By now, it is clear that solar systems are an excellent investment for homeowners and business owners. Financial benefits include ongoing savings on electricity bills. With the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), you can also enjoy upfront rebates on your solar system.

The Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) is an Australian government initiative. It aims to encourage investments in small-scale solar systems and renewable energy. Understanding the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) and its operation is important. It will enable you to make a more informed decision about your solar energy investment.

Here is all you need to know about the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES):

What Is a Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES)?

It is a government initiative that helps homeowners and business owners save on the upfront costs of small-scale solar systems. The Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) started in 2001. Since then, it has become extremely popular all over Australia.

To be eligible for the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES):

• The solar system size should not exceed 100 kW.

• If the system includes solar batteries, their capacity should be between 5 kWh and 100 kWh.

• The solar system must also be designed and installed by Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) accredited professionals.

• All components of your solar system must also be included in the Clean Energy Council (CEC) approved products list.

As of 1 July 2025, the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) has expanded. It now includes the Cheaper Home Batteries Program. This initiative offers rebates on solar battery installations. You can benefit from all incentives of the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) until the end of 2030. That is when the scheme is scheduled to end.

How Does SRES Work?

There is a misconception that the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) offers a direct rebate on the price of solar systems. In fact, it offers an upfront discount, but through tradable certificates. They are called the Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs).

Like any tradable commodity, the value of Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs) fluctuates. It changes according to the market supply and demand. Your solar system will earn a certain number of STCs. This number is based on factors such as the capacity of your installed solar system. Your geographic location in Australia also plays a role.

The number of years from solar system installation until the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) ends in 2030 is also essential. It decreases every year, reducing the number of STCs you can claim. That is why it is advisable to install your solar system as soon as possible, to maximise your STCs.

As the solar system owner, you will have the right to sell your STCs. Most people assign their STCs to their solar system installer. So, they can enjoy an upfront rebate on their solar system effortlessly. The supplier typically deducts the total value of your Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) from the price of your solar system.

How Can Tindo Help?

As an accredited solar installer we will help you unlock all the benefits of the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). Our solar system components are all included in the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme approved list. We also manufacture high-quality, Australian-made solar panels. Our state-of-the-art solar panels are designed to maximise performance. They can also withstand the extreme weather conditions of Australia.

You can rely on our experts to guide you through the scheme eligibility and solar product options. We understand that every home or business is unique. That is why our experts will help calculate your potential savings through the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme.

So, you can choose the best solar system that maximises your savings. Navigating the paperwork for the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme and other government rebates can be a challenging task. Fortunately, we have plenty of experience in this field. Our team will help you manage the entire process smoothly from start to finish. We will also advise you on any additional solar incentives that may be available to you.

Unlock all the benefits of the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). Contact Tindo for a quote!