General information only. Government programs change often — check the official source before you sign.
What changed on 1 May 2026?
The federal Cheaper Home Batteries discount is now tiered. Capacity up to 14 kWh earns the full certificate factor, capacity from 14 to 28 kWh earns 60%, and capacity from 28 to 50 kWh earns 15%. The aim is to keep supporting typical household batteries while reducing support for very large systems.
What it means in practice
If you buy a battery larger than 14 kWh, each extra kWh costs you more after the discount than the first 14 kWh did. Very large batteries still get some support, but the price gap with smaller systems widens.
| Usable capacity | Share of capacity on full discount |
|---|---|
| 10 kWh | All of it |
| 14 kWh | All of it |
| 20 kWh | 14 kWh full, 6 kWh at 60% |
| 30 kWh | 14 kWh full, 14 kWh at 60%, 2 kWh at 15% |
How to choose the right size
- Start with your evening use. Your bills or smart-meter data show how much you use after the sun goes down. A battery that covers most nights is usually the sweet spot.
- Check your solar. A battery only helps if your panels can fill it. In winter, a big battery may never fully charge.
- Think about backup. If backup during blackouts matters, size for the circuits you want to run, not the whole house.
- Plan ahead. An EV or a switch from gas may increase evening use — but some batteries can be expanded later.
Don’t let deadlines rush you
Rule changes often trigger “buy now” pressure. The regulator has warned retailers not to promise installation dates they can’t meet. A well-sized battery installed after a change can still be better value than an oversized one rushed in before it.
For indicative prices, see our battery cost guide.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
Is a 13.5 kWh battery still fully covered?
Capacity up to 14 kWh earns the full certificate factor under the tiered rules. Confirm the exact discount on your quote.
Can I add more battery capacity later?
Some systems are modular and can be expanded. Ask whether added modules would be eligible for any discount at that time.