What Is the $7,000 Solar Rebate?
The "$7,000 solar rebate" originally referred to the NSW Empowering Homes program, which closed in 2024. But Australians can still save $7,000 or more in 2026 by combining federal and state incentives. Here's exactly how.
The Original $7,000 Rebate (Now Closed)
NSW Empowering Homes Program
Closed 2024The NSW Government's Empowering Homes program offered interest-free loans of up to $14,000 for solar and battery systems, with the effective subsidy value around $7,000. It specifically targeted owner-occupiers with household incomes under $180,000.
The related Rebate Swap for Solar initiative allowed eligible low-income families to swap their Low Income Household Rebate for solar panels. Both programs have now ended.
Scam alert: If a solar company tells you they can get you the "NSW $7,000 solar rebate" as a single government payment in 2026, this is misleading. The Empowering Homes program is closed. Legitimate savings come from stacking the federal and state programs below. Always check your installer is SAA-accredited.
How to Save $7,000+ on Solar in 2026
The original program may be gone, but the savings aren't. Here's how Australians are reaching $7,000+ in total solar and battery discounts right now.
1. Federal Solar Rebate (STCs)
Active until 2030Every solar installation in Australia receives an automatic point-of-sale discount through Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). The amount depends on your system size and location.
2. Cheaper Home Batteries Program
Active — $7.2B fundedThe federal battery rebate provides approximately 30% off eligible battery systems. For larger batteries installed before May 2026, savings can reach $7,000+ on the battery alone.
3. State-Specific Incentives
Varies by stateSeveral states add their own incentives on top of federal programs, making $7,000+ even easier to reach.
Example: Reaching $7,000+ by State
NSW
Victoria
South Australia
Calculate Your Total Solar Savings
Find out exactly how much you can save based on your state, system size, and whether you're adding a battery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the $7,000 solar rebate?
The "$7,000 solar rebate" most commonly refers to the NSW Empowering Homes program, which offered interest-free loans of up to $14,000 for solar and battery systems. The effective subsidy value was around $7,000. This program closed in 2024. The term is also used loosely to describe the total savings achievable by combining federal STCs on a larger system with battery rebates.
Is the $7,000 solar rebate still available in 2026?
The original NSW Empowering Homes program is no longer available. However, you can still save $7,000 or more in 2026 by combining the federal STC rebate (e.g. $3,200-$3,600 for a 10kW system), the Cheaper Home Batteries Program (~$3,300 for 10kWh), and state-specific VPP incentives. The total can exceed $7,000 depending on your system size and state.
How do I get $7,000 off solar panels in 2026?
Install a larger solar system (10kW+) to maximise your STC rebate ($3,200-$3,600 in Zone 3), add a battery to access the federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program (~$3,300 for 10kWh), and check if your state offers additional incentives like VPP programs. In Victoria, adding the $1,400 state rebate makes $7,000+ easily achievable even with a 6.6kW system.
Which states can get $7,000+ in solar savings?
All Australian states can reach $7,000+ in combined solar and battery savings in 2026. Victoria is easiest thanks to the $1,400 state rebate. South Australia offers the $2,050 REPS VPP incentive. Queensland and NT have the highest STC values (Zones 1-3). NSW and other states rely on stacking federal STCs with battery rebates.
Is the $7,000 solar rebate a scam?
The rebate itself is not a scam — real government programs existed and current programs can deliver $7,000+ in savings. However, be wary of companies advertising a "$7,000 government rebate" as if it is a single payment. The old NSW program is closed, and current savings come from stacking multiple programs. Always verify your installer is SAA-accredited and get multiple quotes.
What replaced the NSW Empowering Homes program?
NSW no longer has a state-specific solar rebate. It was replaced by expanded federal programs: the STC scheme (ongoing until 2030) and the Cheaper Home Batteries Program (launched July 2025). NSW also has the Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS) VPP incentive worth up to $1,500 for battery owners.
Can I get the $7,000 rebate on solar panels alone (no battery)?
For solar panels only, the federal STC rebate on a standard 6.6kW system is $1,600-$2,800 depending on your zone — not $7,000. To reach $7,000 with panels alone, you would need a very large system (15kW+). Most people reach the $7,000 figure by combining a solar system with a battery.