How Australian Government Solar Rebates Work in Western Australia: A Complete Guide

As the world shifts toward renewable energy, Australia is making significant strides to encourage its citizens to invest in solar power. One of the key incentives for Australians looking to make the switch to solar energy is the government solar rebate. In Western Australia, this initiative is particularly appealing due to the state’s abundant sunshine and the increasing affordability of solar power systems. But how exactly do these rebates work, and how can you take advantage of them? This blog will walk you through everything you need to know about government solar rebates in Western Australia.

What Are Solar Rebates?

Solar rebates are financial incentives designed to make the installation of solar
power systems more affordable for households and businesses. The Australian Government and state governments, including Western Australia, provide rebates and incentives to promote the use of clean, renewable energy sources. These rebates significantly reduce the upfront cost of purchasing and installing a solar energy system which make solar power more accessible to homeowners.

1. The Federal Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES)

The Federal Government’s Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) is one of the most significant rebates available for homeowners and businesses in Western Australia. The SRES is part of the Renewable Energy Target (RET) program, which aims to reduce Australia’s carbon emissions and promote renewable energy. It is slowly decreasing at the start of each year as we head towards it 2030 planned end date for the rebate. Under the SRES, you receive a Small-Scale Technology Certificate (STC) for every kilowatt of solar energy your system is expected to produce over its lifetime. The number of STCs you are eligible for depends on factors like:

• The size of the solar system you are installing (measured in kilowatts, or kW).
• The location of your home (the amount of sunlight your location receives).
• The installation date of the system.

These certificates can be sold to energy companies, which are required to purchase them in order to meet their renewable energy obligations. The money you earn from selling these certificates can be used to offset the cost of your solar installation, making the system more affordable.

How the STC Rebate Works

• System Size: For example, if you're installing a 6kW solar system, the
  number of STCs you'll be eligible for will depend on how many certificates are associated with that system size in your area. The larger the system, the more certificates you'll receive.
• Selling STCs: Solar retailers usually handle the process of applying for and
  selling STCs on your behalf, which means you don’t need to deal with the paperwork or the sale process. Instead, they’ll apply the rebate value directly to the total cost of your installation.

The amount you receive for your STCs depends on the market price, but on
average, the rebate could reduce the cost of a solar system by several thousand
dollars.

2. How to Apply for Solar Rebates in Western Australia

Applying for government solar rebates in WA is relatively straightforward. However, there are several key steps you need to follow:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria rebates. This may include the size of the solar system you wish to install.

Step 2: Get a Solar Quote

Reach out to Eclipse Energy Solutions and we can assess your home’s energy
needs, recommend a suitable solar system size, and provide you with a quote. We will also help you calculate how many STCs you’re eligible for and will complete all the paper work and claim for you, so you are only left paying the gap!

Step 3: Install Your Solar System

Once you’ve received the quote and approved the installation, we will carry out the work.

Step 4: Submit the Rebate Application

Once your system is installed, we will take care of the paperwork for the SRES
rebate.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Savings

After the rebate is applied, you’ll see a significant reduction in the upfront cost of
your solar system. You’ll also start enjoying lower electricity bills as you begin
generating your own clean energy.

3. Is Solar Worth It in Western Australia?

Absolutely! Western Australia is one of the sunniest states in Australia, making it an ideal location for solar energy. With rising electricity prices, investing in solar panels can not only help reduce your bills but also increase the value of your home. Plus, with government rebates and incentives, going solar has never been more affordable.

Final Thoughts

Government solar rebates in Western Australia are designed to help homeowners transition to renewable energy, reduce their electricity costs, and contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions. By taking advantage of federal rebates, you can lower the upfront cost of your solar power system, making it easier and more affordable to enjoy the benefits of solar energy.

If you’re considering going solar, now is a great time to take action, as government incentives continue to make solar energy more accessible to all.