Rebates are one of the biggest reasons solar and batteries are more affordable in Australia today. In 2025, both the federal government and state programs provide major support, reducing upfront costs and helping households achieve faster payback. Here is the key information every homeowner should know.
 

The Cheaper Home Batteries Program (Federal Battery Rebate)

Launched in 2025, this is the single most important rebate for battery buyers. It offers a direct discount on the purchase and installation of eligible home batteries.

• Value: Around $330 per usable kWh of battery capacity (after admin fees)

• Example: A 10 kWh battery saves about $3,300 upfront

• Eligibility: Homes, small businesses, and community facilities

• Capacity range: 5 kWh to 100 kWh, with the rebate applying to the first 50 kWh

• Requirements: Must be an approved product installed by an accredited installer, and must be capable of Virtual Power Plant (VPP) connection

• Timeline: Program runs until 2030, with the rebate amount stepping down slightly each year
   

This program makes batteries affordable for many more Australians, and when combined with state incentives or VPP offers, the savings can be significant.
 

Federal Solar Rebate (SRES)

For solar panels, the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) continues to provide strong savings. Instead of cash, households receive Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), which installers apply directly to reduce your upfront cost.

• Worth around $300–$600 per kW in 2025

• A 6.6 kW system may save over $3,000

• Applies to systems under 100 kW installed by accredited professionals

• Phasing out gradually each year until the scheme ends in 2030
   

State Rebates and Programs

On top of the federal schemes, each state offers its own rebates or incentives.

• NSW: Up to $2,400 for batteries through the Peak Demand Reduction Scheme, plus loans up to $14,000 under Empowering Homes. Extra support for apartments and VPP-ready systems.

• VIC: Solar Homes Program provides $1,400 for panels and up to $8,800 in interest-free loans for batteries. Apartments can receive rebates of up to $2,800 per unit.

• QLD: Battery Booster rebates have closed, but some local council incentives may apply.

• SA: The Home Battery Scheme has closed, though VPP participation may still provide extra credits.

• ACT: Sustainable Household Scheme offers zero-interest loans of up to $15,000 for solar, batteries, and EV chargers.

• WA: Distributed Energy Buyback Scheme (DEBS) pays up to 10c per kWh for solar exports. Switch Your Thinking provides local product discounts.

• NT: Home and Business Battery Scheme provides up to $5,000 for eligible battery installs, plus up to $7,500 for shared apartment solar systems.
   

Feed-in Tariffs (FiTs)

Feed-in tariffs pay you for energy exported back to the grid. Rates vary, but are generally lower than the value of using your own solar power.

• NSW: 5–12c per kWh

• VIC: Minimum 6.7c per kWh

• QLD: 3–10c per kWh

• SA: 3–5c per kWh

• WA: 10c peak, 3c off-peak

• NT: Varies by provider
   

Why Act Now?

Both solar and battery rebates reduce each year until 2030. Installing earlier secures maximum savings and ensures your system pays for itself faster. The Cheaper Home Batteries Program in particular has opened the door for many Australians to finally pair solar with storage, creating real energy independence.

At Smart Energy Market, we make rebates simple. With clear information and trusted installers, you can combine federal, state, and local programs to get the best deal possible.