Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES)

Purpose and Program Overview

The Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) is an Australian Government initiative. It provides a financial incentive for households and small businesses to install renewable energy systems. The main goal is to reduce the upfront cost of a system.

The program’s incentive is delivered through tradable certificates. These are called Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). Most system owners get an upfront discount on installation by assigning their STCs to the installer.

The Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme supports Australia’s shift to cleaner energy. It helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It also allows owners to lower their electricity bills by using their own power.

Key Grant Details

• Grant amount or funding range: A financial incentive is provided through an upfront discount. The value is based on the fluctuating market price of STCs.
• Application open and close dates: The scheme is ongoing. The value of STCs is phased out annually. The scheme is scheduled to end in 2030.
• Eligible industries or business types: Households and small businesses.
• Required co-contributions: Yes, the applicant is responsible for the remaining cost of the system after the STC discount.
• Location/state/territory applicability: Australia-wide.

Priority Sectors

Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme is for businesses in the clean energy sector. It focuses on small-scale renewable energy installations.

Funding Scope

The funding is not a direct cash grant. It is a discount on the purchase price. The number of STCs a system receives is based on its size and geographic location. The value of STCs changes with market demand. The scheme’s financial benefit is phased out each year until 2030.

Grant Amount in Total

A specific total funding pool for the scheme is not specified. The cost is met by energy retailers who buy STCs to meet their obligations.

Eligibility Criteria

• Business structure or size: The scheme is for small businesses. It is not for industrial-scale systems.
• Registered business location: Not specified.
• Minimum/maximum turnover: Not specified.
• Insurance or compliance obligations: The system must be installed by a Clean Energy Council-accredited installer. It must use approved products. The system must meet state and territory electrical safety rules.
• ABN/GST status: Not specified.

Eligible Activities and Expenses

The scheme supports the purchase and installation of eligible small-scale renewable energy systems. This includes:

• Rooftop solar panels (no more than 100 kW)
• Solar batteries (between 5 kWh and 100 kWh)
• Solar water heaters and air source heat pumps
• Small-scale wind and hydro systems

Assessment Process

The scheme is entitlement-based. The incentive is given to anyone who meets the criteria. It is not a competitive process. The value of the incentive is determined by the number of STCs created.

Recent Program Updates

As of 1 July 2025, the Cheaper Home Batteries Program expands the SRES. This offers a discount on battery installations via STCs. The value of STCs is currently phased out annually. The scheme is expected to end in 2030.

Application Tips

Double-check all eligibility criteria. Prepare key documents in advance. Align the proposal with government priorities. Show capability, outcomes, and benefits.

Where to Get Help

Consider consulting with a professional grant specialist like Pattens Group. We offer initial assessments to review your business’s eligibility and evaluate how well your project aligns with the grant’s objectives. Visit www.cer.gov.au or www.energy.gov.au for guidelines and support.