In recent years, there has been a growing trend in Australia towards adopting renewable energy sources, especially solar energy. In Victoria, the state government has introduced a range of incentives to encourage businesses to adopt solar energy and reduce their carbon footprint. These incentives include solar rebates, subsidies, and renewable energy certificates or solar credits.
As Australia’s trend towards solar energy adoption strengthens, exploring incentives becomes pivotal. Energy Matters provides a practical avenue for businesses in Victoria considering the shift.
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State-wide subsidy program for small businesses' solar electricity
Federal and state authorities have offered incentives for companies that allow commercial solar energy to be installed. The benefits of commercial solar installations are increasing in solar for businesses in Victoria thanks to the attractive rebates available to them. Commercial solar rebate in Victoria helps businesses see returns on investment quicker by providing an additional revenue source.
Check out our page to learn more about each state’s commercial solar rebates, grants & incentives.
Commercial systems and small-scale technology certificates (STCs)
STCs are primarily offered for residential users.
Renewable energy systems with a minimum of 100 kW output can access federal incentives.
What are STCs and how can I access them for my commercial system?
Your system, solar power plant or hydro system, will receive a specific number STC.
Each STC represents one megawatt hour (MWh) of renewable energy generated or displaced. Depending on the anticipated MWh of energy generated within the deeming period (which now reduces each year and runs only until 2030 under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme), the number of STCs assigned will vary. For example, an installation expected to generate 100 MWh over its remaining deeming life to 2030 would be assigned 100 STCs.
All STCs are assigned a market value, which fluctuates but is currently trading at around $36–$40 per certificate in 2026 (with a cap of $40).
Commercial systems and Large-Scale Generation Certificates (LGCs)
As part of its Renewable Energy Target, the Australian government created Large Scale Generation Certificates (LGCs) (RET). A programme aims to lower electrical sector carbon emissions and promote sustainable and renewable energy sources.
Businesses can benefit from the Large Scale Renewable Energy Target (LRET) and Large Scale Generation Certificate if they are interested in installing large commercial solar systems with more than 100kW. (LGC). Businesses can purchase and sell renewable energy produced by massive solar power systems thanks to an LGC.
A solar energy system must be authorised before generating LGCs. The first requirement is that the system won’t be based on fossil fuels. The second is that the system must be larger than 100kW.
Check out our page to learn more about large-scale generation certificates.
Upgrading existing solar for Victorian small businesses
The Victorian government has also introduced many policies to support the growth of the solar energy sector. This includes the establishment of a Renewable Energy Target, which requires that a certain percentage of energy consumed in Victoria come from renewable sources. The government is also working to streamline obtaining permits and approvals for renewable energy projects, making it easier for businesses to install solar energy systems.
Check out our page to learn more about Victoria’s Increases Renewable Target to 95 per cent by 2035.
What kind of businesses benefit from commercial solar rebates and incentives in Victoria?
More savings for small business owners
Installation of solar panels in commercial buildings can also involve more money than expense. Solar power is a cost-saving technology that helps companies reduce their electricity bill. The State government offers significant solar energy savings to make installation easier and cheaper for smaller solar energy businesses. Since 2010 solar modules’ cost has fallen by 89%. In the wake of reducing solar panel costs, installing is more practical. Solar energy will also help you prevent the increase in energy costs for future events.
Huge savings on your power bills
Commercial solar PV systems are generally cost-effective in terms of energy savings. Solar panels are a good investment and will help you reduce your energy bills monthly and annually. The government’s solar rebate program allows companies to use heavily subsidised solar systems.
The Victorian government has taken significant steps to encourage businesses to adopt solar energy. These incentives and policies have helped to create a supportive environment for businesses that want to reduce their carbon footprint and invest in renewable energy. With the growing demand for renewable energy and the increasing availability of affordable solar energy systems, there has never been a better time for businesses in Victoria to invest in solar energy bills.
Read more about business rebates:
Electricity rebate in Melbourne and Victoria
Energy bill relief for small businesses
Under the Energy bill relief plan, the Commonwealth Government is partnering with states and territories to provide $3 billion in targeted electricity bill assistance to eligible Australian households and small businesses.
Businesses under the “small customers” category for electricity rebates whose annual energy consumption is less than 40 MWh are eligible for energy bill relief. Depending on when they get their electricity bill, eligible businesses will begin receiving this bill relief on or after July 1, 2023.
There is no action required by small businesses to get the electricity rebate in Melbourne and Victoria.
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The Commonwealth Government has announced a $1.8 billion extension to the Energy Bill Relief Fund for 2025-26. From 1 July 2025, Australian households and eligible small businesses may receive up to $150 in energy bill relief, which will be automatically applied to electricity bills in two quarterly instalments of $75 each. Most customers won’t need to do anything to receive the rebate.
This follows the existing $3.5 billion in energy bill relief provided during 2024–25, where households received up to $300 and eligible small businesses up to $325 off their energy bills.***
