Creating your own certificates is possible, and some installers do it. It is also a bit more regulated than the forum threads make it sound. Here is the process in the order you would meet it.
Step 1: get the right account
Open a REC Registry account through the Clean Energy Regulator. A registered person account lets you create STCs for systems you own. To create them for customers’ systems you need to act as a registered agent, which has a larger one-off fee, about $230 at the time of writing. See what registering costs and what the REC Registry is.
Step 2: secure the right to create
The system owner holds the right to create STCs. They assign it to you on an assignment form (or you act as the owner). The form needs the correct parties, system details and signatures. A badly filled form is among the top causes of rejection. See the STC assignment form.
Step 3: gather evidence
Photos, serial numbers, the installation date, accreditation numbers and product approvals must meet the CER’s rules. For batteries, add VPP capability and new photo rules in force since 1 March 2026. See STC photo requirements and the battery submission guide.
Step 4: create the STCs
Enter the system details, deeming period and zone, and declare. The number must match the formula (kW x zone rating x deeming years for solar). See the formula.
Step 5: validation and sale
The CER validates the claim, usually quickly, though some are held for audit. Then you sell: to a trader on agreed terms, or to the clearing house at $40, excluding GST. You must also handle the buyer’s invoice. See RCTI, GST and ABN.
Where self-registration goes wrong
Missing photos, mismatched serials, expired accreditation, an ineligible product and wrong installation type. The CER can invalidate certificates months later, and the cost lands on you. See top rejection reasons.
What this means for installers
Self-registering is a business function, not a favour to yourself. Decide with the numbers in should I self-register or use a trader. If you would rather assign and get on with the next install, see how it works, start trading, or the STC trading pillar.
Keeping records
Whichever route you take, keep each job file: assignment form, photos, serial numbers, CEC product details, accreditation and the registry reference. Audits can look back, and a tidy folder per job is the cheapest protection you have.
Choosing the buyer
Before creating anything, line up a buyer in writing: rate, lock, settlement time and who issues the invoice. Holding certificates with no buyer exposes you to price moves and tied-up cash.