Federal Solar & Battery Rebates
The Australian Government offers two main programs to reduce the cost of solar and batteries: Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) for solar panels, and the Cheaper Home Batteries Program for battery storage.
Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs)
STCs are the main federal incentive for solar panels. When you install a solar system, you earn certificates based on how much renewable energy your system will generate over its lifetime. These are typically assigned to your installer, who gives you an instant discount on your system price.
STC Zones & Rebate Examples
Australia is divided into zones based on solar irradiance. Higher zone ratings mean more STCs and bigger rebates.
Battery Rebate Tiers (from May 2026)
The rebate structure changes in May 2026 to a tiered system based on battery capacity.
Cheaper Home Batteries Program
Launched July 2025 and expanded to $7.2 billion (from $2.3B) in December 2025, this federal program provides approximately $300/kWh (~30% off) on eligible battery systems. Critical change May 1, 2026: Tiered rebates reduce benefits for batteries over 14kWh.
Eligibility Requirements
solar_powerSolar (STCs)
- check_circleSystem under 100kW capacity
- check_circleCEC-approved panels and inverter
- check_circleInstalled by CEC-accredited installer
- check_circleNew equipment only (not second-hand)
- check_circleNo income or property value test
battery_fullBattery Program
- check_circleBattery capacity 5-50 kWh
- check_circleCEC-approved battery system
- check_circlePaired with new or existing solar
- check_circleVPP-capable (joining optional)
- check_circleOne per property
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the federal solar rebate in Australia?
The federal solar rebate comes through Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). When you install solar, you earn certificates based on your system size and location. These are typically assigned to your installer, who gives you an instant discount of $2,000-$3,000+ on a standard 6.6kW system.
How much is the federal battery rebate in 2026?
The Cheaper Home Batteries Program provides approximately 30% off eligible battery systems. For a 10kWh battery, this is approximately $3,300 off. The rebate applies to the first 50kWh of battery capacity.
Do I need to apply for the federal solar rebate?
No, you don't need to apply separately. The STC rebate is automatically applied as a point-of-sale discount by your CEC-accredited installer. Just ensure your quote shows the STC discount applied.
When do federal solar rebates end?
The STC program reduces annually and ends completely on December 31, 2030. The deeming period for 2026 is 5 years (down from 6 in 2025), reducing rebate values by approximately 15-20%. Each year the rebate decreases further. The Cheaper Home Batteries Program runs through 2030 with $7.2 billion in funding.
What are STC zones and how do they affect my rebate?
Australia is divided into four STC zones based on solar irradiance. Zone 1 (Darwin, Far North QLD) gets the highest rebates, Zone 4 (Melbourne, Hobart) gets the lowest. Your location determines how many STCs your system generates.
Can I get federal rebates if I already have solar?
Yes! If you're adding a battery to existing solar, you can access the Cheaper Home Batteries Program for ~30% off. For solar upgrades or new systems, you can get STCs on any new panels added.
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