Australia has the highest installation rates in the world for rooftop solar, but only a small number of homes store the energy they generate. Starting on July 1, 2025, the Federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program was implemented, reducing the cost of qualified batteries by approximately 30%. This means that each system can save up to $17,000 or about $340 per usable kWh.
Combine this historic battery refund with record low battery prices, existing panel incentives and a range of state programs and you have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to lower your expenses, become more self-sufficient and protect your home from future energy price rises. Winki Energy provides you with all the information you need below and invites you to book a complimentary consultation to ensure you receive your benefits before demand increases.
An Overview of Federal Solar Rebates
Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme (STCs)
The STC “solar panel rebate” has been around for a long time and is still available for installations up to 100 kW. Each certificate (now worth ~$38) reduces the installation cost. A typical 6.6 kW array in Melbourne receives about 46 STCs, which reduces the price by approximately $1748. A 13.3kW Solar array would receive a discount of approximately $3572 off the price of the system. This rebate drops approximately 4-5% each calendar year.
Cheaper Home Batteries Program (from 1 July 2025)
- Discount: about 30% off the cost of the battery and installation (this amount drops approximately 10% every calendar until 2030)
- Value benchmark: approximately $340 per usable kWh, with a limit up to 50kWh which is $17,000
- Capacity range: 5 kWh – 100 kWh, new or retrofit to existing solar (Rebate only applicable for up to 50kWh if part of a system up to 100kWh)
- Eligibility: Homes, small businesses and community facilities; no means-test; Clean Energy Council-approved products; one claim per premises. Must have solar attached to the system, existing or a new system.
- Scheme size: The scheme is valued at $2.3 billion and aims to procure 1 million batteries by 2030.
You can stack the battery rebate with the STC framework when you install a solar system and battery storage together. This cuts payback timelines to as little as 3-4 years for some homes.
State-Based Top-Ups You Shouldn’t Miss
| State/Territory | 2025 Incentive Snapshot* | Can It Combine with Federal Battery Rebate? |
| Victoria | Solar Homes Program: up to $1,400 for panels plus an interest-free loan of the same amount; separate battery loans available. | Yes |
| New South Wales | New battery discounts from November 1 2024; existing scheme closes once Federal rebate starts on July 1 2025 and transitions to the national program. | Federal rebate replaces state discount for batteries after July 2025 |
| Queensland | Occasional battery and energy-efficiency rebates (e.g., Climate Smart Energy Savers); keep an eye out for refreshed funding rounds. | Usually yes, if still offered |
| South Australia | SA Home Battery Scheme has closed, but virtual power plant programs and feed-in tariffs remain attractive. | N/A |
| Other states & territories | Feed-in tariffs and targeted loans or grants vary upon checking local government pages or ask Winki. | Case-by-case |
*Figures current as of July 2025, programs may change without notice.
Why Act Now?
- Every year, the value of rebates goes down. The Federal battery discount decreases every year until 2030, so people who buy them early receive the best deal.
- Prices on the grid are going up. The cost of electricity at wholesale prices is still unstable. Storing solar energy during the day protects you against peak-time rates.
- Lower feed-in tariffs. For example, Victoria’s premium 60c/kWh tariff ended last November, which will lower export earnings and increase the value of self-consumption.
- Limited stock. Demand is projected to skyrocket, putting a strain on battery supply chains and installer schedules. To make sure you get the gear and pricing you want, book early.
How Much Can You Save?
Let’s do a simple example. If you install a 13.5 kWh battery for $16,000, you may be eligible for a Federal rebate of approximately $4,590 (13.5 kWh × $340), which would reduce the total cost to $11,410. When you factor in the usual STC savings on a new 6.6 kW solar array (approximately $1748), the total cost decreases to $9,662, which is a 40% off the retail price.
You can save an average of $2,000 to $2,500 per year on your bills and after around four years, you’ll have mostly free electricity for the battery’s lifespan which is warranted for 10 years and is expected to continue working past this date, with some degradation.
Eligibility Checklist
- The property is an Australian residence, small business, or community place.
- Solar panels are put on the roof (or put on at the same time)
- The battery can hold between 5 kWh and 100 kWh of energy.
- The Clean Energy Council has authorised the product.
- The installer has SAA Battery installation accreditation.
- Battery or inverter must be VPP capable
Check all the boxes? You’re ready to apply.
Winki Energy: Your Trusted Solar Rebate Partner
Getting the right system is just as crucial as getting the rebate. Winki Energy gives:
- Design and implementation from start to finish by certified professionals
- We handle the paperwork for you regarding rebates.
- Solar bundles that are ready for batteries and designed to save the most STC and batteries
- Transparent pricing with itemised rebate deductions
- Monitoring and assistance after the sale to keep your system running
To ensure you’re eligible and reserve stock before the rush, book your free consultation at winkienergy.com.au/contact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the battery rebate end?
Not until 2030. The Cheaper Home Batteries Program is not limited like some state programs, thus every qualifying installation can claim.
If I already have solar, can I still get it?
Yes, you can add a battery to an existing PV system, as long as the battery fits the capacity and product list requirements.
Is it still possible to collect state rebates?
Yes, in many circumstances. For example, Victoria’s panel rebate and loan work well with the Federal battery discount. From July 2025, NSW will add its program to the Federal program. Always check the regulations or ask Winki.
Will the refund change my feed-in tariff?
No. Your retailer and regulator set your FiT rate. Adding a battery allows you to choose whether to export the energy or use it yourself.
Take Control of Your Energy Future
The 2025 Solar Rebates landscape is the best deal Australia has ever had. Winki Energy can help you get Federal and state benefits, lower your upfront costs by thousands of dollars and protect your home from escalating power bills, whether you’re putting up panels for the first time or adding storage to an existing array.
Are you ready to start? Contact Winki Energy today to get smarter power for your house.
