Solar Panels Rebates in Victoria 2026: Full Guide
Written and reviewed by the ThermaQuote team · Last updated
Eligible Victoria households can stack solar panels rebates worth up to ~$3,700 upfront (system-size dependent) off the installed price. Below is every program, what it's worth, who qualifies and how to claim — plus a worked example of the cost after rebates.
Victoria solar panels rebates in detail
Solar Homes Program — Solar PV rebate
up to $1,400 rebate (plus an optional interest-free loan of up to $1,400)Administered by Solar Victoria
- Who's eligible
- Owner-occupiers (existing homes or new builds); property value under $3 million; no previous solar PV or battery rebate at the address, and no system installed there in the past 10 years.
- How to claim
- Apply via Solar Victoria before installation using an authorised solar retailer.
- Income test / key date
- Combined household income under $210,000 now, reducing to $150,000 or less from 1 July 2026
Federal STCs (Small-scale Technology Certificates)
~$2,300–$2,400 off a 6.6kW system (more for larger systems; declines each year to 2030, with the deeming period stepping down on 1 January)Administered by Clean Energy Regulator
- Who's eligible
- CEC-accredited installer and eligible panels and inverter.
- How to claim
- Certificates are assigned to your installer for an upfront discount.
Solar feed-in tariff
small and retailer-set — the 2025–26 Victorian minimum is just 0.04c/kWh flat (time-varying plans pay up to ~6.57c/kWh at the evening peak, ~0c during the day)Administered by Essential Services Commission / your electricity retailer
- Who's eligible
- Households exporting surplus solar to the grid.
- How to claim
- Credited automatically by your retailer each bill. With minimums now near zero, the real value is in using your own solar during the day, not exporting it.
Before & after rebates: a worked example
A realistic Victoria example for a 10kW system. Illustrative only — your price and eligibility will vary.
| Indicative 10kW system (installed) | $8,250 |
|---|---|
| Less rebates available (up to) | −$3,700 |
| Indicative cost after rebates | from $4,550 |
Eligibility checklist
Most Victoria programs share similar conditions. You'll generally need to confirm:
- You own the property (or have owner consent for a rental)
- The property and product meet the program’s eligibility rules
- Installation is by an accredited installer using an eligible product
- You haven’t already claimed the same rebate at this address
- You meet any household income or property-value thresholds
Rebate amounts, eligibility and deadlines change frequently and depend on your circumstances. Figures here are a guide only and were last checked on the date shown — always confirm current values and eligibility with the relevant authority before purchasing. ThermaQuote does not guarantee eligibility.
Victoria rebate FAQs
How much do solar panels cost in Victoria?
A quality 6.6kW system typically costs $4,000–$6,500 after the federal STC discount, with larger 10–13kW systems running higher. The Solar Homes Program rebate can reduce the price further for eligible households.
Is solar worth it in Victoria?
For most homes, yes. A 6.6kW system commonly saves $1,000–$1,600 a year and pays for itself in three to five years, then keeps saving for the 25-year life of the panels.
What size solar system do I need?
It depends on your usage and roof. 6.6kW suits many homes; go larger (10kW or more) if you're all-electric, plan to add a battery or EV, or use a lot of power during the day.
Can I add a battery later?
Yes. If a battery is likely down the track, ask for a hybrid or battery-ready inverter now so you don't have to pay to replace it later.
What rebates apply to solar in Victoria?
Eligible households can combine the Solar Homes Program rebate with federal STCs, and earn a feed-in tariff for exported power. Check current amounts and eligibility before you buy.
Claim your solar panels rebates
Get free quotes from accredited installers who apply the rebates for you.