Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES)
The Australian Government’s Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme helps reduce the upfront cost of eligible renewable energy technologies, making it easier for households and businesses to invest in cleaner energy.
About
What is the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme?
The Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) is an Australian Government initiative that encourages the installation of eligible small-scale renewable energy systems.
The scheme provides a financial incentive through certificates associated with eligible installations. For many customers, the value of these certificates can help reduce the upfront cost of a new system.
What are Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs)?
The SRES operates through tradable certificates known as Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs).
STCs may be created for eligible installations under the scheme rules. The number of certificates depends on factors such as the type and size of the system, its location and the applicable calculation method.
STCs have a market value. Customers commonly assign the right to create their certificates to a registered agent in exchange for an upfront discount on the eligible installation.
What does this mean for you?
You generally don’t need to trade certificates yourself. When an installer or registered agent offers an STC discount, the value is reflected in your quote, reducing the amount you pay upfront.
Requirements
How does the SRES work?
The process for customers generally involves:
Check your eligibility
Find out whether your property and proposed system meet the relevant scheme requirements.
Choose an upgrade
Select a suitable renewable energy or other eligible technology with a participating provider.
Receive a quote
Your quote may include an upfront discount reflecting the value of applicable STCs.
Complete installation
An appropriately qualified installer completes the work and the required documentation is processed.
eligibility
What upgrades may be eligible?
The SRES supports specified small-scale technologies, subject to current scheme rules and technical requirements.
Rooftop solar panels
Eligible small-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) systems can generate renewable electricity for your home or business and may qualify for STC incentives.
Heat pump and solar water systems
Eligible heat pump and solar water heaters can receive STC incentives, helping reduce the upfront cost of efficient hot water technology.
Home battery systems
Eligible battery installations may receive support under the Australian Government’s Cheaper Home Batteries Program, which operates through the SRES and uses STCs. Battery-specific eligibility requirements apply.
Important: Not every product or installation qualifies. Incentives depend on the current rules, approved equipment, installation requirements and other conditions.
Who is eligible?
Australian households and businesses installing eligible small-scale technologies may qualify for SRES incentives.
Eligibility depends on factors including the type of system, approved equipment, installation standards, location and any program-specific conditions. A participating provider can confirm the requirements for your proposed installation.
How Creditex can help
Creditex works with government energy incentive schemes to help customers explore renewable energy upgrades and potential financial incentives.
We can help you understand the options available for your property and how eligible incentives may reduce upfront installation costs.
answers
Frequently asked questions
STCs are tradable certificates created for eligible installations under the SRES. Their financial value can be passed on to customers through an upfront discount.
Many customers receive an STC-related discount through their installer or registered agent. Your provider will explain the relevant paperwork and how the incentive is applied to your quote.
They may both receive support through the SRES, but solar PV and battery installations have different eligibility requirements and certificate calculations. Battery incentives are delivered through the Cheaper Home Batteries Program within the SRES.
Additional incentives may be available depending on your location, system and the rules of each program. Your provider can help identify whether multiple incentives can be applied.
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Related government schemes
Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS)
Learn about incentives for reducing peak electricity demand.
Learn more →
Energy Savings Scheme (ESS)
Learn about incentives for eligible energy-efficient upgrades.
Learn more →
FOR NSW RESIDENTS
Check what energy rebates you could be eligible for
Live in NSW? You may be eligible for government incentives that help reduce the cost of solar, batteries and other energy-efficient upgrades. Explore your options with Creditex.