Australian businesses will soon benefit from one of the biggest changes to commercial solar incentives in recent years, following the Federal Government’s announcement to significantly expand the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).
The proposed changes are designed to unlock what the renewable energy industry has long referred to as the “missing middle” – medium-sized commercial and industrial solar installations that have traditionally received less support than residential systems or large-scale renewable projects.
For businesses across Australia, this could mean substantially lower upfront installation costs and a much stronger financial case for investing in commercial solar.
What is changing?
Under the proposed expansion, systems up to 1 megawatt (MW) would become eligible for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), a significant increase from the current 100kW limit. This is expected to reduce installation costs for many commercial projects, making larger systems far more accessible for Australian businesses.
The changes are expected to benefit a wide range of organisations, including:
- Warehouses and distribution centres
- Manufacturing facilities
- Farms and agricultural businesses
- Schools and education facilities
- Shopping centres
- Commercial office buildings
- Hotels and hospitality venues
- Community organisations
Why this matters
Energy remains one of the largest operating expenses for many Australian businesses.
With electricity prices continuing to fluctuate, commercial solar offers businesses greater control over their long-term energy costs while reducing reliance on the grid.
By lowering the upfront investment required, the expanded scheme is expected to make larger commercial solar systems financially viable for many businesses that may previously have delayed their investment. Depending on the size of the installation, businesses could achieve substantial upfront savings while continuing to benefit from lower electricity bills for many years to come.
A major opportunity for Australian business
Australia has led the world in residential rooftop solar adoption, but commercial rooftop space remains largely underutilised. Warehouses, factories, retail centres and industrial facilities often have expansive roof areas capable of generating significant amounts of clean electricity.
The proposed expansion of the SRES has the potential to accelerate commercial solar adoption across the country, helping businesses improve profitability while supporting Australia’s transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy.
How RESINC can help
Commercial solar is one of RESINC Solar & Batteries’ core areas of expertise.
From warehouses and manufacturing facilities to schools, farms and large commercial developments, our experienced team designs and installs tailored commercial solar solutions that maximise return on investment while delivering reliable, long-term performance.
If your business has been considering commercial solar, these proposed changes could significantly improve the financial return on your investment.
Now is an ideal time to start planning. The RESINC commercial team can assess your site, estimate your potential savings and help you prepare to take advantage of the expanded incentive scheme should it proceed.
Contact RESINC Solar & Batteries today to discuss how commercial solar can help reduce your operating costs and future-proof your business.