The last few weeks has seen so many changes to rebates and incentives systems for solar power in Australia, many consumers and for that matter, providers, are confused as to the current situation. The following is a brief summary of where things stand as at Monday, June 29 2009:
Solar hot water rebates
Solar hot water rebates throughout Australia remain unchanged. Federal government rebates of up to $1600 are available to install solar and heat pump hot water systems. Additional funding may be accessed through various state schemes and Renewable Energy Certificates also continue to accompany qualifying systems. Read more about solar hot water rebates.
Grid connect solar power
The Solar Credits scheme offers up to $9,000 in rebates to homes, businesses and community groups that install a solar power system. Unlike the previous rebate, it is not means-tested.
The Solar Credits scheme is part of the Renewable Energy Target bill, legislation that has been deferred until August 2009 at this point; however, it is expected to pass during the week commencing August 11.
Given the installation backlog of the previous rebate, some consumers are starting the process of ordering a system now with view to an August or later installation date. Read more about the Solar Credits scheme.
Off grid solar power
Small scale installations by households, businesses and community groups (except in Western Australia, which is still covered by RRPGP funding) completed on or after 9 June 2009 may receive up to $9,000 in rebates for the first 1.5 kilowatts of the system under the Solar Credits program.
Solar feed in tariffs
A feed in tariff is a premium amount paid to grid connected solar power system owners for the electricity they generate. Feed in tariff schemes are active in South Australia, the Australian Capital Territory, parts of the Northern Territory, Tasmania and Queensland; with programs in New South Wales, Western Australia and Victoria to commence soon. Read more about feed in tariffs.
Business specific incentives
Businesses large and small are covered under the Solar Credits scheme and feed in tariffs, but can also claim a tax deduction of up to 50% under the Small Business and General Business Tax Break legislation. Read more about business solar incentives.
Renewable energy certificates
RECs, otherwise known as Renewable Energy Certificates, are a form of currency and are available when purchasing qualifying renewable energy equipment. RECs also form the basis of the Solar Credits scheme, which is a Renewable Energy Certificate multiplier system. While buying a solar panel on its own rather than as part of a system will not qualify for the Solar Credits program, it will still attract the normal number of RECs. Read more about Renewable Energy Certificates.
