What’s the Cheaper Home Batteries Program All About?
In a major move towards clean energy, the Australian Government has introduced the Cheaper Home Batteries Program, designed to make battery storage systems more affordable for households, businesses, and community buildings. This new rebate, part of the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme, provides an upfront discount on battery installations to help Aussies reduce power bills and increase energy independence.
Instead of waiting for cashback, the rebate is applied instantly at the point of installation, reducing your upfront cost. This is made possible by the federal government’s support of Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), which your battery installer will redeem in exchange for the discount—with zero added costs to you.
How Much Can You Save on Battery Installation in 2025?
In 2025, the federal solar battery rebate is worth approximately $372 per kWh of usable storage, capped at 50 kWh per property. That means you can receive up to $18,500 off your battery system—no income testing, no voucher lottery.
The rebate applies automatically through your installer and is available Australia-wide, including Victoria and suburbs like Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Moe, and Somerville.
💡 Act Fast: The rebate value reduces every year until 2030, so the highest savings are available in 2025.
Who Is Eligible for the 2025 Solar Battery Rebate?
To receive the rebate, your system must meet a few simple criteria:
✅ 1. Battery Size: 5–50 kWh
Systems must be between 5 kWh and 50 kWh. You can upgrade an existing system as long as the final size is under 100 kWh.
✅ 2. Solar Panels Required
The battery must be connected to rooftop solar—either a new or existing PV system. Standalone batteries that charge only from the grid do not qualify.
✅ 3. Virtual Power Plant (VPP) Compatibility
If you’re on the grid, your battery and inverter must be VPP-capable, meaning they can communicate with the energy network. Off-grid systems are exempt.
✅ 4. Certified Products & Installers
The battery must be on the Clean Energy Council’s approved product list, and the installation must be carried out by an accredited installer like Ecospread.
✅ 5. Permanent Installation Only
The battery must be fixed and permanent—portable or vehicle batteries are not eligible.
⚠️ Good news: This rebate has no income restrictions and is available to both homeowners and investment properties.
How Much Will a Battery Cost After the Rebate?
Thanks to the government subsidy, the cost of installing a battery has dropped significantly. Here’s a breakdown of estimated prices after applying the rebate:
| Battery Size | Pre-Rebate Cost | Approx. Rebate | Net Cost (After Rebate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kWh | $3,000–$8,000 | $900–$2,400 | $2,100–$5,600 |
| 10 kWh | $7,000–$16,000 | $2,100–$4,800 | $4,900–$11,200 |
| 13.5 kWh | $10,000–$20,000 | $3,700–$6,000 | $7,000–$14,000 |
| 20 kWh | $20,000–$34,000 | $6,000–$10,200 | $14,000–$23,800 |
💰 Savings of up to 30% mean shorter payback periods and better long-term returns.
Why Victorian Households Are Adding Solar Batteries in 2025
At Ecospread, we see growing demand for solar battery installations, especially when combined with energy-efficient heat pumps and reverse-cycle air conditioners. Here’s why:
⚡ Lower Power Bills
Store excess solar power during the day and use it at night—cutting your electricity bills drastically.
🌙 Avoid Peak Charges
Use your stored solar energy during peak hours and protect yourself from high evening rates.
🌞 Maximise Your Solar Investment
Instead of exporting unused solar power for a low feed-in tariff, keep it and use it when you need it most—even after sunset.
🔌 Backup Power in Outages
Modern batteries offer backup functionality. Stay powered during blackouts or summer storms with essential appliances still running.
🌿 Go Greener
Reduce your household’s carbon footprint by using clean, stored solar energy instead of relying on fossil-fuel-generated grid electricity.
🔄 Ready for Virtual Power Plants
Future-proof your home by installing a VPP-capable system. You may be eligible for extra credits by supporting the energy grid in times of high demand.
Perfect Combo: Solar + Battery + Efficient Appliances
Homeowners in Melbourne, Ballarat, Bendigo, and other Victorian regions are pairing solar batteries with:
- ✅ Reverse Cycle Air Conditioning
- ✅ Heat Pump Hot Water Systems
- ✅ Energy-Efficient Appliances
This triple solution can power your entire home without drawing from the grid. It’s comfort, savings, and sustainability—all in one.
Don’t Miss the 2025 Rebate Opportunity!
The government rebate for batteries is highest in 2025 and will gradually reduce each year until 2030. That means the best time to install your battery system is right now.
✅ No income test
✅ Combine with solar PV rebates
✅ Up to $18,500 in savings
✅ Future-ready energy setup
📞 Ready to Get Started?
At Ecospread Melbourne, we specialise in solar battery installation and can help you:
- ✅ Choose the right battery size
- ✅ Maximise government rebates
- ✅ Combine your system with energy-efficient upgrades
👉 Contact us today for a free consultation and quote.
📍 Serving Melbourne, Ballarat, Bendigo, Moe, Somerville, Geelong & surrounding areas.
📞 Call Us: 1300 001 690
✉️ Email: Info@ecospread.com.au
🌐 Visit Us: www.ecospread.com.au
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much is the 2025 solar battery rebate?
A: It’s about $372 per kWh of usable storage. That’s ~30% off a typical system, with a maximum rebate of $18,500. The rate will decrease each year.
Q: Do I need to have solar panels installed already?
A: Yes, the battery must be connected to either a new or existing rooftop solar system to qualify for the rebate.
Q: Can I combine this with other rebates?
A: Absolutely! You can combine this federal rebate with STCs for solar panels or other state-based programs (if available).
Q: What if I already have solar?
A: You’re still eligible! As long as your battery connects to your existing PV system and meets the criteria, you can claim the rebate.
