If you’re running an off-grid solar setup, you’ve probably missed out on just about every battery rebate program that’s ever come out. State schemes like the one in SA or VIC? Grid-only. Virtual Power Plants? Can’t join ‘em. But that’s about to change.

The Australian Labor Party has announced a federal home battery rebate – and for the first time, off-grid homes will be eligible.

Let’s break it down 👇

🏡 What’s the Rebate All About?

It’s called the “Cheaper Home Batteries Program” – a $2.3 billion plan to make battery storage cheaper and more common across Aussie homes. The goal is to get over 1 million batteries installed by 2030. The program is set to kick off from 1 July 2025 if Labor wins the next federal election in May.

Here’s what’s included:

• Roughly 30% off the cost of a battery system, upfront.
• Works with new or existing rooftop solar.
• Applies to battery sizes between 5kWh and 50kWh (you can install bigger, but the rebate only covers the first 50kWh).
• The battery must be VPP-ready – but that doesn’t mean you have to actually join one.
• Can be used on top of state rebates (so yes, you can stack savings).
• The system must be installed by a CEC-accredited installer using approved battery models.

⚡ Do Off-Grid Systems Qualify?

Yes – and that’s a big deal.

Most battery rebate schemes up until now have left off-grid homes out in the cold. But Labor’s new policy specifically allows off-grid households to claim the rebate, as long as:

• The battery is on the approved list (VPP-ready models).
• The installation meets standard compliance and safety rules.
• It’s paired with rooftop solar (which every off-grid system already is, realistically).

Even though you can’t participate in a VPP if you’re not grid-connected, Labor has confirmed that just being “VPP-capable” is enough. So if you’re running a proper off-grid solar and battery system – you’re good to go.

This means rural properties, lifestyle blocks, bush homes, tiny houses, and eco-retreats finally get a shot at proper government support.

🕐 When Can You Claim It?

• Start date: 1 July 2025
• Systems installed after the policy announcement (early April 2025) may be eligible if they’re not turned on until July. So you can get ahead of the rush, install now, and flick the switch later.
• The rebate will run until 2030, but the value will go down over time – just like the solar panel rebate.

💰 How Much Will You Save?

Expect around $370–$380 per usable kWh of battery storage. For a 10kWh battery, that’s about $3,700–$3,800 off the upfront price. On a 15kWh or 20kWh system – you could save $5K or more, just from this one rebate.

If your state (like VIC or NSW) still has a battery scheme going, you might be able to stack that too. That could mean $7K–$10K in total rebates on the right system.

🛠️ What Do You Need To Do?

• Make sure your battery is on the CEC approved list.
• Use an installer who’s accredited (not a backyard job).
• Pair the battery with rooftop solar – which you’re already doing if you’re off-grid.

Your installer will usually handle the paperwork. The rebate works like the solar STCs – the discount comes off your invoice, no need to claim it manually.

🎯 Why This Matters

This is the first national battery subsidy in Australia – and it’s the first time off-grid properties have been invited to the party.

If you’ve been holding off on upgrading your battery system – or setting up a new one – this could shave thousands off your install cost. And if you live somewhere remote, that makes a real difference.

Whether you’re on a farm, in the bush, or just sick of relying on the grid, this rebate might finally put energy independence within reach.

Want to stay updated or plan your off-grid setup before the rebate hits? Give us a buzz at 100UP – we design and install off-grid systems all over Australia, and we’ll make sure you’re eligible when the time comes.