Changes to rebate for solar batteries from 1 May

From 1 May 2026, amendments to the Renewable Energy (Electricity) Regulations 2001 will start.

This includes adjustments to the number of small-scale technology certificates (STCs) solar batteries are eligible for under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme. This is to ensure the discount remains at around 30% for small, medium and large battery systems and aligns with falling battery costs over time.

The STC factor determines the number of STCs a system is entitled to create per kWh of useable capacity. It will be adjusted to decline:

• more frequently (every 6 months)
• at a higher rate.

The STC factor will also taper according to the amount of capacity installed:

• From 0 kWh up to 14 kWh (inclusive): STC factor applied at 100%.
• Every kWh greater than 14 and up to 28 kWh (inclusive): STC factor applied at 60%.
• Every kWh greater than 28 and up to 50 kWh (inclusive): STC factor applied at 15%.

Use our solar battery STC calculator to estimate the number of STCs a solar battery installation may be eligible for, based on the current STC factor and future adjustments.