The New South Wales Solar Bonus Scheme was a government initiative to encourage solar power adoption among households and businesses. This scheme provided financial incentives to NSW residents who installed solar panels, making renewable energy more accessible and affordable.
While the program has ended, understanding its impact and exploring current NSW government solar rebate options can help homeowners and businesses maximise their solar investment.
On this page
What was the NSW Solar Bonus Scheme?
The NSW Solar Bonus Scheme was introduced in 2009 to incentivise solar panel installations through a feed-in tariff (FiT). Participants received payments for excess electricity exported to the grid, significantly lowering energy costs.
- Initially, the scheme offered early adopters a 60 cents per kWh tariff.
- In 2011, the rate was reduced to 20 cents per kWh due to high demand and budget constraints.
- The program officially ended on December 31, 2016, affecting thousands of participants.
Eligibility criteria of New South Wales Solar Bonus Scheme
To participate in the scheme, applicants had to meet specific requirements:
- System size: The installed solar PV system or wind turbine must have a capacity of up to 10kW.
- Electricity consumption: Eligible participants had an annual electricity consumption of up to 160 megawatt-hours (MWh).
These criteria ensured that the New South Wales Solar Bonus Scheme primarily benefited residential users and small businesses.
How did it benefit NSW residents?
The scheme played a crucial role in boosting solar adoption across the state. Some of the key benefits included:
- Lower electricity bills – Participants enjoyed reduced energy costs by returning excess solar power to the grid.
- Increased solar investments – The attractive FiT encouraged thousands of NSW homeowners to install solar systems.
- Sustainable energy growth – It contributed to the rise of renewable energy sources, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Why did the NSW Solar Bonus Scheme end?
The NSW government phased out the program due to sustainability concerns. The high feed-in tariffs led to financial strain, prompting the government to shift towards market-based FiTs. By the end of the scheme, NSW had over 146,000 households benefiting from solar incentives, highlighting its success in promoting renewable energy.
What are the current NSW government solar rebate options?
While the original NSW Solar Bonus Scheme has ended, the NSW government’s solar rebate landscape continues evolving. Homeowners can still benefit from various incentives aimed at promoting solar energy adoption. The federal government’s Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) provides Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), which can significantly reduce the upfront cost of solar installations.
- The SRES remains a key incentive, offering financial assistance through STCs.
- Various NSW retailers also offer their solar rebate programs.
- NSW based programs provide additional support.
- Retailer feed-in tariffs offer compensation for exported energy.
How to maximise your solar benefits in NSW
If you missed the NSW Solar Bonus Scheme, you can still use today’s NSW government solar rebate options. Here’s how:
- Assess your energy needs – Determine the right system size to maximise energy savings.
- Apply for government incentives – Check your eligibility for programs. Visit our New South Wales Rebates & Incentives page for further information.
- Compare NSW feed-in tariffs – Select an energy provider offering the NSW best feed-in tariff rates for exported solar power.
- Financing solar: Green loans and more – To make solar even more accessible, consider financing options such as green loans. These specialised loans provide favourable terms for environmentally friendly upgrades, including solar installations.
- Green loans offer competitive interest rates and flexible repayment options, making solar more affordable. For more detailed information, visit our website, the low interest guide, on green loans available in Australia.
- Assessing your needs – Determine your energy consumption and the solar system size required to meet your needs. For assistance in selecting the right solar package, refer to our choosing solar panels.
- Consider solar battery storage – Investing in a solar battery can help you store excess energy and increase energy independence.
- Use Energy Matters’ easy-to-use solar power and battery storage calculator to determine the size of your solar system with storage! Our solar calculator will generate performance information and potential savings. We can send this information to 3 of our pre-vetted and trusted local installers in your area to receive obligation-free solar quotes.
Ready to upgrade your solar systems and take your energy savings to the next level?
Embrace the energy efficiency revolution by upgrading your solar systems and adding a battery, solar inverters + more with Energy Matters. Energy Matters has been recognised for our continued excellence in the Australian solar industry. We provide our customers with high-quality resources, insight, and access to reputable solar quotes.
With Energy Matters’ 3 free solar quotes, you can compare plans from pre-qualified and vetted installers in your area and find the perfect solution for your home and business. Harness the sun’s power and save money on electricity bills while reducing environmental impact. Let Energy Matters guide you towards a brighter, more sustainable future.
