Fast read
Yes—many Australian businesses can combine the upcoming federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program subsidy with their state or territory’s existing battery rebates. Set to launch on 1 July 2025, the federal scheme is explicitly designed to be stackable, meaning eligible businesses may significantly reduce battery costs by accessing multiple subsidies.
But it’s critical to check eligibility criteria for each program, as state-based rules and definitions can differ. Consulting a Clean Energy Council (CEC)-accredited installer is the best way to ensure you're maximising your entitlements.
Can Australian businesses claim both federal and state battery rebates?
With electricity prices rising and sustainability pressure mounting, more Australian businesses are looking to battery storage to cut energy bills and reduce reliance on the grid. But batteries aren’t cheap, and that’s where rebates can make a big difference.
Following the re-election of the Albanese Government in May 2025, the launch of the new Cheaper Home Batteries Program has been confirmed for July. Designed to work alongside existing state and territory rebates, the federal scheme is shaping up to be a powerful lever for commercial solar battery adoption.
What is the federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program?
Set to begin on 1 July 2025, this new national subsidy helps reduce the upfront cost of solar-connected batteries. While designed primarily for households, it also explicitly includes:
- Small businesses
- Community facilities
Here’s what your business needs to know:
- Rebate value: Up to $372 per usable kWh of battery capacity in 2025, with around $330/ kWh expected as the net benefit after admin fees.
- Eligible system size: Batteries between 5 kWh and 50 kWh of usable storage qualify for the full rebate. Businesses can install larger systems (up to 100 kWh) but will only be subsidised for the eligible 50 kWh portion.
- Installation criteria: Systems must use CEC-approved batteries and be installed by CEC-accredited battery professionals.
- Solar connection: The battery must be connected to a new or existing solar PV system.
- VPP readiness: All systems must be Virtual Power Plant-capable, although joining a VPP is optional.
- Program scope: The scheme is uncapped, meaning no national limit on the number of eligible installations.
- Pre-July installations: Batteries installed earlier may still qualify if they’re not commissioned until 1 July 2025 or later.
Can this rebate be combined with state or territory schemes?
Yes—“stacking” subsidies is allowed under the federal program’s design. Here’s how that plays out across different states and territories:
New South Wales
The Empowering Homes initiative (also referred to as the Peak Demand Reduction Scheme) offers rebates for eligible homes and some small businesses. While this program is expected to be compatible with the federal subsidy, it’s important to confirm any updated eligibility rules before proceeding.
Western Australia
WA’s upcoming Residential Battery Scheme—available through Synergy and Horizon Power— is intended to work in tandem with the federal rebate. That’s a win for WA businesses planning mid-2025 installations.
Northern Territory
The NT’s Home and Business Battery Scheme already supports eligible installations and can also be combined with the federal subsidy. This layered support offers one of the strongest incentive packages in the country.
Queensland
Queensland’s previous Battery Booster program, which offered rebates for households, closed in May 2024 and is no longer accepting applications. As of now, there is no active state battery rebate available for Queensland businesses. However, the federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program will be fully available to eligible businesses from 1 July 2025, offering a significant cost offset on battery installations.
While direct “double dipping” isn’t currently an option in Queensland, the federal subsidy alone can still deliver substantial savings. It’s also worth noting that Queensland is investing in its Battery Industry Strategy, aimed at boosting local battery manufacturing and supply chains—though this doesn’t yet include installation rebates for businesses.
Victoria & ACT
Victoria’s Solar Battery Loan and the ACT’s Sustainable Household Scheme are zero-interest loan programs, not direct rebates. While they don’t reduce upfront prices, you can still apply the federal rebate to lower the loan amount required—an indirect but valuable benefit.
Important: Rules can change. Always confirm with your state’s energy department or your installer that double-dipping is still permitted under both schemes.
What should businesses consider before applying?
Combining rebates can save thousands, but only if you meet all program requirements and manage the logistics carefully.
- Eligibility clarity: Each scheme defines “small business” differently. Look out for revenue caps, employee thresholds, or ABN conditions.
- Timing: The federal rebate begins on 1 July 2025, with annual reductions until 2030. Early action can lock in the highest rebate tier.
- Battery specs: Choose a CEC-listed battery that’s VPP-ready and properly sized (5–50 kWh eligible for subsidy).
- Installation delays: If you’re pre-ordering a system, ensure your installer delays commissioning until 1 July or later to remain eligible.
- Admin workload: You may need to submit separate applications for federal and state schemes—plan for some paperwork.
- Installer selection: Reputable, CEC-accredited battery installers often handle the rebate process and can provide quotes with both subsidies factored in.
Next steps: How your business can prepare
- Assess your site: Consider current solar capacity, peak energy demand, and how battery storage could reduce your costs or exposure to time-of-use pricing.
- Compare incentives: Look up your state’s battery support programs and compare the rebate types, application windows, and business eligibility rules.
- Talk to professionals: An accredited solar and battery installer can assess your energy usage, recommend battery solutions, and provide quotes with both federal and state rebates applied.
- Get ready now: Even if you can’t commission a battery until July, you can start getting quotes, planning installation, and securing your spot in the queue.
The bottom line
Yes—Australian businesses can often combine federal and state battery rebates, making solar storage more accessible and affordable. But eligibility rules vary, and the timing must be carefully managed.
By working with CEC-accredited professionals and staying across your local energy schemes, your business can tap into maximum financial support for battery storage—and take a major step toward lower bills and cleaner energy.
Need help connecting with expert installers in your area?
Your Energy Answers offers a free matching service to help you find trusted, accredited professionals who understand the latest subsidies and can guide your project from start to finish.
