Commercial Solar Support Expands to 1 MW
Australia’s expanded Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme gives installers and EPCs a new route to upfront certificate support for larger solar projects. From 1 October 2026, eligible systems above 100 kW and up to 1 MW can receive small-scale technology certificates, or STCs.
For commercial customers, the change can improve the business case for a new installation or an extension to an existing array. Before revisiting a quote, check which capacity qualifies, the commissioning date and how the certificate payment will be handled.
A fixed five-year deeming period
Eligible mid-scale systems receive STCs based on a fixed five-year deeming period. Unlike the declining deeming period for small-scale solar, this five-year arrangement remains available for eligible mid-scale installations through to the scheme’s end in 2030.
The government estimates installation costs could fall by around 20%. Use the mid-scale STC calculator from the Clean Energy Regulator (CER) to estimate the certificate entitlement, then confirm the value with your agent. The calculator is a guide, and the saving will depend on the project and certificate value.
Commissioning determines the installation date
Installation occurs when the system can first produce and deliver electricity. The CER uses the commissioning date on its electrical compliance certificate or state or territory equivalent.
Projects started before October may still qualify. Eligibility depends on the recorded installation date and satisfaction of the remaining requirements.
Existing arrays can present new opportunities
An extension below 100 kW can qualify where it is electrically connected to the existing array as the same system, and their combined capacity exceeds 100 kW without exceeding 1 MW. Only the added capacity receives STCs.
The CER gives an example of an 80 kW array expanded by 40 kW. The resulting 120 kW system may qualify, but the five-year STC entitlement applies only to the new 40 kW.
For staged or multi-system projects, check the related-system rules. The 1 MW assessment includes relevant related solar devices and power stations, so a new array’s individual rating is not the only capacity that matters. Electrical configuration, metering and existing generation need to be considered before quoting. Refer to the CER’s transitional guidance when assessing the proposed configuration.
The choice of certificate pathway also matters. If a customer chooses STCs, the system cannot create Renewable Electricity Guarantee of Origin certificates during the deeming period. Discuss that choice early if the customer’s energy strategy includes those certificates.
Build the evidence file during the project
The CER requires written evidence that applicable government planning and approval requirements have been met. Keep design and metering records, connection approvals, compliance certificates and commissioning evidence, plus structural reports where applicable. Panel serial numbers must also be verifiable.
Accredited installers must capture geotagged, time-stamped photos showing their face, the installed equipment and testing and commissioning. If commissioning spans several days, take the required photos on the final day. Recreating evidence after completion may not be accepted.
Allow for the application opening date
Eligible installations can occur from 1 October, but STC applications are expected to open in mid to late November 2026. Assessment begins after applications open. STCs must be created within 12 months of installation.
Agree the expected certificate value, who funds any upfront discount and when payment is due before the customer signs. That gives both parties a clear basis for the quote while certificate processing is being established.
For commercial solar and battery scoping, DPA can assess potential system size and payback using Orkestra. Contact your DPA salesperson with the site’s interval meter data and an electricity bill.