Solar Battery Victoria 2026
Victoria's strong time-of-use tariff spreads make batteries one of the best investments for Melbourne homeowners. While the Solar Victoria battery loan has closed, the federal Cheaper Home Batteries rebate (~$3,300 for 10kWh) still brings costs down significantly. Peak rates of 40-55c/kWh mean a 10kWh battery can save $80-$120 per month through energy arbitrage.
Battery Storage in VIC
Victoria's excellent time-of-use tariff spreads and active VPP programs make battery storage highly profitable. With the federal Cheaper Home Batteries rebate reducing upfront costs by ~$3,300 for a 10kWh system, Melbourne homeowners can achieve payback periods of 5-7 years while enjoying energy independence and backup power.
Time-of-Use Arbitrage
Victoria's TOU spreads are among Australia's highest: peak 40-55c/kWh vs off-peak 15-20c/kWh. Charge your battery from solar or cheap off-peak power and discharge during expensive peak periods.
VPP Earnings
VPP programs in Victoria let you earn $200-$800+ annually by sharing stored energy during peak demand events across the NEM, on top of your regular savings.
Blackout Protection
Melbourne's extreme weather events and aging grid infrastructure make backup power increasingly valuable. A battery keeps your home running during outages.
VIC Battery Programs & Incentives
Current and past incentive programs available to VIC battery buyers. The federal Cheaper Home Batteries rebate is the main active program.
Federal Cheaper Home Batteries
OpenFederal government rebate covers ~$302/kWh. Available Australia-wide and the primary incentive for VIC residents. Tiered structure changes May 1, 2026.
- checkAustralian homeowner
- checkSAA-approved battery
- checkLicensed electrician
- checkNew battery installation
Solar Victoria Battery Loan
ClosedThe Solar Victoria interest-free battery loan closed in May 2025. It provided up to $8,800 as a 4-year interest-free loan. No longer accepting applications.
- closeProgram closed May 2025
- closeNo longer accepting applications
Solar Victoria Solar Rebate
OpenSolar Victoria's solar panel rebate is still active. While not a battery-specific incentive, it can be combined with a battery purchase to reduce your total solar + storage cost by $4,700+.
- checkHousehold income under $210,000
- checkProperty value under $3M
- checkVIC residential property
- checkOne rebate per address
Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU)
InfoThe VEU program provides certificates for energy-efficient upgrades including some battery installations. Discounts are applied by participating retailers. Check with your installer.
- checkContact participating retailer
- checkVIC residential property
- checkEligible product required
VIC Battery Cost Breakdown 2026
Here's what a typical 10kWh battery installation costs in Victoria after the federal rebate.
10kWh Battery, VIC Pricing
Ongoing savings: TOU arbitrage savings of $80-$120/month plus VPP earnings of $200-$800 annually. Typical payback period: 5-7 years.
VIC Battery Prices by Size
| Size | Installed | After Rebates |
|---|---|---|
| 5kWh | $5,500-$7,500 | $3,500-$5,500 |
| 10kWh | $10,000-$12,000 | $6,700-$8,700 |
| 13.5kWh | $13,000-$16,000 | $8,900-$12,000 |
| 20kWh | $16,000-$22,000 | $9,900-$15,900 |
*After rebates = installed price minus federal rebate (~$302/kWh). Actual savings vary.
Monthly Arbitrage Savings
Victoria's time-of-use tariffs have a significant peak-to-off-peak spread. A 10kWh battery cycling daily can save:
Top Batteries for VIC
Premium battery systems with VIC-specific pricing including approximate costs after federal rebates. All are VPP-compatible and eligible for current incentives.
Tesla Powerwall 3
BYD Battery-Box Premium
Sungrow SBR
Enphase IQ Battery
Alpha ESS SMILE5
Redback Smart Hybrid
VIC Battery FAQs
helpIs the Solar Victoria battery loan still available?
No. The Solar Victoria battery loan (up to $8,800 interest-free) closed in May 2025. VIC residents can still access the federal Cheaper Home Batteries rebate (~$3,300 for 10kWh).
helpWhat battery incentives are available in Victoria in 2026?
The federal Cheaper Home Batteries rebate (~$302/kWh, ~$3,300 for 10kWh) is the primary incentive. Solar Victoria’s solar panel rebate ($1,400) is still active for eligible households (income under $210,000).
helpHow much does a home battery cost in Melbourne?
A 10kWh battery costs approximately $10,000-$12,000 fully installed. After the federal rebate (~$3,300), out-of-pocket cost is around $7,700. Prices vary by brand and installer.
helpWhy are batteries so effective in Victoria?
Victoria has strong time-of-use tariff spreads with peak rates of 40-55c/kWh and off-peak rates of 15-20c/kWh. This large spread means batteries can save $80-$120 per month through energy arbitrage alone.
helpCan I combine Solar Victoria's solar rebate with a battery?
Yes. You can claim the Solar Victoria solar panel rebate ($1,400) alongside a separate battery installation with the federal rebate. Combined savings on a solar + battery package can exceed $4,700.
helpWhat VPP programs are available in Victoria?
Several VPP programs operate in Victoria including AGL, Origin, and Amber Electric. VPP participation can earn $200-$800+ per year on top of your self-consumption savings.
helpWhat is the payback period for batteries in Melbourne?
With TOU savings of $80-$120/month and potential VPP earnings of $200-$800/year, a 10kWh battery at $7,700 (after rebates) typically pays back in 5-7 years.
Related Resources
All Batteries
Compare all home batteries Australia-wide with pricing and specs.
Learn more →VIC Rebates
Full guide to all VIC solar and battery rebates and incentives.
Learn more →VPP Programs
Compare Virtual Power Plant programs and maximise your battery earnings.
Learn more →Battery Costs
2026 battery pricing guide with costs by capacity and brand.
Learn more →Get Your VIC Battery Quote
Find out exactly how much you'll save with the federal battery rebate in Victoria. We'll match you with accredited installers in Melbourne, Geelong and across VIC.