Solar Battery Rebate

Launched on July 1st 2025, the Solar Battery Rebate, officially titled the Cheaper Home Batteries Program, is a new federal government initiative aimed at accelerating the uptake of battery storage systems in Australian homes. The program provides an upfront discount of approximately 30% on the cost of eligible solar battery systems. This subsidy is administered through the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), helping to make home energy storage more affordable for households across the country.

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How does the rebate work?

The rebate is applied at the point of sale by approved installers, reducing the upfront cost to consumers. Households purchasing eligible battery systems will receive a discount based on the system’s capacity (measured in kWh) and its compliance with the Clean Energy Council (CEC) standards. To qualify, systems must be installed by a CEC-accredited installer and meet minimum safety, quality and warranty requirements. The rebate is non transferable and limited to one battery system per household. 

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Why was it introduced?

The Cheaper Home Batteries Program was introduced to:

• Support Australia’s renewable energy transition by improving the integration of rooftop solar with battery storage
• Enhance grid stability and reliability by reducing peak demand and providing stored energy during high-demand periods 
• Lower electricity bills for Australian households by enabling more effective use of self-granted solar energy
• Accelerate the adoption of distributed energy resources and promote long-term  decarbonisation of the energy sector

This initiative is part of a broader government strategy to ensure that Australia’s energy infrastructure evolves in step with the country’s climate goals and increasing rooftop solar penetration.

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Which batteries are eligible for the rebate?

To qualify for the rebate, batteries must:

• Be listed on the Clean Energy Council’s approved battery product list 
• Meet Australian safety and performance standards 
• Be installed alongside a new or existing rooftop solar PV system
• Be installed by a CEC-accredited battery installer
• Have a minimum usable capacity (usually around 5 kWh or more, though specific thresholds may vary)
• Come with a minimum warranty period, typically 10 years

Only systems that are grid-connected and capable of supporting home energy use will be considered eligible. Off-grid systems or batteries used solely for backup without solar integration may not qualify.

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Benefits for using the Solar Battery Rebate

• Lower upfront costs: The rebate covers around 30% of the battery system cost, significantly reducing the initial financial burden. This makes home energy storage much more affordable and accessible for households that may have previously found it out of reach.

• Reduced electricity bills:By storing excess solar energy generated during the day, households can use that energy during the evening or during peak grid times, reducing dependence on expensive grid electricity and lowering ongoing energy bills.

• Greater energy dependence: Battery storage offers more control over household energy use. Even during grid outages or peak demand periods, homes with solar and batteries can maintain power, providing resilience and self sufficiency.

• Maximise your existing solar investment: For those who already have rooftop solar, adding a battery ensures more of the energy you generate is actually used on-site rather than exported to the grid of minimal return. This increases the value and efficiency of your solar system.

• Long-Term Savings: While there’s an upfront cost, battery systems typically last 10+ years and can deliver significant long-term financial savings, especially as electricity prices continue to rise.

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