More Victorian apartment buildings can now access the Solar for Apartments rebate, after Solar Victoria expanded the eligibility criteria by removing a key eligibility cap and introducing a new exemption pathway.
The changes include:
Property value cap removed. The median capital value threshold that previously ruled some buildings out no longer applies. Modelling estimates this will bring roughly 100 additional buildings, and around 2,000 additional residents, into eligibility.
New exemption pathway. Buildings taller than 8 storeys, or with between 50 and 150 lots, can now apply for an exemption if they meet all other program criteria.
Up to 20% of solar generation can be allocated to common areas for shared solar systems. This will give owners corporations more flexibility to maximise the benefits of solar while continuing to deliver savings to residents.
Eligible apartment buildings can access rebates of up to $2,800 per apartment (up to $140,000 per building), helping reduce the upfront cost by an average of 74%. Applications open until 30 June 2027 or until funding is exhausted.
"This decision to expand who is eligible for the Solar for Apartments rebate in Victoria stands to make a real impact for thousands of apartment residents, allowing more owners and renters to make the most of renewable and affordable energy to reduce their bills," said Cameron Knox, Allume CEO and Co-founder. "We've seen that on average, apartments with solar are saving roughly $380 a year, while those installing solar and a battery can save up to roughly $756 a year."
Ready to explore shared solar for your apartment building?
If your building missed out under the old criteria, it's worth checking your eligibility again.