As energy prices in Australia continue to fluctuate, many households and small businesses are looking for smarter, more sustainable ways to manage electricity use. One of the most effective solutions is installing a solar battery – a device that stores excess solar power for later use, reducing reliance on the grid during peak times. But high upfront costs often deter consumers from making this investment.
To address this, the New South Wales (NSW) Government has introduced the Install a Battery initiative – a rebate program designed to make solar battery systems more affordable. Here’s everything you need to know about this initiative, including how it works, who is eligible, and how it can benefit your household or business.
Why Install a Solar Battery for Your Home or Small Business?
Installing a battery provides immediate and long-term benefits for energy consumers:
- Reduced electricity bills: Batteries let you use your solar power after sunset, helping avoid peak electricity rates.
- Energy independence: Reduce reliance on the grid by storing and using your own energy.
- Backup during blackouts: Many solar battery systems can provide power even when the grid is down.
- Environmental impact: Lower your carbon footprint by maximising your use of renewable energy.
For small businesses, a battery can reduce energy expenses and improve resilience—particularly useful for cafes, retail shops, or medical practices operating in areas prone to outages.
Overview of the NSW Battery Rebate Program
The Household Energy Upgrades Fund is a federal initiative, and NSW is the first state to implement its solar battery component through the “Install a Battery” program. It aims to help eligible participants install smart, Virtual Power Plant (VPP)-ready batteries by offering a significant upfront discount.
This program is coordinated by the NSW Office of Energy and Climate Change, in partnership with Plenti, who will manage vendor accreditation and program delivery.
Key Dates and Timeline
- Launch Date: Expected mid-2024 (exact date TBC)
- Eligibility Start: Rebates apply only to batteries installed after the program launch
- Duration: The program will remain open until allocated funding is exhausted
Planning ahead? You can register interest now via the NSW Energy website to receive updates as the program launches.
How the Discount Works
Eligible participants will receive an upfront discount on the cost of installing a battery system from approved vendors.
Key Features
- Estimated savings: Discounts are expected to reduce battery installation costs by approximately 20–30%.
- Smart battery focus: Only VPP-capable batteries qualify for the rebate.
- No need to replace existing PV systems: If your current solar system meets safety and compatibility standards, you can simply add a battery.
The exact rebate amount will depend on:
- Battery size (measured in kilowatt-hours)
- VPP capability
- Supplier participation
VPP Participation: An Extra Layer of Value
A Virtual Power Plant (VPP) is a network of solar batteries connected via smart software. It allows your battery to share excess stored energy with the grid during peak demand, helping stabilize the electricity system while earning you bill credits or payments.
By installing a VPP-ready battery, you gain:
- Financial incentives for participating in the energy market
- Improved battery return on investment (ROI)
- Contribution to broader grid stability and sustainability
Most VPP programs allow you to retain control over how your energy is used, with the ability to opt out or adjust settings.
Eligibility Criteria
To access the rebate, you or your business must meet the following conditions:
For Property Owners
- Located in New South Wales
- Own the premises where the battery will be installed (home or small business)
- Install the battery after the official program start date
For Equipment
- Must be VPP-capable
- Minimum usable storage capacity: 5 kWh
- Must meet Clean Energy Council (CEC) and safety compliance standards
For Installers
- Must be accredited under the NETCC (New Energy Tech Consumer Code)
- Must follow the program’s installation requirements and pass audits
More details will be finalised and published on the NSW Government and Plenti websites prior to launch.
How to Apply
Once the program launches, follow these steps:
- Choose an approved battery vendor: A full list of accredited providers will be published online.
- Receive a quote: The vendor will include the upfront discount in your quote automatically.
- Installation & registration: Once the system is installed, it will be registered with Plenti and/or the relevant scheme partner.
- Join a VPP: You’ll be asked to opt in to a VPP program during or after installation.
- Rebate claim: The rebate will be processed on your behalf—no paperwork needed.
Note: You cannot claim the rebate retroactively for installations before the program’s start.
Quality Assurance & Safety
All systems installed under the program will be subject to:
- Technical audits
- VPP compliance checks
- Electrical safety inspections
Installers and retailers must adhere to state energy codes, and failure to comply may result in deregistration from the program.
Additional Support
The NSW battery rebate can be combined with other state-based or federal solar initiatives, including:
- Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES): Helps subsidise solar PV installations
- Energy efficiency loans
- VPP program benefits
However, always check for compatibility rules between programs. In some cases, overlapping support may affect eligibility.
FAQs
Homeowners and small business owners in NSW who install a VPP-capable battery system through an approved vendor after the program start date.
Yes, as long as your current system is compliant and compatible with the battery. No need to replace it unless it’s outdated or unsafe.
The rebate is applied at the point of sale—your installer will subtract the discount from your invoice.
From quote to installation, expect 1–3 weeks depending on vendor availability and VPP requirements.
Yes. To qualify for the rebate, the battery must be VPP-ready and the user must agree to participate in a recognised VPP.
Depending on usage, battery size, and your VPP agreement, typical savings range from $500 to $1,500 per year.
The system can remain at the property and still benefit the new occupant, but the rebate is tied to the initial installation and cannot be transferred.
Yes. Systems installed under the program must include warranties of at least 10 years on the battery and associated hardware.
Conclusion
The Install a Battery program represents a major step forward in making clean energy storage accessible and affordable for Australians. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to cut your electricity bills or a small business aiming for energy resilience, now is the perfect time to explore battery options.
With upfront discounts, VPP participation, and trusted support from accredited solar suppliers like Solar Rains, the path to a smarter, greener future is more affordable than ever.
Contact Solar Rains today to learn more about battery options and rebate support tailored to your needs.