Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES): Cutting Costs, Boosting Sustainability
Making the switch to solar power more attractive and accessible has been a priority for the Australian government. To achieve their solar energy targets, both federal and state governments offer various incentives. One of the most popular and influential federal programs is the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).
Upfront financial incentives of the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme make solar systems more affordable. So that homes and small businesses across Australia can enjoy the benefits of clean, renewable solar energy.
From cutting down the initial costs of solar systems to boosting sustainability, the SRES offers numerous benefits. Here is how:
Lower Initial Costs
Thanks to the SRES and other government incentives, solar systems are now much more affordable. Still, solar batteries were considered a considerable investment for homeowners in Australia. That is why the federal government has expanded the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme. In July 2025, the Cheaper Home Batteries Program was launched. This program is part of the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme.
Under this program, eligible households can receive up to a 30 per cent discount on the installation costs of solar batteries. Every year, this percentage will gradually decrease until the end of the SRES in 2030. To maximise your benefits from the SRES, install your solar battery sooner rather than later.
The financial incentives under the SRES are provided through Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). When you install an SRES eligible solar system, you will earn a certain number of STCs. The amount of STCs is based on the expected energy output of your solar system. For convenience, your solar installer can sell the STCs on your behalf. In exchange, they will offer you an upfront discount on the costs of your solar system.
Switch To Sustainable Energy
By making solar systems more affordable, SRES not only saves you money but also helps you save energy. The SRES also helps significantly reduce the carbon footprints of homes across Australia. Traditional energy relies on harmful resources, like fossil fuels. By lowering the initial costs of solar systems and batteries, SRES makes them a more attractive investment. This encourages the switch to clean, sustainable solar energy.
Ongoing Savings
Government solar incentives, like the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme, do not only provide upfront savings. You will also enjoy ongoing financial benefits from your solar system. Installing a solar battery can significantly reduce your reliance on the grid. It grants you access to renewable, solar energy day and night. Thanks to the SRES, you can avoid paying more for electricity during peak times.
With electricity costs constantly rising, savings on your power bills will only get higher. Relying less on the grid also provides you with electricity security. You will not need to worry about blackouts, as you have a reliable, independent energy source that can power your essential loads
Make Money Out of Your Solar System
Expanding the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme to cover solar batteries has unlocked a long list of benefits. One of the eligibility criteria of the Cheaper Home Batteries Program is installing a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) ready battery. Under the SRES, you do not have to join a VPP if you do not want to. However, you can earn extra savings or income by participating in a VPP.
Some VPP programs offer bill credits, others provide cash payments. All you need to do is allow your solar battery to support the grid during peak demand. That does not mean losing the solar power that your household needs. On the contrary, the system will first meet your home energy needs; each VPP program offers a different level of energy contribution to the grid. Extra generated solar power will be exported to the grid.
Unlock All Benefits of SRES
To promote the switch to solar energy, both federal and state governments offer various incentives. These are also constantly updated. Trying to keep up with SRES and other solar programs can be overwhelming. That is why you need a trusted solar supplier like Tindo.
Over the years, we have guided customers through previous rebate programs, like SRES. Our experts know how to smoothly manage the process, from quote to installation. You will not need to worry about paperwork or other stressful obstacles. With over a decade of experience, we deliver hassle-free end-to-end service.
At Tindo, we are not just Australia’s only solar panel manufacturer. We are also proud to be an experienced and accredited SAA solar battery installer. It does not matter if you want to install a new solar system or add a battery to your current one. We will guide you through all SRES eligibility criteria and product options. So, you can maximise your SRES rebate and benefit from other available programs. Our experts will help you calculate your potential SRES savings. So, you can choose the best solar system that maximises your return.
Unlock all the benefits of the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme. Contact our experts now!
