The rebate for solar home batteries is changing from 1 May 2026 and retailers must be ready.

The Clean Energy Regulator (CER) says the existing rebate is only available for systems installed before 1 May and there will be no exceptions.

Those retailers who have sold home battery systems that are not installed by 1 May will remain eligible but will receive a reduced number of small-scale technology certificates (STCs) based on the changed rebate.

From 1 May 2026, the rebate will be tiered and adjusted according to the size of the battery, which could result in significant price differences for customers especially for larger systems.

The program changes were announced on 13 December 2025 giving industry more than 4 months' notice to get ready.

CER Executive General Manager, Carl Binning, said the CER does not have discretion, as the implementation date in the legislation is firm.

‘Retailers and installers need to be prepared,’ Mr Binning said.

‘We are aware of these pressures facing industry in the lead up to the 1 May program changes.

‘Most retailers are well organised and have planned ahead to manage the changes.

‘This is another reminder to retailers to only commit to what they can deliver. Be honest about your availability to install solar batteries when quoting jobs to customers.'

Rebates are based on the installation date, not the purchase date, and installers are being urged not to try and rush jobs to get them done before 1 May.

‘Safety is the number one priority, and installers can claim no more than 2 installations per day,’ Mr Binning said.

‘It’s very important that contracts entered into are honoured.

‘If you agree to a solar battery installation before 1 May but can’t deliver, you may be liable to pay the difference.’

Retailers and installers must comply with the laws under the Renewable Energy (Electricity) Regulations 2001 and Australian Consumer Law when advertising, selling and installing solar batteries.

If these requirements are not met, we will take compliance action.

‘Deceptive, misleading or unsafe behaviour will not be tolerated,’ Mr Binning said.

‘This is a high integrity scheme, with robust controls in place, and we’re going to enforce them.’

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and state and territory fair trading bodies will also be closely monitoring the industry to ensure consumers are protected from any predatory market behaviour.

Go to the CER’s online STC calculator to find out how many STCs a new solar battery may be eligible for, and the effect of the new tiering system.

Contact: media@cer.gov.au or 02 6159 3448