Straight answers, 2026
How does the Cheaper Home Batteries discount work?
The short answer
The Cheaper Home Batteries Program is a federal discount that typically takes 25 to 30% off the price of a home battery, depending on its size. Your installer claims it and takes it off your quote, and it can only be claimed once per property.
Federal figures as at the tiered structure that started 1 May 2026. By Verified Solar. Last updated .
How much is the discount?
Since 1 May 2026 the discount is tiered by the battery's usable capacity. The first 14 kWh earns the full rate, roughly $244 to $252 per usable kWh. Capacity above that earns less:
| Usable capacity | Discount rate |
|---|---|
| 0 to 14 kWh | Full rate (about $244 to $252 per kWh) |
| 14 to 28 kWh | 60% of the full rate |
| 28 to 50 kWh | 15% of the full rate |
| Above 50 kWh | No discount |
Who claims it?
The installer does. The discount works through small-scale technology certificates (STCs), which the installer claims. Your installer handles the claim and takes it off your price upfront, so there is no refund to wait for.
Why does "once per property" matter?
The discount can only be claimed once per property. If it is used on a battery that turns out too small, it cannot be claimed again when the system is fixed or extended. That makes it worth sizing the battery properly the first time.
Will the discount change?
Federal rates have changed before and may again, so check the current figure when you get a quote. What matters most is sizing the battery properly, because the discount can only be used once.
What does a battery cost after the discount?
These installed prices already include the discount (as at 21 August 2026):
| Battery size | Typical installed price |
|---|---|
| 8 to 13 kWh | $8,550 to $10,925 |
| 14 to 22 kWh | $10,700 to $13,650 |
| 23 to 31 kWh | $13,650 to $17,450 |
| 32 to 40 kWh | $16,650 to $21,250 |
| 41 to 49 kWh | $19,600 to $25,050 |
Common questions
Do I have to claim the battery discount myself?
No. Your installer claims it through small-scale technology certificates and takes it off your quote, so the price you are quoted should already include it.
Can I get the discount and a state rebate?
Some state incentives sit alongside the federal discount. NSW has an incentive, roughly $720 to $1,500, for connecting an eligible battery to a virtual power plant, and WA has its own battery rebate, which requires joining a virtual power plant. Queensland has no current state battery rebate.
Can I claim the discount again if I add more batteries later?
No. It can only be claimed once per property, which is why it pays to size the battery properly the first time.
Get the answer for your home
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