Solar Panel Victoria Rebate: How It Works for Victorian Residence

Discover the potential of the Victorian solar panel rebate program, a groundbreaking initiative to subsidize home batteries, rooftop solar, and solar hot water for an impressive 777,000 households in Victoria. With a substantial allocation of AUS$545 million from the 2019-20 budget, the government aims to empower Victorians to embrace solar technology through a $1.3 billion investment over a decade. Furthermore, this comprehensive guide eliminates confusion for prospective and current beneficiaries, unraveling the intricacies of the solar rebate concept. 

Delve into the details below to gain insights into the program’s evolution, eligibility criteria, operational mechanisms, and the application process. Emphasizing rooftop solar panels, our team presents a holistic view, helping you maximize the benefits of your solar investments while grasping the rebate’s underlying purpose. Elevate your understanding of solar panel rebate Victoria and seize control of your journey with this informative resource.

What is Victoria Solar Panel Rebate?

The Victorian government introduced a state-level rebate scheme in August of 2018 for solar panels as part of the “Solar Homes Package.” Moreover, as of March 2024, the value of the Victorian rebate is up to $1,400 or 50% of the system’s price, whichever is lower. This means:

• If you purchase a $2,500 solar system, you can apply for a $1,250 rebate.
• For a $6,600 system, the rebate is capped at $1,400.
• Buying a $4,450 system allows you to apply for the maximum $1,400 rebate.

Moreover, eligibility criteria include residing in a home valued under $3 million with a household income below $180,000, encompassing 9 out of 10 Victorian homeowners. Notably, the Victorian rebate complements the Federal scheme. Therefore, purchasing a $6,600 6.6kW solar system translates to receiving a system valued at $10,000. This accounts for the Federal subsidy of approximately $2,000 and the Victorian rebate of $1,400.

Solar Panel Victoria Rebate Eligibility Requirements

As of March 2024, households can qualify for the Solar Homes Program in Victoria by meeting specific criteria outlined on the Solar Victoria website:

1. Ownership: You must be the owner-occupier of an existing property or a home under construction where the solar system is intended to be installed.
2. Income: All owners’ combined household taxable income should be less than $210,000 annually.
3. Previous Rebates: As the owner-occupier, you and the property address should have previously received a solar panel or solar battery rebate under the Solar Homes Program.
4. Property Value: The existing or under-construction property should be under $3 million.
5. Installation Date: The property should not have had a solar panel system installed after November 1, 2009.

Notably, those who adopted solar power systems before November 1, 2009, are eligible to replace or expand their existing systems. However, recipients of the legacy Premium Feed-in tariff risk losing it with a new system installation. Considering the tariffs end on November 1, 2024, it might be prudent to act sooner to avoid potential reductions or cessation of the Victorian rebate in the 2024/25 financial year.

Additional Benefits of the Program

Suppose you are eligible for the Victoria solar panel rebate. In that case, an additional benefit was an interest-free loan offered by the Victorian state government. This loan mirrors the original rebate amount of $1,850, allowing recipients to repay it over four years or 48 months. However, it is advised to stay informed about any changes to the rebate. Furthermore, initially designed for 770,000 Victorians within a $1.3 billion budget, are currently 64,416 spots available for both the solar panel rebate and interest-free loan. This means those who qualify can still install solar panels and enjoy a rebate of up to $1,850.

How to Claim Solar Panel Rebate Victoria?

The solar panel rebates Victoria cut the initial cost of your solar power installation. Obtain a quote from an accredited solar retailer and apply for the Solar Victoria rebate portal rebate. If eligible, you will receive a confirmation number (QR code). Then, proceed with the installation using this unique code. Once done, Solar Victoria pays the rebate amount directly to your retailer on your behalf post-installation. To know more about how you can claim a solar panel rebate, check the guide below:

1. Select Accredited Provider. To ensure successful solar panel installation and rebate eligibility, choose an accredited provider like Opt Energy. Then, your provider’s accreditation guarantees a team of licensed experts. 
2. Request a Quote. Initiate the solar panels Victoria rebate process by obtaining a quote from them. Discuss your needs, and after deliberation, Opt Energy will provide a comprehensive quote detailing costs, panel specifications, and size. Focus on three key details: Provider Name, Quote No, and Quote Amount (pre-subsidy).
3. Prepare Necessary Documents. Gather essential documents before submitting your application. Required documents include proof of property ownership (council rates notice), identity (driver’s license, passport), and income status (ATO Notice of Assessment or Centrelink Payment Summary).
4. Apply for Rebate. With the accredited provider’s quote and necessary documents, submit your application on the Victoria Solar Rebate portal. Utilize retailer information for a smooth application process, seeking assistance from a solar expert if needed.
5. Confirm Identity & Income. During the application process, verify your identity and income status by uploading the required documents and providing the necessary information.
6. Provide Loan Repayment Details. While applying, decide whether you want a government interest-free loan. If chosen, provide bank details for loan repayments, calculated based on benefits your provider specifies.
7. Receive Confirmation Number. Afterward, an email confirmation from Solar Victoria is automatic. Upon eligibility confirmation, a QR code will be emailed as your eligibility number. Address any issues promptly to avoid delays.
8. Schedule Installation. Confirm your intent to proceed with the provider’s quote and schedule installation. Collaborate on system design, ensuring it aligns with your energy needs, and consider past usage patterns.
9. Complete Installation. The provider, supervised by an engineer, installs the solar panel system. After that, a safety inspector assesses the installation’s compliance and provides a Certificate of Electrical Safety (CoES). Pay the provider the owed amount, excluding deductions like rebate and loan (if opted), with the remainder settled by Solar Victoria.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it worth getting solar panels in Victoria?

Yes, it’s highly worthwhile. Victoria provides enticing incentives, including the Solar Homes rebate, federal rebates, and no-interest loans. Reduced competition and ongoing environmental and cost benefits make solar panel installation in Victoria a smart choice. Furthermore, to determine specific advantages for your property, request quotes from accredited providers and explore available incentives. Invest wisely for long-term savings and environmental impact.

2. Can I claim both the Victorian Solar Homes and federal rebates?

You can claim both, however, the Victorian rebate is a one-time claim. On the other hand, the federal rebate is unlimited for multiple properties or new installations. Existing solar systems cannot be upgraded using the Victorian rebate, except in specific cases.

3. Should I hurry to claim the rebate solar panels Victoria?

The initial phase was fully funded until June 30, 2019, or until 24,000 households claimed it first. After reopening on July 1, 2019, with monthly rebates and no-interest loans, the goal is 650,000 homes benefiting from the Solar Homes Package. Meanwhile, while competition has eased in 2024, it’s always a good time to consider solar and request quotes.