The STC scheme is real, legislated and run by the Clean Energy Regulator. The word “scam” shows up in searches because people get burned by sales tactics layered on top of it. Understanding the difference protects you.
What is genuine
You really can get a discount of roughly $1,700 to $1,800 on a typical 6.6 kW system at current STC prices, and it really is delivered by assigning your certificates to your installer. Nothing about that is a trick. The explainer on how the rebate works lays out the mechanism.
Red flags to watch for
- “Free solar” or “government-funded.” The government does not pay for your system. A free offer typically means a financed arrangement, so ask what you are paying and over how long.
- Pressure to sign today because the “rebate ends tomorrow”. The scheme steps down each 1 January and ends on 31 December 2030. There is no daily cliff.
- A discount far above the market value. If a salesperson says your STCs are worth $60 each, they are not. At the time of writing the price is roughly $38 to $40, with a $40 ceiling.
- Unaccredited installers. Only accredited installers can create STCs for you. Check them against Solar Accreditation Australia’s register.
- A blank or rushed assignment form. See what assigning STCs means.
- Cold calls claiming to be from a government agency. They are not.
Quick checks before you sign
Get the STC count and the value per certificate in writing. Check the numbers against a calculator, ask for the installer’s accreditation details, and keep a copy of every form you sign. Read the contract for what happens if the claim is rejected.
From the desk: a genuine installer is comfortable showing you the STC count. A defensive one is a warning. If the maths is hidden, walk away.
What this means for you
Take your time. The scheme gives you a real discount, so you do not need to rush or accept a vague deal. The resources hub and our STC trading overview explain the system from the installer side, which helps you spot a bad quote.