The New South Wales (NSW) government is taking major steps to encourage the adoption of renewable energy with a new rebate program for solar battery installations.
Starting this Friday eligible households and small businesses can claim rebates of up to $2,400 to help cover the costs of installing solar batteries
This initiative is expected to benefit more than 100,000 households across the state by lowering the upfront cost of solar battery installations, making renewable energy more affordable and accessible.
The program aims to support residents in reducing their electricity bills and improving energy independence
The rebate applies to both existing solar panel owners who want to add a battery and those installing both solar panels and a battery for the first time.
For new installations the total cost of solar panels and battery storage typically ranges from $18,000 to $22,000, with the rebate covering up to 13% of the total cost.
Australia’s $2400 Energy Rebate Program
Starting November 1, NSW residents can access this rebate for installing solar batteries.
The program applies to two types of installations: households or businesses that already have a solar power system and wish to add a battery, and those installing both solar panels and a battery.
The rebate value varies according to battery capacity:
- $770 to $1,150 for a 6.5 kWh battery
- $1,600 to $2,400 for a 13.5 kWh battery
The rebate will be provided directly to accredited suppliers, who will then pass it on to customers through licensed installers, ensuring an easy claim process
Rebate Amount
Up to $2,400
Eligible Capacity
2 – 28 kWh
Available From
November 1, 2024
Rebate Type
Upfront discount to suppliers
Installation Requirements
Must be a new battery installation
Application Process
Via accredited suppliers and installers
Types of Eligible Installations
This solar battery rebate program is designed to provide substantial savings on various battery types.
Below is a breakdown of eligible installations and rebate amounts:
- 6.5 kWh battery: Rebate amount ranges from $770 to $1,150 for adding a battery to an existing solar system
- 13.5 kWh battery: Rebate amount ranges from $1,600 to $2,400 for installing both solar panels and a battery
For homeowners without existing solar panels the NSW government offers a combined discount for both solar panels and a battery, making the transition to renewable energy even more affordable.
Cost of Solar Battery Installation
The cost of installing a solar battery system can vary based on the brand and capacity of the battery.
Here’s an estimate of the costs for some popular models in NSW:
- BYD Solar Battery (13.8 kWh): Approx. cost $12,200
- Tesla Powerwall 2 (13.5 kWh): Approx. cost $15,500
- Sungrow Battery (12.8 kWh): Approx. cost $11,400
These prices are estimates and could change based on the supplier and installation costs.
With the rebate, eligible residents can expect a significant reduction in their installation costs, making renewable energy more accessible
How to Apply and Claim the Solar Battery Rebate
Here’s how to claim the solar battery rebate:
- Ensure the battery system has a capacity between 2 to 28 kWh
- Visit the NSW Government website to find a list of accredited suppliers and installers
- Contact accredited suppliers and get quotes for the battery installation ensuring the rebate will be applied
- Choose an accredited installer to qualify for the rebate
- Request the rebate details and installation plan from the supplier
- Sign the nomination form provided by the installer to allow the supplier to receive the rebate on your behalf
- Schedule the installation date with the accredited supplier
- Complete the installation on the scheduled date
- After installation, ensure the system is properly set up and all criteria are met
- Keep all final documentation and receipts for future reference
Benefits of Adding Solar Batteries
According to Energy Minister Penny Sharpe, more than 1 million households in NSW currently have solar panels installed.
By adding a solar battery to these systems, homeowners can store excess energy for use when the sun isn’t shining.
Key benefits of adding a solar battery include:
- Storing excess energy generated during the day to use at night or during peak hours when grid electricity is more expensive
- Reducing reliance on the energy grid, leading to lower monthly electricity bills
- Supporting the state’s transition to cleaner energy by optimizing renewable sources
The solar battery rebate program is an important step towards enhancing renewable energy use across NSW.
It offers residents and small businesses the opportunity to reduce their energy costs while contributing to the state’s renewable energy goals.
If you’re considering installing a solar battery or adding one to your existing solar system, now is the ideal time to take advantage of these government rebates.
Transitioning to renewable energy is not only a wise financial decision but also an environmentally friendly one.
