There are two different questions inside the searches “is STC a scam”, “is the government solar rebate real” and “is the STC rebate legit”. One is about the scheme. The other is about the person selling to you.
The scheme is real
Small-scale technology certificates are created for eligible solar panels, batteries, solar water heaters and heat pumps under the federal Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme. The Clean Energy Regulator runs it. For rooftop solar, the number of certificates comes from system size, your zone and a deeming period that is 5 years for 2026 installs. At the time of writing STCs have been trading at roughly $38 to $40. See what an STC is worth in 2026.
How the rebate actually reaches you
It is not a cheque the government posts to you. Most households sign an assignment form, the installer or an agent creates the STCs and sells them, and the quote shows a lower price. That structure is why there is nothing for a stranger to “process” on your behalf. For the mechanics see STC discount on a solar quote explained.
Signs of a scam
- Someone contacts you first, claiming to be from the government, a “rebate department” or the regulator.
- You are told you must pay a fee, a tax or a “processing charge” to release a rebate.
- You are asked for bank details, myGov details or a card number.
- There is pressure to decide today before the rebate “closes”.
- The deal is described as free, with fine print about a lease, a finance contract or a roof agreement.
How scams arrive by phone, text, email and door knock is covered in solar rebate scams by phone, text, email and door knock. If you think you have been targeted, see how to report a solar scam.
Checking your own discount is legitimate
- Read the STC line. A proper quote shows the number of STCs and the dollar value credited. A vague “government rebate” with no figure should be questioned.
- Check the installer. Look up the installer’s accreditation, and confirm the business name and ABN match. See how to check an installer accreditation number.
- Match the form to the system. The assignment form should list your address, system size and the date. Keep a signed copy.
- Pay the invoiced amount only. There is no separate rebate fee.
- Ask about the audit trail. Legitimate installers can show photos, serial numbers and the registry claim.
What this means for you
The rebate is real and worth having. Your protection is to deal with an installer you found, not one who found you, and to read the STC line on the quote. Installers who want to run clean claims can see how we pre-check them at how it works and pricing. For related risks, see how to avoid STC fraud as a solar installer.