NSW Battery Incentives (FAQs)

What is the NSW Government battery rebate?

The NSW Government battery rebate offers eligible homeowners and businesses between $1,600 and $2,400 off the upfront installation cost of a solar battery. Additionally, there’s a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) incentive of $250 to $400 that can be claimed twice over a six-year period. Learn more about how to access the NSW Battery Incentive and other incentives through the official NSW Government site.
Who qualifies for the NSW Government solar battery rebate?

To qualify for the NSW Government solar battery rebate, you must already have solar panels installed and use an approved supplier, also known as an Accredited Certificate Provider (ACP), to install the battery. The battery capacity must be between 2kWh and 28kWh, and the incentive is available starting from 1 November 2024.
Why are the incentives not available until November?

The incentives will be available from 1 November 2024 to give the Scheme Administrator time to establish its compliance processes, accredit the approved suppliers and engage and train staff for conducting audits.
What is an “Approved Supplier”?

Approved suppliers are known as Accredited Certificate Providers (ACPs). These are businesses that have been accredited by the Scheme Administrator to conduct specific installations and upgrades under the Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS)
Can I get the battery rebate if I don’t have solar panels?

Yes, the NSW Battery Incentive is available for homes and businesses installing both solar and battery systems simultaneously. The rebate can be applied to the entire system installation, allowing you to enjoy upfront savings on both solar panels and battery storage.
How do Virtual Power Plant (VPP) incentives work?

When you connect your battery to a Virtual Power Plant (VPP), you can receive an additional $250 to $400 incentive. VPPs allow homeowners to share excess stored solar energy with the grid, improving grid stability. This incentive can be claimed twice, with a minimum of three years between claims.
What size battery qualifies for the NSW Battery Incentive?

The NSW Battery Incentive applies to solar batteries with a nominal capacity between 2kWh and 28kWh. This ensures that the battery is suitable for most residential and small business energy needs while complying with the state’s energy storage standards.
Is the NSW Battery Incentive a direct payment?

No, the NSW Battery Incentive is not a direct payment to customers. Instead, it is usually applied as an upfront discount provided by the approved supplier during installation. Different suppliers may offer different pricing models, so it’s important to get quotes from multiple suppliers.
Can I claim the rebate for an already-installed battery?

The NSW battery installation rebate is only available for new battery installations. However, if you already have a solar battery installed, you can still claim the VPP incentive by connecting your battery to a Virtual Power Plant, provided your battery meets the required technical and warranty standards.
Can I receive the battery incentive if I am off-grid?

No. The PDRS aims to reduce the load on the electricity grid. Off-grid batteries cannot help reducing the load.
Why is eligibility limited to batteries between 2 and 28kWh in Capacity?

This is to be consistent with schemes in other Australian states. Most eligible sites will only need batteries under 28kWh. The national average energy use for a five-person household is 25kWh per day.
What Solar Batteries Qualify for the Rebate?
The batteries on the approved list will have to meet certain specifications including:
- Storage size between 2 and 28kWh
- 10-year product warranty
- Operate in a temperature range of -10 to 50°C
- Usable capacity of at least 70% after 10 years
- Have a battery management system and internet connection for control and monitoring of the battery and allowing the battery to connect to a VPP
Can I pick the make and model of the battery that I will install?

Yes. Provided that the model appears on the approved product list specified by the Scheme Administrator and all the equipment and implementation requirements specified in the Rule are met.
Solar Secure will provide you the available options.
What safety considerations should I prioritise when installing a home solar battery?

Ensure compliance with relevant Australian standards and regulations for installation and operation. Choose proper battery design, ventilation, and professional installation to prevent overheating and ensure optimal operation. Approved suppliers will need to work with tradespeople who are licensed to do the work.