There are two kinds of “solar rebate” in Australia, and they are claimed differently. The federal one is a discount delivered through STCs. State ones are separate programs with their own forms. The step-by-step flow for the federal side is in solar rebate: how to claim it. Here the focus is on the national picture and the choices you have.
Route 1: assign to your installer (the normal route)
You choose an accredited installer, sign an assignment form, and the discount appears on your invoice. The installer creates the STCs in the Clean Energy Regulator’s registry and sells them. It is the simplest route, and almost everyone uses it. Eligibility is in do I qualify for the solar rebate.
Route 2: keep the STCs and claim them yourself
You pay full price, then create and sell the certificates yourself or via a registered agent. It is possible, but it needs a registry account, complete evidence and a buyer. See can I keep my STCs.
State and territory incentives
States run separate schemes, and the details change. Some are rebates, some are interest-free loans, some are certificate schemes such as Victorian Energy Upgrades or the NSW Energy Savings Scheme. Eligibility, income caps and deadlines vary. Solar Victoria’s household income cap fell to $150,000 on 1 July 2026, as one example. Check the official page of your state agency before you plan around one, and ask your installer which ones they handle.
Timing matters
The deeming period drops each 1 January. A system installed in 2026 earns STCs on five years, in 2027 on four. A delay of a few weeks across the new year can cost you hundreds of dollars. See what changes in January.
From the desk: make sure the contract says who carries the risk if the STC claim is rejected, and that the discount is fixed in your price at signing, not adjusted later.
If something goes wrong
If a claim is rejected or delayed, your installer should explain why and fix it. If they cannot, or the business has closed, contact your state fair trading office, and keep every document you signed. Your assignment form and invoice are the evidence of what was agreed, and they make any follow-up much simpler.
What this means for you
For a normal household purchase, there is nothing to apply for. Pick a good installer, check the form and read the contract. If you are curious about the system behind the discount, the resources hub and STC trading show how certificates are turned into cash.