Australia is renowned for its abundant sunshine, making it an ideal location for harnessing solar energy. To encourage the adoption of renewable energy, the Australian government and various state and territory governments offer substantial solar incentives and rebates. This guide will walk you through the steps to maximise savings by claiming these benefits.
Understanding solar rebates and incentives
Before diving into the steps, it’s crucial to grasp Australia’s different types of solar incentives.
Solar tax credits
While no longer applicable for new installations, understanding this scheme provides historical context. Formerly, solar tax credits offered significant reductions in taxable income for individuals and businesses installing solar systems.
State-based solar rebates
State-based programs are the heart of current solar incentives. These rebates vary considerably across states and territories. Some examples include:
- Victoria: Solar Homes Program offers rebates for solar systems and battery storage.
- New South Wales: Feed-in tariffs and rebates for eligible households.
Finding the right solar incentives
Your location, system size, and property type will determine the specific incentives you qualify for. Check our pages for the most up-to-date information and applicable rebates.
Other solar incentives
Beyond state-based rebates, additional solar incentives might be available, such as:
- Federal government grants: While less common, the federal government occasionally grants solar projects.
- Local council rebates: Some local councils offer solar incentives to promote solar adoption within their communities.
Step-by-step guide to claiming solar rebates
By following these steps and staying informed, you can significantly reduce the upfront costs of your solar system and enjoy long-term savings on your electricity bills.
1. Research available solar incentives
- Check state and territory programs: Different jurisdictions offer varying solar incentives. Research thoroughly to identify all potential rebates and credits.
- Understand eligibility criteria: Each program has specific requirements, such as property type, system size, and income limits. Ensure you meet the criteria to avoid disappointment.
- Consider federal incentives: Federal incentives might also be available in addition to state-based programs. Explore these options as well.
- Local council incentives: Some local councils may offer additional incentives or support programs for solar installations.
2. Choose and engage a reputable solar installer
- Verify credentials: Select a licensed and experienced solar installer with a strong reputation.
- Check for certifications: Look for installers with relevant certifications to ensure quality workmanship and compliance with industry standards.
- Warranties: Ensure that the installer offers comprehensive warranties on the solar system and installation.
- Obtain multiple solar quotes: Compare solar quotes from different installers to find the best deal and identify any potential hidden costs.
Energy Matters is the leading supplier of solar quotes in Australia due to its vast partnership network of high-quality installers.
3. Choose the right solar system
- System size: Based on your energy consumption and roof space, determine the optimal size of your solar system. Oversizing or undersizing can impact your rebate eligibility and system performance.
- System quality: Invest in high-quality solar panels and inverters to ensure long-term efficiency and reliability. Some solar incentives may require specific product certifications.
- Battery storage: Consider adding battery storage to your system. While not always eligible for the same rebates as solar panels, batteries can increase your self-consumption and potential savings.
Use Energy Matters’ easy-to-use solar power and battery storage calculator to determine the size of your solar system with storage! Our solar calculator will generate performance information and potential savings.
We can send this information to 3 of our pre-vetted and trusted local installers in your area to receive obligation-free solar quotes.
Embrace the energy efficiency revolution by upgrading your solar systems and adding a battery, solar inverters + more with Energy Matters.
4. System design and sizing
- Assess energy consumption: Analyses your electricity usage patterns to determine the optimal system size.
- Consider future needs: Factor in potential increases in energy consumption, such as adding electric vehicles or appliances.
- Roof orientation and shading: Optimise system performance by considering your roof’s orientation and any shading factors.
5. Prepare and complete the necessary documentation
- Gather personal information: Collect details about your property, including address, ownership, and energy bills.
- Accuracy: Double-check all information to avoid delays or errors in rebate-claiming.
- Financial records: Prepare tax returns or other financial documents as the rebate program requires.
- Deadlines: Adhere to the application deadlines for solar rebates to ensure you get all the benefits.
- Obtain solar quotes: Keep copies of solar quotes from different installers for comparison and reference.
Embrace the energy efficiency revolution by upgrading your solar systems and adding a battery, solar inverters + more with Energy Matters.
6. Apply for solar rebates
- Complete application forms: Accurately fill out all required information on the rebate application forms.
- Submit supporting documents: Provide the necessary documentation, such as invoices, permits, and system specifications, to support your claim.
- Meet deadlines: Adhere to application deadlines to ensure you get all the valuable solar incentives.
7. Monitor installation and completion
- Supervise solar installation: Ensure the installer adheres to the agreed-upon plans and meets quality standards.
- Inspect system performance: Verify that the installed system operates efficiently and generates the expected electricity output.
- Obtain final documentation: Collect all necessary paperwork, including the Certificate of Compliance and other required documents.
- Feed-in tariffs: If applicable, understand the terms and conditions of your feed-in tariff agreement.
8. Claim your rebates
- Submit required paperwork: Provide the rebate program with the completed application and supporting documentation.
- Follow up: If necessary, contact the rebate program to inquire about the status of your claim.
- Receive solar rebate payment: Once approved, you will receive the solar rebate amount as a direct payment or a tax credit.
Additional tips
- Explore financing options: If upfront costs are a concern, explore financing options such as solar loans or leasing arrangements.
- Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with changes in solar incentives and policies by subscribing to relevant newsletters or following industry news.
- Take advantage of energy efficiency measures: Improving your home’s energy efficiency can complement your solar system and enhance overall savings.
- Consider solar hot water: Installing solar hot water systems can complement your solar power system and reduce energy bills.
You can install a heat pump hot water system as an alternative to a conventional solar hot water system consisting of solar panels, a collector tank mounted on a roof spring, and solar hot water. Well planned and built, a heat pump system can yield a very rapid return on investment.
By following these steps and staying informed about available solar rebates, you can significantly reduce the cost of your solar investment and enjoy the long-term benefits of clean, renewable energy. Consult a qualified solar expert to tailor your approach to your specific circumstances and location.
Going solar
Are you looking to save money on your electricity bills and reduce your carbon footprint? Solar energy is the perfect solution! Energy Matters is the leading supplier of solar quotes in Australia due to its vast partnership network of high-quality installers. With Energy Matters, you can be sure you’re getting the best possible deal on solar energy.
Energy Matters helps Australian home and business owners receive personalised solar quotes through our large network of high-quality solar installers. With Energy Matters, you can be sure you’re getting the best possible deal on solar energy. We only work with reputable solar installers with a proven track record of delivering high-quality solar systems.
