Recent updates
July 2026: every figure re-verified, calculator rebuilt
We re-checked every rebate figure on the site against canonical government sources on 13 July 2026: federal battery factor confirmed at 6.8 until 31 December, solar deeming at 5 years, plus fresh state program statuses. And the calculator now gives an instant answer, no email required.
Federal STC deeming drops to 5 years for 2026 installs
The STC deeming period stepped down from 6 to 5 years on 1 January 2026, trimming the federal solar rebate value versus 2025. Corrected 13 July 2026 with verified figures.
Cheaper Home Batteries Program rate steps down 1 May 2026
The federal battery factor dropped from 8.4 to 6.8 STCs per usable kWh on 1 May 2026 (about $271/kWh gross at current prices), with new capacity tapering above 14 kWh.
QLD Battery Booster closed in May 2024 and was not restarted
Queensland's Battery Booster rebate program closed to new applications on 8 May 2024. Two years on, it has not been restarted. Federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program now applies.
NSW Empowering Homes loan closed; PDRS battery incentive takes over
NSW's interest-free Empowering Homes battery loan closed to new applications in 2025. The Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS) now pays a per-kWh battery incentive instead.
ACT Sustainable Household Scheme moves to 3% interest
From 1 July 2025, the ACT Sustainable Household Scheme loan carries a 3% interest rate. The $15,000 cap and product coverage are unchanged.
Victoria's regulated minimum feed-in tariff removed from 1 July 2025
Victoria's Essential Services Commission stopped setting a regulated minimum solar feed-in tariff on 1 July 2025. Retailers now set their own voluntary rates with no floor.
WA Residential Battery Scheme: $130/kWh Synergy, $380/kWh Horizon
Western Australia's Residential Battery Scheme pays $130 per usable kWh for Synergy customers (max $1,300) and $380 per kWh for Horizon Power customers (max $3,800). Mandatory VPP participation.