Consumer rebate schemes
Rebate and incentive programs are available to households to help reduce the upfront cost of installing solar panels, batteries, and other clean energy solutions. This section includes information on the national and state-based consumer rebate schemes to help make informed decisions.
National Programs (Australia-wide)
Cheaper Home Batteries Program
Eligible households, businesses and community organisations can receive a discount on the upfront cost of installing a small-scale battery system, with eligible systems ranging from 5 kWh to 100 kWh. Participating installers must be accredited with Solar Accreditation Australia. Find out more here.
Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme
Households and small businesses that install a small-scale renewable energy system can receive a discount on the cost of rooftop solar system. Participating installers must be accredited with Solar Accreditation Australia to apply for the small-scale technology certificate (STC) benefit. Find out more here.
State programs
Batteries for apartment buildings incentive (New South Wales)
This incentive is applied as an upfront discount on the quoted cost of installing a new battery at your apartment building. A higher discount is available when a new battery is installed together with additional solar capacity. Find out more here.
Solar Homes Program (Victoria)
Eligible households can reduce the cost of switching to clean energy by offering solar panel (PV) rebates, interest-free loans, and hot water rebates. The program is designed to make renewable energy more accessible and lower energy bills. Participating installers must be accredited with Solar Accreditation Australia. Find out more here.
Supercharged Solar for Renters (Queensland)
The program offers eligible landlords a rebate of up to $3,500 to install solar systems on rental properties, helping renters save on electricity bills, depending on their location and the size of the solar system installed. Find out more here.
Solar Sharer Offer (New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia)
Eligible households can receive 3 hours of free electricity every day through a regulated energy offer. Designed to make the most of abundant daytime solar energy, the offer is available even if you don’t have your own rooftop solar system. Find out more here.
Consumers are encouraged to examine how solar sharer compares with other market offers that are available.
Other rebate programs
CEFC Household Energy Upgrades Fund
The Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) offers low interest loans to eligible consumers through programs with co-financiers. The loans can be used to help install and upgrade homes with solar, batteries and energy efficient electric appliances including heat pumps, induction cooktops, air conditioning and EV chargers. Find out more here.
Community solar banks
Available to people who can’t install solar systems on their own, this program may be available to people living in apartments or renting their homes. Find out more here.
Other useful links:
Renewable Technologies
Renewable energy technology, such as solar and battery systems, help Australians reduce their energy costs, lower their environmental impact and take greater control of their electricity use.
There are renewable energy solutions to suit individual needs – from powering your home with solar energy, to storing excess electricity in a battery, to living independently from the grid.
Solar Energy
Solar energy is generated by the solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, capturing sunlight and converting it to electricity for use in a home or business.
A typical solar power system includes solar panels and an inverter, that converts the electricity into a form that can be used by household appliances. Any excess energy generated may be exported to the electricity grid or stored in a battery for later use.
Before investing in a solar system, it is important to understand your household’s energy needs and the suitability of your property. Read the federal government’s Solar Consumer Guide for more information.
Types of Renewable Energy Systems
Grid connected solar system
This system connects solar panels directly to a household’s electricity network. The electricity generated is used to power the home during the day, and any surplus electricity is sent back to the grid.
Grid connected battery system
A grid connected battery system captures and stores surplus electricity produced by solar panels. The stored energy is available for use when solar generation is low, including at night or during peak demand periods.
Standalone power system
A standalone power system operates independently of the electricity grid. They typically combine solar panels, battery storage and a backup power source to provide reliable electricity in locations without a grid connection.
Virtual power plant
Households installing a home battery may consider joining a virtual power plant (VPP). By exporting stored energy to the grid through a VPP, households may be able to earn additional income and reduce electricity bills.
Find out more about VPP:
Virtual power plants | Clean Energy Regulator
Virtual power plants: How much money can they save you on electricity bills?