With Scott Morrison to continue at Australia’s helm, what now for solar energy? Is Australia’s popular solar rebate again threatened?

While the post-mortem of Labor’s loss will be debated for some time, e.g. the “ Adani factor” in Queensland, the reality is Prime Minister Morrison, ScoMo, Scooter – however, you wish to reference him – is all set to lead the country again until the next election assuming PM hot-desking has ended.

There was very little in the way of election commitments regarding solar power from the Liberals and as for addressing climate change going forward – don’t expect a road to Damascus moment for the foreseeable future.

What About The Solar Rebate?

Australia’s major solar power subsidy (aka the solar rebate), while being gradually phased out, can still knock thousands off the cost of acquiring a system. The subsidy operates under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).

Back in October last year, Federal Minister for Energy Angus Taylor indicated the SRES will be maintained and not changed1.

Thankfully, governments are totally trustworthy, have amazing memories and never backflip. But with one politician in particular now thrust out into the cold, the unmolested continuation of the solar rebate could be a commitment that is a little easier to keep.

After 25 years of holding the seat of Warringah in his iron fist – which he also used to squeeze the testicles of Australia’s solar power sector  – Tony Abbott was bested by independent Zali Steggall; who campaigned heavily on real action on climate change.

So, with Mr. Abbott gone2, that’s one less MP of any note/notoriety squawking about prematurely axing a successful scheme that supports thousands of jobs, helps Australians take control over their energy costs, reduces emissions, and is gradually being phased out anyway.