Top 10 Solar Rebates and Incentives Available in Australia in 2026

Solar continues to deliver strong financial and environmental value for Australian households and businesses. In 2026, a combination of federal and state incentives is still helping reduce upfront costs while improving long-term energy savings. At Ramselec Solar, rebate eligibility and incentive optimisation are built into every system recommendation, ensuring customers gain maximum value while installing compliant, high-performing solar solutions.

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Key Takeaways

• Federal solar rebates remain available in 2026

• State incentives can further reduce upfront costs

• Battery support is expanding in several regions

• An accredited installation is essential for eligibility

Solar power continues to boom across Australia as households and businesses look to cut electricity bills, reduce carbon emissions, and increase energy independence. The federal and state governments offer a range of rebates, incentives and programmes designed to make rooftop solar systems and battery storage more affordable, especially as the country pushes towards renewable energy targets. While some older universal electricity bill rebates have ended, strong support remains for solar and battery installations in 2026 through targeted incentives.

Here’s a comprehensive look at the top 10 solar rebates and incentives available in Australia in 2026, helping you get the best savings when going solar.

1. Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (STCs) – Federal

The Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) has long been the foundation of Australia’s solar rebates. It provides upfront discounts on solar PV systems through Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), which are automatically created when a qualifying system is installed by a Clean Energy Council (CEC) accredited installer.

Key points:

• Applies to systems under 100 kW.

• STCs act as a direct rebate, typically several thousand dollars off installation costs.

• Rebate value depends on system size, location and remaining years until the scheme ends in 2030.

• STC numbers gradually decline each year, so earlier installations yield larger rebates.

2. Cheaper Home Batteries Program – Federal

Starting from 1 July 2025, the federal government introduced the Cheaper Home Batteries Program to encourage battery uptake, essential for storing excess solar power and increasing self-consumption. This rebate is especially valuable in 2026.

Key points:

• Offers roughly 30% off eligible battery storage systems (rebate applied up to the first 50 kWh of usable capacity).

• Works with both new and existing solar systems.

• Rebates are automatically applied through accredited installers.

• Values decrease gradually over time, so early installations capture greater benefits.

3. Solar Panel Rebates in Victoria

Victoria has one of the most supportive state schemes for solar in Australia. The Solar Victoria programme offers specific panel rebates that can stack with federal incentives.

Key points:

• Eligible homeowners can receive up to $1,400 off solar panel installation costs.

• Interest-free loans of up to $1,400 are also available to cover upfront costs.

• Applies to both owner-occupiers and rental properties.

4. Solar Battery Rebates in Victoria

Victorian residents can also benefit from generous battery rebates in 2026.

Key points:

• Rebates up to about $2,950 off the upfront cost for eligible battery systems.

• Eligibility may include income or property value tests, depending on the specific programme.

• Can be combined with federal battery rebates.

5. State Feed-in Tariffs (FiTs)

Feed-in tariffs don’t reduce installation costs directly but provide ongoing value by paying you for solar electricity exported to the grid, effectively incentivising solar generation. FiTs vary by state and electricity retailer.

Typical features:

• Payments range based on local tariffs and market rates.

• Some regions offer higher rates for peak-time exports.

• Helps increase the return on solar investments over time.

6. Solar for Low-Income Households (NSW)

New South Wales offers assistance targeting low-income households, helping reduce upfront solar costs even further alongside federal STCs.

Key points:

• Rebates or financial support options for households eligible under income criteria.

• Designed to boost solar uptake where affordability is a barrier.

• Works in addition to federal schemes.

7. Local Council Solar Incentives

Some councils across Australia also run their own solar or battery incentives. These are generally smaller but can add significant savings when combined with federal and state schemes.

Typical perks:

• % rebates on systems (e.g., 20% off costs up to set maximums).

• Battery or storage rebates.

• Special programmes for low-income or community households.

8. Interest-Free Loans for Energy Upgrades

Several states and territories provide interest-free loans to help households spread the cost of solar installations. These can cover panels, batteries and other energy-efficient upgrades.

Highlights:

• Loans up to $10 000–$15 000 in some regions (e.g., the ACT).

• Low or zero interest makes solar more accessible.

• Helps reduce reliance on upfront savings.

9. Solar Hot Water Rebates

Solar not only powers homes but also hot water systems. Some states offer rebates for solar hot water or heat pump installations, a great way to further cut energy bills.

Typical features:

• Rebates up to around $1,000 in states like Victoria.

• Helps lower energy use from traditional electric or gas water heaters.

• Often stackable with solar panel rebates.

10. Interest-Free or Low-Interest Batteries and Storage Finance

Beyond outright rebates, many programmes include low-interest or interest-free financing for battery installations, particularly where upfront cost is a barrier. These arrangements make it easier for homeowners to invest in storage without heavy immediate expense.

Key features:

• Flexible payback plans.

• Helps spread upgrades over several years.

• May be tied to eligibility criteria like income or property type.

Making the Most of Solar Incentives in 2026

In 2026, Australia’s solar incentives continue to provide strong support for homeowners and small businesses. The combination of federal schemes (like STCs and the Cheaper Home Batteries Program) and state or local rebates can dramatically lower installation costs and improve long-term savings. Acting sooner rather than later is particularly wise, as some rebate values decrease over time under schemes like STCs and battery incentives.

Whether you’re aiming to cut electricity bills, increase energy independence, or contribute to Australia’s renewable transition, these rebates and incentives make solar a compelling investment, accessible, affordable, and future-focused.

Conclusion

Solar rebates and incentives in 2026 continue to make renewable energy a practical and financially sound choice across Australia. When incentives are combined with correct system sizing and accredited installation, solar delivers lasting savings and energy security. If you are considering solar for your home or business, contact us. Our team will guide you through current rebates and design a system that maximises savings while meeting all compliance requirements.

FAQs:

Are solar rebates still available in Australia in 2026?

Yes. Federal Small-scale Technology Certificates and various state-based solar incentives remain available in 2026, subject to eligibility requirements.

Can multiple solar incentives be combined?

In many cases, federal solar rebates can be combined with state or regional incentive programs, depending on local rules.

Do batteries qualify for rebates?

Some states offer battery rebates, grants, or interest-free loan options, subject to availability and eligibility criteria.

Are solar incentives available for businesses?

Yes. Businesses may access tax benefits, depreciation incentives, and renewable energy programs designed to support solar adoption.

Does installer choice affect rebate eligibility?

Yes. Solar systems must be installed by accredited professionals using approved components to qualify for rebates.

Will rebates reduce system quality?

No. Rebates reduce the upfront cost only and do not affect system quality when the system is properly designed and installed.