What Incentives Are There for Installing Solar on Your Home in Western Australia?

Installing solar panels on your home in Western Australia is not only an environmentally friendly decision but also a financially wise one. The state offers various incentives to encourage homeowners to adopt renewable energy solutions. This article outlines the incentives available for installing solar panels on your home in Western Australia.

Federal Government Incentives

Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES)

The Australian Federal Government offers the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), which provides financial incentives for installing eligible small-scale renewable energy systems, including solar panels.

• Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs): When you install a solar system, you earn STCs, which can be sold to offset the upfront cost of your system.

• How It Works: The number of STCs you receive depends on the size of your system and the deeming period (the number of years until the scheme ends in 2030).

Learn more about the SRES on the Clean Energy Regulator's website.

 

State Government Incentives

Distributed Energy Buyback Scheme (DEBS)

The Western Australian Government offers the Distributed Energy Buyback Scheme (DEBS), allowing households to receive payment for excess energy exported back to the grid.

• Eligibility: Residential customers who install a renewable energy system up to 50 kW may be eligible.

• Rates: DEBS offers time-of-export rates, providing higher payments during peak demand periods.

Find detailed information on DEBS here.

Household Renewable Energy Overview

The state government supports households in adopting renewable energy through various initiatives:

• Energy Policy WA: Provides resources and guidance on renewable energy options for households.

• Regulatory Support: Ensures that policies facilitate the integration of renewable energy into the grid.

Explore the Household Renewable Energy Overview on the Energy Policy WA website.

Other Incentives and Support

Feed-in Tariffs

While traditional feed-in tariffs have been replaced by DEBS, they still play a role for some existing customers:

• Grandfathered Schemes: Customers on earlier feed-in tariff schemes may continue to receive benefits under those agreements.

Solar Panel Rebates and Discounts

Although there is no specific state rebate for solar panels in WA, combining federal incentives with competitive market offerings can significantly reduce installation costs:

• Bulk Purchase Discounts: Some providers offer discounts when multiple households in an area install solar panels simultaneously.

• Seasonal Promotions: Solar retailers may offer promotions or discounts at certain times of the year.

How to Claim Solar Incentives

Eligibility Criteria

To take advantage of these incentives, you need to meet certain criteria:

• System Eligibility: The solar panel system must be new and meet Australian standards.

• Accredited Installers: Installation must be carried out by a Clean Energy Council accredited installer.

Application Process

• Claiming STCs: Often handled by your solar installer, who will offer a discount upfront in exchange for the certificates.

• Registering for DEBS: Apply through your electricity retailer, such as Synergy or Horizon Power.

Refer to the Empower Solar Australia guide for detailed steps on claiming solar incentives.

Benefits of Installing Solar

Financial Savings

• Reduced Electricity Bills: Generate your own electricity and decrease reliance on the grid.

• Return on Investment: Many homeowners see a payback period of 4 to 7 years.

Environmental Impact

• Reduced Carbon Footprint: Solar energy is a clean, renewable resource.

• Energy Independence: Contribute to a more sustainable energy grid.

Conclusion

Western Australia offers several incentives to encourage the adoption of solar energy in homes. By taking advantage of federal schemes like the SRES and state initiatives such as the DEBS, homeowners can significantly reduce the cost of installing solar panels and benefit from ongoing savings on their electricity bills.

Stay informed about the latest incentives and consult with accredited professionals to maximise the benefits of installing solar on your home in Western Australia.