Small scale renewable energy generation generally refers to systems deployed by individuals and small businesses, such as solar panel systems, small-scale wind and hydro systems, solar water heaters and air source heat pumps.
The South Australian Government supported the development of the rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) industry by implementing the nation’s first feed-in tariff legislation in 2008. The tariff is now closed to new entrants, however, the cost to purchase an eligible solar PV system is subsidised by small-scale technology certificates.
Electricity retailers may offer feed-in tariffs for any excess electricity generated and exported to the grid. Contact your energy retailer for more information about feed-in tariffs.
Household energy storage systems are also available to small-scale energy producers. Find out more about small-scale energy generation and storage.
The Energy Advisory Service can be contacted for general information about installing solar panels or battery storage and the Office of the Technical Regulator can be contacted regarding safety concerns about a solar or battery installation.
Some local government organisations offer rebates for small scale generation and battery storage, contact your local council for more information.