Small-scale technology certificates, or STCs, are credits issued by the NSW Federal Government under their Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme towards roof top solar installations in the state.

This scheme runs annually, per calendar year, to provide incentives and assistance to purchasers of solar panels and inverters for systems aimed at reducing energy costs. Business solar rebates for commercial properties are also available.

Rebates are highly regulated, requiring a serious commitment to supplying evidence that the system was installed by a professional solar system installer. Fines apply if this is not the case and it also works to disqualify unrecognised installers, if necessary. This helps maintain industry standards and ensure that only professional installation companies survive to service the solar system market.

At present, there is provision for rebates to be claimed until 2030, though the number of credits issued is reducing every year as more people are taking up the renewable energy option.

The growing number of home solar installations is testament to the success of the scheme which has helped thousands of home-owners put solar panels on their rooftops and start saving.

Rebates help cover the cost of the solar panels, reducing the outlay required to start producing your own power.