Solar Battery Rebate Changes on 1 May 2026: Must Know
Australia’s solar battery market is about to shift in a major way. The Federal Government’s Cheaper Home Batteries Program , which has driven battery affordability since mid-2025, is introducing new rules that come into effect on 1 May 2026 . These changes will directly influence how much homeowners receive as a rebate, particularly for larger battery systems. As a result, thousands of Australians are reassessing their installation plans to make sure they maximise savings before the rebate structure changes. This guide explains exactly what is changing, how the new tiered system works, what the cost impacts look like, and whether you should install a battery before May 2026. Why the 1 May 2026 Battery Rebate Changes Matter The 2026 update affects everyone planning to install a battery, regardless of whether they live in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland or South Australia. Under the current scheme, rebates apply evenly across eligible battery sizes. After 1 May 2026 , the cal...