South Australia Solar Rebate

Are you thinking about joining the many South Australian homeowners who are benefiting from solar power?

If you live in Adelaide or elsewhere in South Australia, there are specific rebates and incentives available to make solar power more accessible and affordable for homes and businesses.

As the costs of solar technology continue to drop and with attractive financial incentives offered by both the South Australian and Australian governments, now is an ideal time to consider investing in solar energy.

We’ve put together this guide on South Australia and Adelaide Solar Rebates to assist you in understanding and taking advantage of these financial benefits.

What Is the Solar Rebate in South Australia?

The South Australia Solar Rebate is a government-supported initiative aimed at encouraging the adoption of solar energy in both residential and commercial properties across South Australia, including Adelaide. This rebate aims to reduce the initial expenses linked with buying and setting up solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.

Through making solar power more economical, this scheme contributes to South Australia’s environmental objectives, such as cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions and fostering sustainable energy usage.

adelaide city centre
solar rebate adelaide

How Does the SA Solar Rebate Work?

The Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme, also known as the federal government solar rebate, is a nationwide initiative encouraging individuals, families, and small businesses to adopt small-scale renewable energy systems such as household solar panels.

This scheme provides rebates in the form of Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). When you purchase a solar system, you receive a certain number of STCs based on factors like system size and location.

STCs function as a form of currency, representing the anticipated energy generation of your solar system until 2030. The more renewable energy your system is expected to produce, the greater the number of STCs you’ll receive.

The total value of these certificates translates into the rebate you’ll receive for your solar panels, reducing your installation costs accordingly.

Am I Eligible for the SA Solar Rebate?

To determine if you’re eligible for the South Australia Solar Rebate, you’ll need to consider several factors:

  • Residency: You must be a resident of South Australia, including Adelaide.

  • Property Ownership: Typically, you need to own the property where you plan to install the solar PV system.

  • System Size: There may be restrictions or requirements regarding the size of the solar PV system you intend to install.

  • Accredited Installers: The installation must be performed by accredited installers to qualify for the rebate.

  • Compliance: Your installation must comply with relevant regulations and standards.

To confirm your eligibility and understand any specific requirements, it’s best to check with the relevant government authorities or approved service providers overseeing the South Australia Solar Rebate scheme. They can provide detailed information and guide you through the application process.

solar panels on a roof in adelaide
city of brisbane at night

Solar Feed-in Tariffs in SA

A solar feed-in tariff (FiT) is a payment you receive for excess energy your solar system exports to the grid. In South Australia, electricity retailers set the rates, with some offering competitive rates without a minimum set by the state government. The table below displays the best feed-in tariff rates from popular retailers in South Australia as of January 2024.

To access these tariffs, you need a grid-connected solar system, and conditions may vary among providers, such as eligibility tied to purchasing solar panels through them. Tariffs are credited on your electricity bills.

The minimum FiT rate ranges from 3.5C-8.5C & the maximum FiT rate ranges from 3.5c-20c, depending on your  provider.

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South Australia Solar Rebate FAQs

How much can I save with the solar rebate in Adelaide?

The savings from the solar rebate can vary based on the size of the solar system and the current STC market price. The Small-scale Technology Certificate (STC) scheme provides a substantial financial incentive, and the number of STCs you receive is based on the size of your solar system and the amount of renewable energy it is expected to generate. On average, homeowners in Adelaide can save several thousand dollars on the upfront cost of a solar installation. For example, a typical 6.6 kW solar system might save around $3,000 to $4,000 through the rebate. It's important to get a detailed quote from your solar provider to understand your specific savings.

How do I apply for the solar rebate in South Australia?

The application process for the solar rebate is typically handled by your solar installer. When you choose a reputable installer, they will manage the entire process for you. This includes creating and registering the STCs, which represent the amount of renewable energy your system is expected to generate. Once registered, these certificates can be sold or traded, and the rebate is usually applied as an upfront discount on the overall cost of your solar system. This means you won't have to pay the full price initially and wait for a rebate; the discount is applied immediately.

How long will the solar rebate scheme be available?

The solar rebate scheme is part of a federal government program known as the Renewable Energy Target (RET), which is designed to encourage the uptake of renewable energy in Australia. The value of the STCs is gradually reducing each year until the program ends in 2030. This gradual reduction means that the financial benefit of the rebate will decrease over time. Therefore, it's advisable to install your solar system sooner rather than later to maximise your rebate benefits. By acting now, you can take advantage of the higher rebate amounts and start saving on your energy bills sooner.

Can businesses in South Australia also benefit from the solar rebate?

Yes, both residential and commercial properties are eligible for the solar rebate. Businesses can significantly reduce their energy costs by installing solar panels and benefiting from the STC scheme. For commercial installations, the financial incentives can be even more substantial due to the larger system sizes typically required by businesses. Additionally, businesses may also benefit from other financial incentives such as tax incentives and accelerated depreciation under the government's instant asset write-off scheme. Installing solar panels can also improve a business's sustainability profile, which can be an attractive feature for environmentally-conscious customers and partners.

What are the environmental benefits of installing solar panels in South Australia?

Installing solar panels has numerous environmental benefits. By generating electricity from the sun, you reduce reliance on fossil fuels, which are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. This helps to decrease your carbon footprint and combat climate change. In South Australia, where there is a strong focus on renewable energy, solar installations contribute to the state's leadership in sustainability. Solar energy is a clean, renewable resource that does not produce air pollution or greenhouse gases when generating electricity. Additionally, increasing the amount of renewable energy in the grid helps to reduce the need for coal and gas power plants, further decreasing environmental impact. Solar panels also reduce the strain on the electricity grid during peak usage times, promoting a more stable and reliable energy system.

Get a Quote For Solar In SA

Transitioning to renewable energy in South Australia, including Adelaide, might seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With the support of experienced professionals like Aus Energy Solar, the process can be straightforward. Take the step towards clean, sustainable energy today by reaching out to our friendly local team!

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