Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs)

The Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) creates a financial incentive for owners to install eligible small-scale installations such as solar water heaters, air sourced heat pumps and small generation units (small-scale solar, wind and hydro systems). AICA Engineering takes this into account, reducing the cost of your system. We handle all the complex aspects of dealing with the SRES scheme and provide you with the discounted price.

Eligible systems are entitled to a certain number of small-scale technology certificates (STCs) based on the amount of renewable electricity the system produces or displaces. These STCs can be created and sold to buyers (usually liable entities emitting greenhouse gasses).

The value of a Small-scale Technology Certificate (STC, formerly called Renewable Energy Certificate or a REC) can fluctuate daily. Their market value is determined by the supply and demand situation at any one point. Importantly for you, the discount that can be claimed on an approved solar power system or solar hot water system can be calculated by:

The number of STCs attributed to that product * STC Value = Amount received as a point of sale discount.

The STCs for a solar power system is calculated by multiplying the rated output of the system in KW by the factor of the Zone (Zone 3, Perth = 1.382), multiplied by the deeming period of 15 years, rounded down.

  • For a 1.5KW system: 1.5 X 1.382 X 15 = 30 STC’s. (Zone 3).
  • For a 4KW system: 4 X 1.382 X 15 = 82 STC’s (Zone 3)
  • Untied to grid / standalone systems STC’s available up to 20KW with no multiplier.

Further information on the SRES and other rebates is available from the Office of the Renewable Energy Regulator.