Victorian businesses, councils, and community organisations can now access significant upfront discounts on 30–200 kW solar PV systems through the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program. This new deemed activity commenced on 29 September 2025, providing eligible non-residential sites with rebates worth tens of thousands of dollars. With energy costs rising and emissions reduction targets in focus, the program makes commercial and industrial (C&I) solar more accessible across Victoria.
For homeowners see our comprehensive to residential Solar Rebates in Victoria.
At a Glance: Key Facts
- System size: 30–200 kW PV module capacity (array size, not inverter size)
- Eligible sites: Non-residential premises such as local government buildings, schools, hospitals, aged care, warehouses, factories, offices, NGOs, sports facilities
- Incentive value: Indicative discounts up to ~$34,300 for 200 kW systems (based on $70/VEEC). Actual value depends on certificate prices
- Stackable incentives: STCs (≤100 kW) or LGCs (100–200 kW) may apply in addition to VEECs
- Requirements:
- Minimum inverter capacity of 30 kVA
- One system per National Meter Identifier (NMI)
- DNSP negotiated connection contract required
- Must include end-user accessible monitoring portal
- Solar panels and inverters must be CEC-approved
- Warranty minimums: 10 years for panels, 5 years for inverters
- Systems <100 kW must use panels listed under the Solar Panel Validation (SPV) Initiative
- Exclusions: Residential premises and apartments (covered by other programs)
- >200 kW systems: Continue under Project-Based Activities (PBA) pathway
For more see the: Essential Services Commission – VEU & energy.gov.au – VEU for Business
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Who’s Eligible?
All non-residential premises in Victoria can apply, including:
- Local government buildings
- Schools, universities, and hospitals
- Aged care facilities
- Warehouses, retail centres, and offices
- Community halls, sports facilities, NGOs
Product and Installation Rules
Systems must be installed by an accredited VEU provider and meet strict technical standards:
- Solar modules and inverters must be on the Clean Energy Council’s approved lists
- For systems <100 kW, panels must also be on the SPV Initiative list
- Warranties: 10 years (panels), 5 years (inverters)
- A monitoring portal must be provided to end users
- One eligible system per NMI
- Compliance with DNSP negotiated connection contracts
VEECs, STCs, and LGCs Explained
- VEECs: Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates. New deemed activity allows businesses to claim upfront discounts based on expected energy savings from 30–200 kW PV systems.
- STCs: Federal Small-scale Technology Certificates (≤100 kW). Provide additional upfront value under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme.
- LGCs: Federal Large-scale Generation Certificates (100–200 kW). Generated annually over the system lifetime under the Renewable Energy Target.
Installers manage certificate creation, and businesses receive the benefit as an upfront discount on installation costs.
How Much Discount to Expect
The value of VEECs changes with the certificate market. Government guidance provides indicative values based on $70/VEEC:
| System Size | Indicative Discount (at $70/VEEC) |
|---|---|
| 30 kW | $2,800 |
| 50 kW | $4,550 |
| 75 kW | $6,860 |
| 100 kW | $9,100 |
| 150 kW | $25,760 |
| 200 kW | $34,300 |
(Source: Energy Victoria – Business Solar Discounts)
These discounts are indicative only. Final rebate values depend on the VEEC spot price, installer pricing, and whether STCs or LGCs also apply.
Example Payback Scenarios
A 100 kW system on a warehouse with strong daytime load may cost ~$100,000 before incentives. After VEEC discounts (~$9,100 at $70/VEEC) and STCs (~$40,000), net cost may fall to ~$51,000. With typical annual savings of ~$25,000 (assuming $0.25/kWh tariff and 80% self-consumption), payback could be around 2–3 years. Actual payback depends heavily on tariffs, consumption profile, and certificate prices.
Design and Sizing Considerations
- Roof space: A 100 kW system requires ~450–600 m² of usable roof area
- Connection approvals: All systems ≥30 kW need DNSP approval. Export limits may apply
- Load profile: Best returns come from high daytime consumption
- Future-proofing: Consider upcoming electrification (EV charging, hot water, heat pumps, process loads)
For businesses adding EV charging, see EV charging for businesses.
Timeline and Process
- Site assessment with an accredited provider
- DNSP negotiated connection approval
- System design and contract
- Installation by licensed, accredited electricians
- Certificate creation (VEECs, STCs, LGCs) handled by provider
- Discount applied upfront
Risks and Fine Print
- One system per NMI rule applies
- VEEC prices are market-based and can fluctuate
- Only accredited providers with strong compliance records can participate
- Residential premises are excluded
- Export limits or DNSP restrictions may reduce system effectiveness
FAQs
Can new commercial builds apply? Yes, new builds are eligible if they meet program requirements.
Can I claim both STCs and VEECs? Systems ≤100 kW may be eligible for both, but rules prevent double-counting. Your installer will confirm.
What about systems over 200 kW? Larger projects are supported through Project-Based Activities (PBAs) under the VEU program.
Are batteries included? Batteries are not part of this program, but the separate Cheaper Home Batteries Program offers discounts up to 100 kWh.
Where do I find accredited providers? See the Essential Services Commission accredited provider register.
Next Steps
Before committing, ensure:
- Your installer is VEU-accredited
- DNSP approvals are secured
- Warranties and monitoring are included
- System design matches your consumption profile
Compare commercial solar pricing to benchmark costs or explore our commercial solar hub for more guidance.
Request a free solar business case and compare leading commercial installers
- Rohan Smith | Chargefox: Inside the Software Powering Australia’s Public EV Charging - 20 October, 2025
- Victorian Commercial Solar Rebates | Business Discounts for 30–200 kW Systems - 3 October, 2025
- Scott Carden | The NRMA: Building Australia’s EV Charging Backbone - 1 October, 2025
