The Cheaper Home Batteries Program is the Australian Government’s small-scale technology certificate (STC) rebate for home battery installations. As announced in December 2025, the program is moving to a tiered STC factor based on battery capacity, effective 1 May 2026.
What’s changing
From 1 May 2026, the STC factor applied to a battery installation tapers as capacity increases:
| Capacity installed | STC factor |
|---|---|
| 0–14 kWh (inclusive) | 100% |
| Above 14 kWh, up to 28 kWh (inclusive) | 60% |
| Above 28 kWh, up to 50 kWh (inclusive) | 15% |
Rebates are calculated on the installation date, not the date a contract is signed — installing before 1 May 2026 does not lock in current rebate levels if the physical installation happens after that date.
Why the change is happening
The Clean Energy Regulator (CER) is monitoring battery retailers and installers as the new tiers take effect. CER Executive General Manager Carl Binning has said retailers are responsible for giving customers accurate quotes that reflect the change, and for delivering on the contracts they sign:
“Retailers should not be promising installations before 1 May unless they are certain the installations can be completed on time. They need to be upfront with customers, schedule work responsibly, and explain the small-scale technology (STC) changes clearly, which could mean a significant price difference for customers.”
The CER has also said it will inspect installations and investigate installers who don’t meet safety and program requirements:
“Safety is our number one priority — we inspect battery installations, and we will investigate and remove bad players from the program. Installers are being urged to do it once and do it well.”
What this means if you’re considering a battery
- The rebate is highest for systems up to 14 kWh — larger systems still qualify, but at a reduced STC factor above that threshold.
- What matters for eligibility is the completed installation date, not the date you sign a contract.
- Ask any installer for a quote that already reflects the post-1-May tiers if your installation might land after that date.
This information reflects the Cheaper Home Batteries Program as confirmed by Tenet Tech on 12 August 2026. Rebate rules are set by the Clean Energy Regulator and may change — see the current rebate promotion for details, or get a free quote to discuss your eligibility.