The Federal Government has announced that funding for the Cheaper Homes Battery Program will be increased from $2.3 billion to $7.2 billion over the next 4 years. This is a welcome outcome for households, businesses and the electricity system more broadly.

From 1 May 2026, The value of Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) for solar batteries will scale by capacity, with larger systems receiving a progressively adjusted level of support based on their size. This approach preserves an approximate 30% discount across battery sizes, maintaining strong incentives for typical residential and small-business installations while continuing to support larger systems at scale.

Master Electricians Australia has consistently advocated for a continued battery subsidy, recognising the critical role batteries play in reducing peak demand, easing pressure on the grid and lowering energy costs for all consumers; not just those who install them.

Batteries are a practical tool for improving system resilience as Australia’s energy mix continues to evolve.

We welcome this announcement by the Government.

You can read more about the recent scheme updates here.