (@ $30*/REC)
Zone 4 subsidy = $780 (@ $30*/REC)

Note: a GST paying customer (any business or tax paying entity that is not a final consumer) will need to provide us with a tax invoice for the value of the RECs plus GST prior to the installation taking place. This will allow us to subtract the value of the RECs from the point of sale amount of the system.

If you're interested in installing solar power at your home - view our current specials and contact our team as soon as possible on 1300 727 151.

Have you tried our solar power instant online quoting system yet? By entering a few details, you can design your dream grid connect solar power system and have a full estimate emailed to you automatically! 

Can I install the panels myself to get the full solar credits value?

No. The Office of the Renewable Energy Regulator have made it a requirement  that only CEC accredited installers can sign-off on Solar Credits.

Does the solar credit program also apply to wind power?

Yes it does - the same guidelines will apply for wind turbine installations - even for micro-hydro systems!

What about caravans, boats, sheds, motorhomes and RV's?

As long as the caravan, boat, shed or RV has an address and is your principle place of residence and has an address (such as a caravan park site or marina berth), it will be eligible under the solar credits scheme. 

How does the solar panel credits scheme work?

A Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) system is the basis of the solar credits program. 

A single REC is equivalent to one megawatt hour of electricity generation. Renewable Energy Certificates are currently issued with qualifying solar hot water, solar energy, wind power systems or solar panels and can be traded for cash. The value of a REC is dependent on market conditions.

How do I cash the REC credits?

Relax :) While the program may seem a little confusing, Energy Matters is here to make things super-easy for you!

While you can claim the cash value of the RECs yourself, that means you'll need to pay the full price of the solar power system  up front and then have the paperwork hassles, followed by the wait.

However, we can offer you a point of sale discount if you assign the credits to Energy Matters as we're a registered REC agent! We then take care of the rest, saving you a substantial amount in financial outlay and the bother of red tape. Additionally, we offer higher REC values than most, if not all, our competitors!

Learn more about the solar credits REC system - Try our new instant online quoting tool, contact us today toll free on 1300 727 151 or email our friendly team for expert, obligation-free advice.

Need more info or ready to order a system?

 Our new specials are very popular, so get in quick!

To ensure you can have your system installed sooner rather than later, here's what you need to do:

1. Check out solar specials or try our new instant online quoting tool
    

2. Call our friendly team on 1300 727 151 as soon as possible to beat the rush with any questions you might have .