What is a Small-scale Technology Certificate (STC)?
Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) are tradeable certificates issued under Australia's Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) for eligible solar and renewable systems, typically redeemed as an upfront discount on installation costs.
The Small-scale Technology Certificate scheme operates under the SRES framework and creates tradeable certificates whenever an eligible solar system is installed. Each certificate represents one megawatt-hour of renewable energy the system is expected to generate over a deeming period, currently seven years for most solar photovoltaic systems.
The number of STCs you receive depends on three main factors. System size measured in kilowatts determines the baseline generation. Zone rating, which reflects Perth's solar resource intensity, adjusts the calculation for your location. The deeming period sets the time window over which energy generation is estimated.
Rather than claiming a rebate later, most householders and small businesses receive STCs as an immediate discount applied at the point of purchase. A government-rebate specialist or solar installer creates and assigns the certificates to a licensed agent (often a retailer or financial company) who then passes the benefit to you. The certificate value fluctuates based on market demand and the legislated creation rate, so the dollar discount you receive can vary depending on when you install and which retailer redeems the certificates on your behalf.
STCs are separate from other state-based rebates and apply to systems up to 100 kilowatts. They form part of Australia's renewable energy policy and are not a grant-they are a financial mechanism that reduces your net solar system cost upfront.