🎯 What Is the Cheaper Home Batteries Program?

The program aims to:

💡 Maximise the value of solar energy by allowing users to store daytime generation for evening consumption

💰 Lower electricity costs for all consumers by reducing the need for gas peaker plants and expensive grid infrastructure

🌏 Support Australia’s transition to a cleaner, more reliable energy system

💰 How Much Is the Discount?

Starting from July 2025, eligible battery systems will receive up to 30% off the upfront cost, based on the system’s usable capacity (measured in kilowatt-hours, kWh). The incentive will be delivered via Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs).

¹ Based on an estimated STC value of $40. Actual market prices may vary.

🔔 Note: Discounts are capped at the first 50 kWh of usable battery capacity and will gradually reduce each year until the scheme ends in 2030.

✅ Who’s Eligible?

To qualify, installations must meet specific criteria under the expanded Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). Here’s a breakdown:

🔋 Battery System Requirements:

Nominal capacity: Between 5 kWh and 100 kWh
Usable capacity discount cap: Up to 50 kWh
Product certification: Must be listed on the Clean Energy Council (CEC) approved product list
Installation standard: Must comply with AS/NZS 5139:2019

👷 Installation Requirements:
Installed on or after 1 July 2025
Installed by, or under the onsite supervision of, a technician accredited by Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA)
Must be installed in conjunction with an existing or new solar PV system
Installation must comply with the Battery Storage Best Practice Guide

⚡ On-Grid vs Off-Grid Systems

Both on-grid and off-grid systems are eligible, with a few differences:

For On-Grid Systems:

• Must be VPP-capable (Virtual Power Plant)
• This means the system can connect to the grid and respond to third-party signals
• Requires a reliable internet connection
• Participation in a VPP is optional, but capability is mandatory

For Off-Grid Systems:

• Must be at least 1km from a grid line or cost over $30,000 to connect
• VPP capability is not required

🔁 What If I Already Have a Battery?

You may still be eligible if:

• Your existing battery has not previously received a discount under this program
• The additional capacity being added is at least 5 kWh
• The total nominal capacity of the upgraded battery remains under 100 kWh
  🛑 Important: Batteries that previously received a discount cannot receive additional rebates for upgrades.

🔍 What Consumer Protections Are in Place?

The program will include several safety and transparency requirements:

• 📜 Written statements from both the retailer and installer
  Including technical specs, estimated savings, and safety compliance
• 🔎 Inspections administered by the Clean Energy Regulator
• 📁 Full compliance with all state and territory electrical safety regulations

🔧 Planning to Install a Battery? Here’s What You Can Do Now:

Although the program starts in mid-2025, it’s not too early to start preparing:

Assess your energy needs and identify the optimal battery size
Research eligible battery systems that are listed on the CEC product list
Choose a qualified installer—at Energy Loop, our team is SAA-certified and ready to assist
Stay updated on eligibility requirements as regulations are finalised

📞 Need Expert Guidance?

At Energy Loop, we specialise in solar and battery solutions that are eligible for government incentives and built to last.

👉 Contact us today for a free consultation and discover how you can maximise your return under the Cheaper Home Batteries Program.