Maximise Your STC Rebate in 2025 with Climate Green Melbourne
At Climate Green, we’re committed to helping Victorians unlock the full potential of renewable energy. One of the key federal incentives available is the Small-scale Technology Certificate (STC) Rebate Scheme, which provides significant upfront discounts when you install approved solar panels, solar hot water systems, or energy-efficient heat pump hot water units.
What is the STC Rebate Scheme?
The STC scheme was introduced to encourage Australian homes and businesses to switch to renewable energy. When you install an eligible system, you earn a set number of STCs based on your system size, location, and the remaining “deeming years” until the program ends in 2030.
Installers like Climate Green usually take care of the STC process on your behalf — giving you an upfront discount on your total system cost. We handle the certificates, trading, and registration, so you can enjoy immediate savings without the paperwork.
Who Can Benefit?
- Victorian homeowners
- Businesses
- Community organisations
Your system must be Clean Energy Council (CEC) approved and below 100 kW to qualify under the STC scheme. Technologies that qualify include:
- Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems
- Heat pump hot water systems
- Solar hot water systems
Note: Reverse-cycle air conditioners are not STC-eligible, but they’re still highly efficient when powered by solar — and can be installed under the VEU program, which Climate Green is accredited for.
Why the STC Rebate Drops Each Year
The STC rebate is gradually being phased out, ending in 2030. The number of certificates you receive is based on how many years of clean energy production remain — known as the “deeming period.”
Here’s a quick look at how this affects your rebate:
| Year Installed | Deeming Period | Approx. STCs (Vic) | Rebate Value (@ $38/STC) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 8 years | ~63 STCs | ~$2,394 |
| 2024 | 7 years | ~55 STCs | ~$2,090 |
| 2025 | 6 years | ~47 STCs | ~$1,786 |
By installing sooner, you secure more STCs and a higher upfront discount.
How It’s Calculated
The number of STCs your system earns is based on this formula:
STCs = System Size (kW) × Zone Rating × Deeming Period
In Victoria (Zone 4), a 6.6 kW solar system will generate about 47 STCs in 2025. If the market price is around $38 per STC, that gives you approximately $1,786 off your installation cost — just from this federal incentive.
Can You Trade STCs Yourself?
Technically, yes — but it’s complex, time-consuming, and often not worth the hassle. With Climate Green, you get the full value upfront. We manage the process from start to finish so you don’t have to worry.
Claiming Multiple Times?
You can only claim STCs once per installation. However, you can claim again if you expand your system or add new eligible technology (e.g., more solar panels or a separate hot water heat pump system), as long as the combined system remains under 100 kW.
Combine Solar with Efficient Heating & Cooling
For Victorian homes, pairing solar with energy-efficient reverse cycle heating, heat pump hot water systems, and even home battery storage maximises your savings.
- A Neo Power Heat Pump slashes hot water energy use by up to 70%
- A reverse-cycle air conditioner offers year-round comfort with less energy
- Battery systems store your solar energy for use at night or during peak hours
All of these technologies can be stacked with the STC rebate, and some may qualify for additional VEU or Solar Victoria rebates as well.
Double the Support: STC + Victorian Rebates
Climate Green helps you combine rebates for greater savings:
- STC Rebate (Federal): ~$1,786 off a 6.6 kW system in 2025
- Solar Victoria Rebate: Up to $1,400 off + $1,400 interest-free loan
- Battery Rebate:
$3,720 off for a 10 kWh battery ($372 per kWh)
These rebates make energy upgrades more affordable than ever — especially if you act before further reductions in the deeming period.
Final Thoughts
With the STC rebate set to shrink again in 2026, 2025 is the ideal time to install solar and heat pump solutions. Climate Green takes care of the entire process — from system sizing and rebate claims to expert installation.
Whether you’re in Melbourne or a nearby suburb, we’re here to make your switch to clean energy smooth, compliant, and cost-effective.
Call us today: 1300 001 690
info@climategreen.com.au
www.climategreen.com.au
Let’s electrify your home and maximise your 2025 energy rebates — together.
What is the STC rebate, and how does it work?
The STC (Small-scale Technology Certificate) rebate is a federal government incentive that provides upfront discounts on eligible solar, heat pump, and hot water systems. Installers like Climate Green apply the STC value as a discount on your quote and manage the paperwork for you.
How much can I save with the STC rebate in 2025?
In 2025, a typical 6.6 kW solar system in Victoria earns around 47 STCs. With current STC prices (~$38), this equates to an upfront saving of approximately $1,786.
Can I still get the rebate in 2026 or later?
Yes, but the rebate value drops every year until 2030. This is due to the shrinking “deeming period.” The earlier you install, the higher your rebate.
Is the STC rebate available for batteries or air conditioners?
Batteries do not qualify under STC, but they may be eligible under other programs like Solar Victoria’s battery rebate. Reverse cycle air conditioners are not STC-eligible but may qualify under the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) scheme.
Can I claim STCs if I expand my existing solar system?
Yes, you can claim STCs for any new or expanded system under 100 kW. However, STCs can only be claimed once per installation.
