<h2>Solar STCs for Off-Grid Systems</h2><p>One of the most common questions we hear from customers considering an off-grid solar system is whether they can still access government rebates. The short answer is yes — provided your system and installation meet the eligibility rules under the federal Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).</p><p>A new off-grid solar array of up to 100kW can qualify for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), the same rebate mechanism used for grid-connected solar. To be eligible, the panels and inverter must appear on the Clean Energy Regulator's approved product lists, and the system must be designed and installed by an SAA-accredited installer. STCs must be created within 12 months of installation. In practice, your installer assigns the STCs to a registered agent, and the value is deducted from your upfront installation cost — you don't need to do any paperwork.</p><h2>Battery STCs for Off-Grid Systems</h2><p>An off-grid battery may also qualify for STCs, but the rules are more specific. The battery must supply a genuine lived-in dwelling — not just a shed, bore pump, or agricultural equipment. It must be connected to a solar system of no more than 100kW, be new, and have a nominal capacity between 5kWh and 100kWh. The battery must appear on the CEC-approved battery list and be installed by an SAA-accredited installer with the required battery endorsement.</p><p>Only the first 50kWh of usable capacity receives STCs, and generally only one battery system can be claimed per off-grid dwelling.</p><h2>Distance from the Grid</h2><p>Your property's distance from the grid affects one specific requirement. Properties more than 1km from the nearest grid connection point do not need to be VPP (Virtual Power Plant) capable to qualify. Properties within 1km of the grid must normally be VPP-capable, unless you can provide written evidence that connecting to the grid would cost more than $30,000.</p><h2>Tiered Battery STC Rates — What Changed in May 2026</h2><p>As of August 2026, battery STCs are calculated using tiered rates introduced on 1 May 2026. The highest level of support applies to the first 14kWh of usable battery capacity. A lower rate applies to capacity between 14kWh and 28kWh, and a further reduced rate applies above 28kWh.</p><p>This means larger battery systems receive proportionally less support per kWh than smaller ones — but still receive a meaningful rebate overall. Your Makn Energy installer will calculate the exact STC value for your system at the time of quoting.</p><h2>What This Means for Your Off-Grid Quote</h2><p>An eligible new off-grid installation can potentially receive both solar STCs and battery STCs, but each component must satisfy its own requirements independently. STC values also change over time as the deeming period reduces each year and the market price fluctuates.</p><p>When Makn Energy provides your quote, we include the current STC discount applied upfront — so the price you see already reflects the rebate, with no paperwork required on your end.</p><p>If you're considering an off-grid system and want to understand exactly what rebates apply to your property and situation, <a href="/contact">contact our team for a free assessment</a>. We'll walk you through the eligibility requirements and give you a clear, all-inclusive quote.</p>