CER SRES Registered Agent Obligations and STC Re-Assignment Rules

Key Takeaways

• Registered agents incur a 47c creation fee per STC (August 2026).
• Evidence supporting STC creation must be retained for at least 5 years (August 2026).
• Improper STC creation must be reported within 72 hours (August 2026).
• System owners can re-assign STC creation rights to a new agent if a claim fails.

Understanding Registered Agent Obligations under the SRES

The Clean Energy Regulator (CER) sets out specific obligations for registered agents participating in the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). These rules ensure compliance and maintain the integrity of the STC creation process. We checked these rules on 23 August 2026.

STC Creation Fees

Registered agents are subject to creation fees. You will pay creation fees of 47c per created STC if you are assigned the right to create STCs.

Evidence Retention Mandate

Registered agents must maintain thorough records. You must keep evidence supporting every STC created for at least 5 years. This ensures that claims can be verified if audited.

Reporting Improper STC Creation

To maintain scheme integrity, agents have a reporting obligation. You must have documented procedures to report improper STC creation within 72 hours.

Re-Assignment of STC Creation Rights

The process for assigning and re-assigning STC creation rights is specific. The system owner can only assign the right to one agent at a time.

If you, as an agent, refuse an assignment, you must let the owner know in writing. If an STC claim fails or is refused, the owner can then assign the rights to a new agent. The new agent must be told the reason for the failed claim in writing.

Offence for False or Misleading Information

Providing false and misleading information to create certificates is an offence under Section 24 of the Renewable Energy (Electricity) Act 2000. This provision underscores the importance of accurate and truthful submissions.

Separate Claims for Solar PV and Battery Systems

When installing both solar PV and battery systems, specific claim procedures apply. The solar PV and solar battery forms are separate. You must submit a separate claim for each system when installed together. Always submit your solar PV claim first to avoid processing delays.

Related CER Guides

For commercial safeguards for solar companies, see our CER SRES Commercial Protections for Installers and Retailers Guide. To understand agent onboarding, see our CER SRES Registered Agent Application Guide and CER SRES STC Creation Evidence Guide. Before submitting certificate claims, calculate eligible STCs with our solar sizing tool.