Cheaper Home Batteries Program, in plain English.
The national program supports eligible batteries connected to new or existing rooftop solar through the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme.
What households can receive
Official guidance says Australian households, businesses and community organisations can receive around a 30% discount on the upfront cost of eligible small-scale batteries between 5 kWh and 100 kWh. The benefit is based on usable battery capacity and the number of STCs the system is eligible for.
What changed on 1 May 2026
For batteries installed from May to December 2026, the STC factor is 6.8 per kWh before capacity tapering. The factor declines in later periods through 2030.
| Usable capacity portion | Percentage of STC factor |
|---|---|
| 0–14 kWh | 100% |
| Above 14–28 kWh | 60% |
| Above 28–50 kWh | 15% |
Batteries up to 100 kWh remain eligible under the program, but the certificate calculation applies to the first 50 kWh of usable capacity.
How you normally receive it
Consumers generally receive the benefit through an accredited retailer or installer, either as an upfront reduction or a rebate after installation. Consumers can also choose to create and trade STCs directly, provided they have not assigned the right to create them to the installer or retailer.
Basic checks before buying
- Battery connected to new or existing solar PV.
- Check official eligibility rules for the installation.
- Use a Solar Accreditation Australia accredited installer.
- Use a Clean Energy Council accredited battery product.
- Confirm the value of the discount, warranty and anticipated payback with the retailer or installer.