Expansion of solar photovoltaic (PV) eligibility under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme
On 5 August 2026, the Australian Government announced changes to solar photovoltaic (PV) eligibility under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).
The government intends for the SRES changes to apply to mid-scale solar installed from 1 October 2026, subject to regulations being in place.
Under the proposed arrangements, solar PV systems with a total onsite capacity between 100 kilowatts (kW) and 1 megawatt (MW) will be eligible to create small-scale technology certificates (STCs). Previously, systems larger than 100 kW were only eligible for large-scale generation certificates (LGCs).
The changes intend to support larger solar PV system installations, including by commercial, industrial and agricultural facilities, helping to accelerate carbon abatement through increased renewable electricity generation.
The Australian Government is considering additional design, installation and compliance requirements for mid-scale solar PV installations. We will publish information regarding commencement dates and eligibility requirements before the changes take effect.
Existing accredited large-scale systems will remain under current Large-scale Renewable Energy Target (LRET) arrangements and continue to be eligible to create LGCs. Existing arrangements for systems smaller than 100 kW under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme will not be affected by the changes.
More information is available on the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water's website.
Regards,
REC Registry
