Save More on Installation Costs with a Solar Battery Rebate
The solar revolution in Australia has helped many households cut their electricity bills. It has also helped them reduce their reliance on the grid and store excess energy with the help of home battery storage. Solar battery rebates have empowered homeowners to save thousands of dollars on their installations. However, those savings are changing significantly in 2026.
International manufacturing prices are set to climb, and rebates are decreasing in the new year. That’s why it’s essential to understand what you can expect to pay for your installation and how to maximise your savings with Volteam’s industry insights below.
What’s Changing in 2026?
The federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program, launched in 2025 by the Australian government, has encouraged many homeowners and small businesses to make the switch to solar. However, in 2026, those rebates will be reduced and continue to decrease through 2030 as the upfront cost of installing a solar battery system increases.
Alongside this, solar panel manufacturers in China have stated that prices are expected to increase throughout the new year as part of the Chinese government’s intervention.
Due to this combination, solar battery installers are busier than ever, with Energy Storage News reporting that roughly 8,000 applications are being processed per week as part of the Cheaper Home Batteries Program. If you’re considering going solar, contact Volteam today to check our availability for installations.
Solar Battery Rebate Reduction 2026
The main change coming in 2026 is the number of Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs). These determine how much you’ll save on the cost of a solar battery installation, and the rebate schedule means that each year this saving will decrease.
You would thus receive 9.3 STCs per kWh with an estimated value of $344 per kWh in 2025, while from January 1st 2026, that reduces to 8.4 STCS/kWh and an estimated value of $311/kWh.
While the size of your solar battery will depend on your needs, a 13kWh battery, for example, would net you a ~$4,440 rebate this year, while that same battery would only get you a ~$4,033 discount next year, representing an extra $407 for you to pay. Learn more about your potential savings with a free quote.
The Impact of Manufacturing Costs on Buying Solar Batteries
It’s not just the rebate that will impact solar battery prices in 2026. The solar panel supply chain is about to change thanks to intervention from the Chinese Government. Polysilicon (a vital material for conventional solar cells) has been in oversupply with low prices for several years now.
This has passed on savings to consumers through lower production costs; however, new government guidelines will now restrict the expansive industry, with production rates expected to decrease by 30-45% among top producers, according to research from Wood Mackenzie.
While planned changes to energy consumption standards in polysilicon plants, which will affect production, aren’t due to be implemented until late 2026, the announcement of these changes has already impacted pricing.
The overall low cost of solar systems and batteries means that these changes may not majorly impact the price of your installation investment. Still, coupled with the decreased rebates, it’s essential to understand how prices are expected to change in the coming years.
How to Get Your Solar Battery Rebate Before 2026
Since prices are expected to rise and incentives decrease in the coming year, consumers who invest now stand to gain a few key advantages, including:
- Maximum Rebate: 2025 provides the best value rebate, with savings only decreasing through 2030
- Ongoing Savings: A home battery enables you to utilise free solar power during expensive peak hours, which can significantly reduce your annual grid electricity costs.
- Eco-Friendly: Reduce your carbon footprint today with cleaner and more sustainable energy use.
- Protect Your Investment: Future-proof your home against rising energy prices over the coming years to prevent unpredictable energy spikes from disrupting your budget.
How Do You Apply for the Solar Battery Rebate?
The process has been made very easy for consumers through various accredited and certified providers, such as Volteam, when it comes to getting a federal solar battery rebate. Follow these steps:
- Check Your Eligibility: Make sure that the solar battery rebate applies to your system and your property qualifies under the Cheaper Home Batteries Program.
- Select a Certified System: The system has to be a CEC-certified system to ensure that it meets the set standards for the rebate.
- Get a Quote: A detailed quote from a reputable provider will break down the value, system cost and anticipate payback period.
- Submit Your Application: Your rebate is automatically applied as an upfront discount as the application process is handled by the provider.
- Install Your System: A certified installer verified with Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) will ensure that your system is safely set up and compliant with regulations
- Enjoy Your Savings: Once your battery has been installed, you’ll start generating and storing clean energy right away.
Getting the Most from Your Solar Battery System
While you may want to rush to make the most of the savings before the rebate changes in 2026, it’s crucial to partner with a reputable and professional company to ensure your investment is worth the price.
But, with the level of competition in the Australian home solar and battery market, it pays to take the time to research the best providers who won’t leave you with a poorly installed system that isn’t fit for purpose.
Whether you are installing a new system or upgrading your current one, Volteam is here to help you with all that is required to get the best out of your investment, from installation to regular maintenance. We’re here to help you get up and running efficiently so you can start reaping the benefits of solar energy.
Get in touch with our experts today to see how much you can save on your electricity bills by making the move to clean solar energy.
FAQs
What’s Changing with Solar Battery Rebates in 2026?
While the eligibility for the rebate remains the same, the rebate amount will be smaller as the program funding is phased out gradually through 2030. This means that STC values continue to decrease, so your upfront discount will be lower. Find out how much you can save in 2026 with Volteam.
How Can I Maximise My Savings with the Solar Battery Rebates?
Since the rebates will be decreasing year on year, it’s essential to install your solar battery sooner rather than later. Your rebate will be calculated based on the installation date, so get in touch with us today to find out how much you can save.
How are Solar Battery Rebates Affecting Your Savings in 2026?
STCs are lowering from 9.3/kWh in 2025 to 8.4/kWh in 2026. This means you can expect to pay around $400 more in upfront costs. Act now to secure your solar battery rebate and maximise your savings before costs increase through 2030.
How Much Can You Save on Energy Bills with a Solar Battery?
On average, a typical 10kWh battery, which suits most homes, can help lower energy bills by between $700 and $1,500 per year, depending on electricity usage and prices. See how much you can save by switching to solar with Volteam.
