How Solar Households Can Maximize Government Benefits in 2025
Complete guide to federal and state solar incentives, battery rebates, and how to stack multiple programs
Key Takeaway
In 2025, Australian households can access multiple incentives for solar and batteries. By combining federal STC rebates with the new battery program and state-specific incentives, you can save $6,000 - $10,000+ on a solar and battery system.
Federal Government Programs
1. Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) - Solar Panel Rebate
The SRES remains the backbone of Australia's solar incentive system. When you install a solar system under 100kW, you generate Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) which are typically redeemed as an upfront discount on your installation.
2025 Solar Rebate Value
- •Average 6.6kW system: ~$2,400 rebate
- •The rebate reduces each year until 2030 when SRES ends
- •Act sooner to maximize your savings
2. Cheaper Home Batteries Program - Battery Rebate
From 1 July 2025, the Cheaper Home Batteries Program provides around 30% off the cost of installing a battery. This is delivered through the same STC mechanism, with the government funding additional certificates for battery installations.
Battery Rebate Value
- •Up to $372 per usable kWh (~$330 after admin fees)
- •10-13.5kWh battery: ~$3,300 - $4,000 savings
- •Can be combined with state battery incentives
3. Community Solar Banks Program
For those who can't install their own solar (renters, apartment dwellers), the Community Solar Banks Program supports shared solar installations in apartment buildings and multi-unit dwellings, helping up to 25,000 households access solar benefits.
State-by-State Incentives
New South Wales
- Empowering Homes: Interest-free loans up to $14,000 for solar-battery (income under $180,000)
- VPP Incentive: Up to $1,500 for connecting to a Virtual Power Plant
- Peak Demand Reduction Scheme ended June 2025
Victoria
- Solar Panel Rebate: Up to $1,400 for solar panels
- Solar for Rentals: $1,400 rebate for landlords
- Apartments: Up to $2,800 per apartment for shared solar
South Australia
- Concession Swap: Trade 10 years of concessions for a 4.4kW solar system
- VPP Battery Rebate: Up to $2,050 for REPS-approved VPP connection
ACT (Canberra)
- Pensioner Rebate: Up to 50% off solar (max $2,500)
- Sustainable Household Scheme: Zero-interest loans $2,000 - $15,000 for solar, battery, EV chargers
Western Australia
- DEBS Feed-in Tariff: Up to 10c/kWh (peak) for exported energy
- Plus federal battery rebate available
Northern Territory
- Highest STC Value: ~$2,200 off a 6.6kW system in Darwin
- Federal battery rebate (~30% off) available
How to Stack Multiple Incentives
The federal battery rebate was designed to be "stackable" with state programs. Here's how to maximize your savings:
Example: Maximum Savings in Victoria
Tips to Maximize Your Benefits
Act in 2025
Both the solar STC rebate and battery rebate reduce each year. Acting now maximizes your savings before reductions kick in.
Combine Solar + Battery
Installing both solar and battery together qualifies you for both rebate programs and is often more cost-effective than separate installations.
Check State Programs
Research your state's specific incentives. Many can be stacked with federal programs for additional savings.
Maximize Self-Consumption
Greater savings come from using your own solar power rather than exporting it. A battery helps you use more of what you generate.
Why Act Now?
Time-Sensitive Incentives
- •The SRES solar rebate decreases annually and ends completely in 2030
- •Battery rebate will decline faster from May 2026 (every 6 months instead of annually)
- •State programs frequently change or end (e.g., NSW PDRS ended June 2025)
- •Electricity prices continue to rise, making solar+battery more valuable over time
Let Us Help You Maximize Your Savings
As experts in Australian solar incentives, we'll help you navigate all available rebates and ensure you get the maximum benefit. Free consultation, no obligation.
More Information
For official government information about solar rebates and incentives:
Visit Energy.gov.au