CER SRES Registered Agent Application and STC Trading Rules: A Guide

Key Takeaways

• You must apply to become a registered agent under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).
• A statutory registration fee of $230 is required before you can create certificates.
• Application assessment can take up to 6 weeks.
• Completion of the SRES Smart course in the Client Portal is a mandatory prerequisite.

Becoming a Clean Energy Regulator SRES Registered Agent

To participate in the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) as a registered agent, you must apply to the Clean Energy Regulator (CER). This accreditation allows you to create, buy, and sell Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). We checked the CER's requirements on 23 August 2026.

The process begins by accessing the CER's Client Portal via Online Services. Before submitting your application, you must complete the mandatory SRES Smart training course within this portal. As part of the application, you will need to declare your status as a "fit and proper person."

The Clean Energy Regulator states that assessing your application can take up to 6 weeks. Once approved, a statutory registration fee of $230 is required. You must pay this fee before you can create certificates in the REC Registry.

If you intend to participate in the STC clearing house, you will also need to provide your bank account information during the application process. As a registered agent, you can create users within your account and assign them permissions to perform functions in the REC Registry.

Key Requirements for SRES Registered Agents

The Clean Energy Regulator outlines specific requirements for those seeking to become registered agents:

• Mandatory Application: You must formally apply to become a registered agent.
• Client Portal Access: The application process, including training, is managed through the CER's Client Portal.
• SRES Smart Course: Completion of the SRES Smart course is a prerequisite.
• Fit and Proper Person Declaration: Applicants must declare their status as a fit and proper person.
• Application Assessment Time: The CER advises that application assessment can take up to 6 weeks.
• Statutory Fee: A fee of $230 is payable.
• Pre-Creation Fee Payment: This fee must be paid before you can create any certificates.
• STC Clearing House: If you are applying for an STC clearing house account, you will need to provide your bank account information.
• Trading Authority: Registered agents are authorised to buy and sell STCs.
• User Management: You can create users in your account and provide them with permissions to perform functions in the REC Registry.

These provisions ensure that registered agents understand their obligations and operate within the scheme's rules.

Related Scheme Compliance Guides

For technical evidence rules when claiming certificates, see our Clean Energy Regulator STC Creation Evidence Guide. You can also review retailer obligations in our CER SRES Solar Retailer Written Statement Guide and certificate calculations in our CER SRES STC Calculation and Agent Assignment Guide. Before applying, assess your project requirements with our solar sizing tool.