2024 vs 2025 STCs: Why Now is the Best Time to Switch to Solar

NOTE: A 2026 update to this information is now available at our blog titled STC Changes Bring the Biggest Commercial Solar Reform in a Decade

If your business is considering investing in commercial solar, now is the ideal time to act.

The value of Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), which provide a significant rebate on the cost of solar systems, will decrease after 1 January 2025. This means that delaying locking in your solar project – which, in turn, will delay installation – could end up costing your business up to $9,000,

What Are STCs and Why Are They Important?

STCs are part of Australia’s Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). These certificates reflect the expected energy generation of a solar system over its lifetime and are applicable for systems under 100kW capacity.

Basically, the more STCs your system generates, the larger the rebate your business can claim. However, the number of STCs (and hence, the discount you receive) decreases each year on 1 January as part of a gradual phase-out of this incentive. Solar systems installed after 1 January 2025 will therefore be eligible for fewer STCs, increasing the net cost for your business.

For businesses, this will mean an increase of approximately 4-5% in the overall cost of a solar installation if the system is installed after the reduction in STCs. By locking in your project before the end of the year, your business can maximise the rebate and minimise installation costs.

Why Businesses Should Act Before the End of the Year

To take full advantage of the current value of STCs, your solar system must be installed and operational by 31 December 2024. Any delay beyond this date will reduce the number of STCs you receive, directly lowering the financial incentive available - check out the chart and table below to see the difference.

With rising energy costs and the increasing importance of sustainability, installing solar power is already guaranteed to deliver positive financial outcomes for your business. STCs make this financial position even more attractive, improving your return-on-investment and reducing payback periods significantly.

Special Offer: Lock in 2024 STC Prices by Booking Before 30 September 2024

At Smart Commercial Energy, we’re always looking for ways to make it easier for businesses to adopt budget-friendly renewable energy. That’s why we’ve created a great incentive to encourage businesses to take advantage of the more favourable STC pricing available this year.

If you book your solar project with us before 30 September 2024, we will honour the 2024 STC prices, even if your system isn’t installed until 2025. This offer allows you to lock in the maximum rebate without rushing to complete the installation before the deadline.

By booking now, your business can secure the financial benefits of the current STC rate while enjoying the flexibility of scheduling your installation at a convenient time. This is a great opportunity to future-proof your business against rising energy costs and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, all while taking advantage of significant financial incentives.