Sydney and NSW Solar Rebate
The Rebate in NSW & Sydney
Solar power is a smart investment for New South Wales homes and businesses. Beyond the continuous declining costs of solar technology, federal solar incentives provided by the Australian government, along with attractive feed-in tariffs from electricity retailers, have significantly improved the affordability of solar systems in recent years.
With the NSW government setting ambitious targets to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, solar energy stands out as a critical player in achieving this goal. To further encourage more Australians to take the green energy route, the state offers a number of financial incentives, including solar panel and battery rebates, as well as rebate swaps.
What is the Solar Panel Rebate in NSW?
First, let us clarify what a rebate is: it’s essentially a discount or partial refund given to the customer after a purchase. When it comes to solar, a solar panel rebate is technically a financial incentive and part of the federal government’s Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). The SRES scheme is for those who install solar and other eligible renewable energy systems.
In New South Wales, homeowners across the state can benefit from a solar panel rebate, which comes in the form of Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). To be eligible, they must meet the requirements, which include the installation of a solar system smaller than 100kW in size and with a Clean Energy Council-approved inverter and panels installed within 12 months upon STC application.
The rebate amount depends on the system, but it can be as substantial as $2,000 or higher, which will be provided upfront.
How Does the NSW Rebate Swap Offer Work?
If you’re planning to install solar in the near future, you might qualify for a three-kilowatt solar system for free. Yes, you read that correctly. You could potentially have the entire cost covered if you’re eligible to “swap your rebate.” As the name suggests, this scheme allows you to swap your rebate designed for residential or social housing solar.
This “solar for low income households offer” requires homeowners to be current recipients of the Low Income Household Rebate. This offer is only available in select regions, including the Central Coast, North Coast, and Sydney (South). For a complete list of the requirements, please head to the official website.
With this incentive, low-income households can afford clean energy, letting them save up to $600 in electricity bills per year. Before applying for the rebate swap offer, make sure you understand the conditions, which include forgoing the Low Income Household Rebate for a period of 10 years.
How to Apply for a Sydney Rebate Swap Offer?
Before applying for a Sydney or NSW rebate swap offer, you must familiarise yourself with the criteria for the said incentive. Complete the eligibility requirements, including receiving the Low Income Household Rebate with a DVA card.
It’s important to understand that the rebate swap for solar is exclusively available to homeowners in NSW who are residents of the property. You are ineligible for the offer if you have already installed solar prior to submitting your application.
Once you have confirmed your eligibility, you can apply online by following this link. You will be directed to a page where you will need to fill out the application form. Note that the application requires you to upload a photo of your DVA Gold Card or Pensioner Concession Card, as well as your most recent electricity bill. The documentation will be used to confirm your Low Income Household Rebate status.
How Does the NSW Rebate Swap Offer Work?
If you’re planning to install solar in the near future, you might qualify for a three-kilowatt solar system for free. Yes, you read that correctly. You could potentially have the entire cost covered if you’re eligible to “swap your rebate.” As the name suggests, this scheme allows you to swap your rebate designed for residential or social housing solar.
This “solar for low income households offer” requires homeowners to be current recipients of the Low Income Household Rebate. This offer is only available in select regions, including the Central Coast, North Coast, and Sydney (South). For a complete list of the requirements, please head to the official website.
With this incentive, low-income households can afford clean energy, letting them save up to $600 in electricity bills per year. Before applying for the rebate swap offer, make sure you understand the conditions, which include forgoing the Low Income Household Rebate for a period of 10 years.
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NSW Solar Rebate FAQs
Who is eligible for the Rebate swap offer?
All New South Wales homeowners are eligible to participate in the state's Rebate swap program. However, a few requirements should be met, including living in a house you currently own that does not have a solar PV system installed during the application.
A crucial eligibility criterion is that you must be a recipient of the Low Income Household Rebate with a valid Pensioner Concession Card or a Department of Veterans Affairs Gold Card. If approved, your Low Income Household Rebate will be put on hold for the next 10 years.
How does the Rebate swap help low-income households?
The Rebate swap offer is specifically designed for those who receive the NSW Low Income Household Rebate, a program focusing on helping concession card holders pay their electricity bills. The initiative provides a rebate of $285 per retail household each financial year. However, with the Rebate swap, an eligible home can double their savings, potentially up to $600 yearly.
Does the Rebate swap offer cover solar batteries?
Unfortunately, the rebate swap does not include solar battery purchases. However, NSW residents can access an interest-free loan through the Empowering Homes Program. Eligible households must have an income of up to $180,000 to qualify for loans of up to $9,000 for a battery system or $14,000 for a solar battery system.
What if I need a larger solar system for my home?
The Rebate swap assists low-income households in reducing their electricity expenses with a solar system. It allows eligible Low Income Household Rebate recipients to get a three-kilowatt solar system without paying for it. You can opt for a bigger-capacity system if your energy consumption is higher. You can still be eligible for the program with the increased size of up to six kilowatts. However, the government will not pay the difference between the 3kW system and your larger system.
Can renters apply?
The Rebate swap offer is only available to NSW homeowners. If you are a renter, you cannot apply for this offer. However, other incentives provided by the state will allow you to save on your solar installation and purchase. That's because the government has a goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. An example is the National Energy Bill Relief, which gives renters a one-off $500 relief for their electricity bill.
How can I apply for the Rebate swap?
Before you apply, make sure that you meet the requirements, including being a concession card holder, which is essential as you have to provide an image of your card. You must also complete the consent forms, as your house will be assessed as part of the process. Finally, you have to get your solar system installed. In some instances, you will be required to install a smart metre.
Who is responsible for repairs and maintenance of my solar system?
The Rebate swap only covers solar system installation; therefore, you are entirely responsible for the system's upkeep. That includes cleaning, fault repairs, parts replacement, and ongoing maintenance. Not to worry, though, as reliable installers, such as Aus Energy Solar, offer an extended warranty period, usually 10 years, which will help you save on the costs if there are ever problems with the system.
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Going green, especially with electricity, is often easier said than done. The process can be complex, but not when you have experienced professionals who are always ready to serve. Aus Energy Solar can help make your transition from traditional to clean, green energy. Start your journey right away by contacting our friendly team today!