Tell us about your home in a quick call or form, and we’ll confirm your rebates and savings.
Step 2: Fixed, Fully Itemised Quote
You get a clear quote with all costs and rebates deducted upfront—no hidden fees.
Step 3: Clean, Professional Installation
Our licensed installers arrive and complete the install to high standards.
Step 4: Ongoing Support & Warranty Care
We stay available after installation to handle warranties, questions, and support.
What Are Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs)?
STCs are part of Australia’s Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).
When you install an eligible renewable energy system—most commonly solar panels—the system is expected to generate clean energy over time. That future clean energy is converted into certificates, called STCs.
Each STC has a real dollar value. That value is used to discount your solar system upfront.
In short: STCs make solar more affordable from day one.
[why us]
Why Choose Smart Upgrades for Your Energy Efficient Upgrades?
Modern systems use far less energy—meaning lower heating, cooling, hot water, or lighting costs every month.
Upgrades like heat pumps and energy-saving lighting help Victoria lower its greenhouse gas emissions — a key part of state-wide climate goals.
No income tests. No paperwork. No surprises.
We check eligibility, apply the rebate upfront, and show your final fixed price before you commit.
We optimize supply chains end to end—cutting waste and building systems that move faster, cleaner, and smarter. Our team works across logistics and procurement to transform fragmented operations into streamlined, scalable ecosystems.
Eligibility for Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs)
You may be eligible for Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs) if you’re installing an approved renewable energy system—most commonly solar panels—that meets Federal Government requirements.
The system is installed in Australia
The system is new (not second-hand)
The system is installed by a CEC-accredited installer
The equipment is Clean Energy Council (CEC) approved
The system size is 100kW or less (most homes are well under this)
The installation complies with all Federal scheme rules
[SOLUTIONS]
What Products Qualify for the Federal SCTs Program?
Quality systems that meet VEU and Federal requirements.
Trusted by 1000+ Melbourne families and businesses for reliable, energy-efficient solutions.
[Help & Support]
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers about rebates, eligibility, pricing, and what to expect—no surprises.
STCs are Federal Government certificates that reduce the upfront cost of installing eligible renewable energy systems—most commonly solar panels. Their value is applied as a discount upfront, not a rebate you claim later.
Your solar system is expected to generate clean energy over time. That future energy is converted into STCs, which have a real dollar value. We apply that value directly to your quote, lowering what you pay before installation.
STCs mainly apply to: 1. Solar panel systems (residential and small commercial) 2. Solar + battery systems (STCs apply to the solar component only)
Some solar hot water and specific heat pump systems may qualify in limited cases.
No. STCs do not apply to batteries. Batteries may be supported by separate Federal or state programs, which are shown separately on your quote.
The number of STCs depends on:
System size (kW)
Location
Year of installation
Approved equipment and design
That’s why STC savings vary from home to home.
No. STCs are not cashback. They are an upfront discount applied to your system price.
Yes. STCs are traded on a market, so their value can change. This is why transparent quotes should always show the exact STC value applied at the time of quoting.
STCs can only be claimed when:
The system is new
The equipment is Clean Energy Council (CEC) approved
Installation is done by a CEC-accredited installer
The system complies with Federal rules
No. We handle the STC calculations, compliance, and claims. You simply review the final discounted price and decide.
[Think Smart. Save Big.]
Ready to Unlock Your STC Discount?
Book a free assessment and see your exact STC value and final price—no pressure to proceed.
Smart Upgrades helps Melbourne homeowners and businesses save on energy with government-backed upgrades, including VEU heating and cooling, solar panels, batteries, hot water systems, and LED lighting. Fixed pricing, licensed local installers, and real rebates.
