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ACT Home Energy Support Program
Considering a solar upgrade but wondering about the upfront cost? Canberra residents are in luck: the ACT Government offers generous rebates and interest-free loans for rooftop solar systems. In this blog, we explain how much support is available, who qualifies, and how to apply—all designed to ensure solar works for every Canberra household.
Why Canberra Supports Solar
The ACT has ambitious climate goals: net–zero emissions by 2045 and 100% renewable electricity since 2020. To help residents transition, the government offers financial assistance like:
- Up to $2,500 solar rebate for concession holders
- Combined solar and household upgrade rebates totaling $5,000
- Interest-free loans up to $10–15,000
- Federal Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs) for solar systems
These incentives are part of Canberra’s path to cleaner, greener energy.
Home Energy Support Program (HESP)
The cornerstone for solar rebates in the ACT is the Home Energy Support Program (HESP)
Here’s how it helps:
- Up to $2,500 rebate for rooftop solar installation
- Another $2,500 rebate for home upgrades like insulation, heat pumps, or electric stovetops—totaling $5,000
- Eligibility: pensioners, veterans, Health Care Card holders; embedded property value thresholds; completion of an ACT energy workshop
Steps to Apply:
- Attend the free workshop (online or in person)—a program requirement
- Obtain quotes from accredited installers (e.g., Prime Solar Energy)
- Submit the application before installation
- Rebate paid within ~10 business days after job completion
Sustainable Household Scheme (SHS)
Non-concession homeowners can still benefit from solar through the Sustainable Household Scheme, part of Canberra’s electrification push:
- Up to $15,000 interest-free loan over 10 years for solar panels, solar batteries, EV infrastructure
- Can be combined with HESP rebate and federal STCs
- Eligibility requires property value below certain thresholds and workshop attendance
How Much You Can Save: A Real-World Example
- Installing a mid-range 6.6kW system might cost $8,000 before incentives
- Receive ~$2,500 STC credit — net price $5,500
- $2,500 HESP rebate taken at billing (pre-install)
- Final out-of-pocket: ~$3,000
- Add interest-free loan for batteries? No problem—install now, pay later
That’s how Canberra makes solar accessible.
Getting Ready: Eligibility Checklist
Before applying, ensure you meet the key criteria:
| Eligibility Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Concession Card | Pensioner, DVA Gold, or Health Care Card |
| Property Ownership | Own & occupy the home in the ACT |
| Property Value | UV ≤ $750k (house/unit) or ≤ $300k (apartment) |
| Workshop Completed | Mandatory before any application |
| Installer Approved | Must be CEC‑accredited |
| Apply Before Install | Rebates must be approved before the work begins |
Application Process Overview
- Sign up for an ACT Government energy workshop
- Get quotes from reputable providers like Prime Solar Energy
- Submit your rebate application (HESP or SHS) with the installer’s input
- Install solar system after approval
- Claim rebate, typically processed within 10 business days
- Enjoy savings and long-term energy credits
Beyond the Upfront Savings
- Feed-in tariffs: Earn 7–12¢/kWh for excess energy
- Lower operating costs: Solar reduces reliance on grid and stabilizes bills
- Carbon reduction: Supports ACT’s zero‑emissions goals
- Battery-ready: Install a hybrid inverter now and add storage later
Why Trust Prime Solar Energy?
We’re more than just installers—we guide you through every step.
- CEC‑Accredited installers
- In-house team—no subcontractors
- Full experience with HESP & SHS applications
- Transparent quotes with system options (e.g. 6.6kW or 10.5kW)
- Long-term warranties and ongoing support
We make clean energy work for real homes in real Canberra suburbs—no guesswork, only real savings.
Final Thoughts
- Canberra’s solar rebate programs reduce upfront costs by 50% (up to $2,500)
- Combined with STCs and interest-free loans, solar is more affordable than ever
- Properly sized systems pay for themselves in 3–5 years, then yield free electricity
- Prime Solar Energy helps you unlock solar savings completely—no hassle, just reliable power
FAQs: Canberra Solar Rebates
Q1: Can I apply the rebate retroactively?
No—apply before installation begins; workshop and quotes must be submitted early.
Q2: Do renters qualify?
No—must be an owner-occupier with a valid concession card for HESP, or owner under SHS.
Q3: Can I get rebates on battery storage?
Yes—HESP covers hot water, heat pumps, and insulation. SHS loans include batteries.
Q4: What if my property’s UV value has changed?
Check your current UV via ACT Revenue before applying—must meet program thresholds
Take the Next Step Today
Prime Solar Energy simplifies your solar journey in Canberra:
- We’ll check rebate eligibility
- We’ll help book your energy workshop
- We’ll provide a clear, no-obligation solar estimate
- We implement and claim your rebates for you
Thinking about going solar in Canberra? The ACT Government is making it easier than ever with rebates and interest-free loans that significantly reduce the upfront cost of installing solar panels. If you’re eligible, you could receive thousands in support through programs aimed at helping households cut energy bills and reduce emissions. With solar panel prices becoming more affordable, it’s a smart time to invest in renewable energy. Choosing a trusted local installer ensures you get expert guidance on both the system and the available government support. For Canberra homeowners looking for quality, savings, and long-term benefits, solar is a powerful solution.
Reach out now for a free site assessment and see how much solar can save you—not in theory, but in real dollars.