Switching to solar power on the Mid North Coast saves money. And with rising electricity costs, solar is becoming more and more attractive. However, the upfront cost can be challenging. The good news is that New South Wales offers excellent rebates and incentives to make it easier for homeowners to switch. At Great White Solar in Macksville, we help you understand and make the most of these options. So, here’s a simple guide to NSW solar rebates from which you can benefit.
What Are Solar Rebates?
Solar rebates cut the cost of installing solar panels. The main one in NSW comes from the federal Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), which provides Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). Each certificate represents the renewable energy your system will produce. You trade these for a substantial discount. You can see the up-to-date rebates by using these rebate tools. Also, your installer handles all the paperwork and takes the discount off the system cost.
Who Can Get the STC Rebate?
Most NSW homeowners qualify for the STC rebate if they meet simple rules. Your system must use Clean Energy Council-approved parts and be installed by an accredited professional. The property’s value should be under $3 million, and your household income needs to be below $180,000 per year. In Coffs, where sunshine is plentiful, a 6.6kw system can cover 70% of a home’s electricity, making this rebate a smart choice.
Feed-in Tariffs Explained
Beyond rebates, you can also benefit from feed-in tariffs (FiTs). Essentially, if your panels produce extra power you don’t use, you send it to the grid and get paid. It’s usually 5-20 cents per kilowatt-hour, depending on your energy retailer. On the Mid North Coast, this can shave hundreds off yearly bills. You can use a government website called Energy Made Easy to find the best power plan and FiT rate for your setup.
Battery and Virtual Power Plant Incentives
From November 2024, New South Wales began providing battery rebates dependent on the size of the battery. Additionally, participants in a Virtual Power Plant (VPP), where their battery supports the electrical grid, can earn an extra payment, which is claimable twice over three years.
Low-Income Support
Low-income households in NSW can access special programs. The Rebate Swap for Solar, though closed in 2024, may return, offering free 3kw systems for eligible homes. Plus, interest-free loans for solar and battery setups are also available, repaid over eight years. Check with Service NSW for updates on these options.
Solar Rebates – Why Act Now?
STC rebates drop 4-5% each year and end in 2030, so installing soon maximises your savings. A 6.6kw system in Coffs costs $5,000-$8,000 after rebates, with bill savings of $1,500 yearly. Plus, solar improves a home’s value because, after all, buyers love lower energy costs!
Start Your Solar Savings Now!
Solar rebates make going solar easier and more affordable. Our team can assess your home, explain incentives, and install a system that fits your budget.