Where solar sits relative to the meter does not decide eligibility. What decides it is size, accreditation and measurement. A factory rooftop behind the meter can create certificates just like a grid-connected farm, but the scheme it uses depends on its capacity and date.
The size rules at 2026
| System size | Certificate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 100 kW | STCs | Deemed up front, deeming period 5 years for 2026 installs |
| Above 100 kW, up to 1 MW | STCs from 1 Oct 2026 | Fixed five-year deeming period; CER says applications open mid to late November 2026 |
| Above 1 MW | LGCs | Accredited power station, metered generation |
The mid-scale STC pathway is explained on mid-scale solar STCs. Below 100 kW nothing changes.
How behind-the-meter LGCs work
An accredited power station creates LGCs for all eligible electricity it generates above its baseline, whether the energy goes to the site load or to the grid. That means the metering has to capture total generation, not just exports. See metering requirements. The owner needs accreditation, and certificates are then created in the registry.
Who owns the certificates
If a third party owns the system and sells power to the site host under a PPA or lease, the LGCs belong to whoever the contract says. The site host cannot claim renewable electricity unless the certificates are transferred and retired for them: see PPA and LGC retirement.
Is it worth it?
LGCs are oversupplied in 2026, roughly $6 to $9 in September after a near-$4 low in February, so for most behind-the-meter projects the value is in the bill savings, with LGCs as modest extra revenue. A 1 MW-plus system should model LGCs conservatively. For mid-size projects the STC discount at installation can be a bigger and more certain benefit.
What this means for installers and owners
Confirm the size, install date and meter arrangement at quote stage, and tell the customer which certificate applies. For choices around 100 kW see LGC or STC for a 100 kW system and commercial solar over 100 kW. If you are claiming STCs, see how it works and pricing.