Victoria Solar Rebate 2025 | Ultimate Guide for Solar Panel & Battery Incentives in Victoria

This is the ultimate guide about the Victoria solar rebate. It will help you make smart choices about switching to solar energy in 2025. This complete guide will show you all the solar panel rebate and incentives available in Victoria in 2025, whether you’re an eco-conscious homeowner, a landlord, or an investor. You can use these incentives to lower your energy costs and help create a more sustainable future.

As we move into 2025, the demand for renewable energy is higher than ever, and Victoria is leading the way in solar power rebate and incentive. The Solar Victoria program helps people and businesses switch to solar energy by lowering the costs of doing so by a lot. The Victorian Government has a bigger plan to cut greenhouse gas emissions and reach its sustainability goals. These programs are a part of that plan.

By taking advantage of these solar panel incentives, you can reduce your electricity bills, increase your home’s value, and lower your carbon footprint. With the continuous evolution of solar energy technology and government rebates, there has never been a better time to make the switch.

The topics we will learn about in this guide are

• Overview of All Solar Rebate Programs in Victoria in 2025
• Understanding Solar Power Rebates and Incentives
• Types of Solar Rebate and Battery Incentives in Victoria in 2025
• Understanding The Victoria Solar Rebates: Solar Panels (PV) Rebates in 2025
• Understanding Solar Battery Rebate In Victoria in 2025
• Understanding Hot Water Rebates in Victoria in 2025
• Understanding Solar for Apartments Program In Victoria in 2025
• Understanding Cheaper Home Batteries Program in Victoria in 2025
• Understanding STCs in Victoria in 2025

Overview of All Solar Rebate Programs in Victoria in 2025

Program	Rebate Amount	Eligibility	Important Notes
Solar Panel (PV) Rebate	Up to $1,400 (50% of installation cost)	Victorian homeowners, income < $210,000	Must be primary residence, $3 million max property value
Solar Battery Loan	–	–	(not available)
Solar for Rentals	Up to $1,400	Rental providers with qualifying properties	Property value under $3 million
Hot Water Rebate	Up to $1,400 (for Australian-made systems)	Homeowners, existing systems at least 3 years old	Can combine with other rebates like solar panels
Solar for Apartments	Up to $2,800 per apartment	Owners corporations of multi-unit buildings	Installation must be approved by owners corporation
Cheaper Home Batteries Program	Discount of at least 30%	Homeowners, small businesses, community facilities	Battery system must meet program’s criteria
Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs)	Reduces upfront cost by ~$2,300	Homeowners and businesses installing solar systems	Value fluctuates with market conditions
Victoria Feed-in Tariff	Decrease from 3.3 cents to 0.04 cents per kWh	–	–

Understanding Solar Power Rebates and Incentives

Solar rebates and incentives are very important for decreasing the cost of installing solar panels for residential and commercial properties. These programs have made solar energy available to more people in Victoria. You can now invest in clean, renewable energy and save a lot of money on their energy bills at the same time.

What Are Solar Rebates?

Solar rebates are financial incentives provided by governments, utility companies, and organizations to reduce the upfront cost of installing solar energy systems. These rebates, which can be one-time payments or credits, are designed to encourage the adoption of solar energy and make renewable energy more affordable. By lowering the initial investment required for solar panel installations, it is offset by solar rebates, which promote environmental sustainability, energy independence, and economic growth. The process typically involves verifying eligibility, completing the installation of solar panels, and submitting an application for approval. Availability and requirements vary by Rebates, as well as their locations, are often time-sensitive, so it is important to stay informed about local solar rebate programs and their deadlines.

How Do Solar Rebates Work?

Solar rebates help lower the cost of solar panels by giving homeowners or businesses money to install solar energy systems. Governments at the local, state, and federal levels, as well as utility companies, usually offer these solar incentives to get people to use renewable energy. To get a solar rebate, individuals must meet particular criteria, have a certified solar installation, and fill out an application for the rebate. Once the rebate is approved, it is usually given as a credit or direct payment. Solar rebates can be different in different places, and it’s important to keep up with local solar rebate programs so you can save the most money and lower the overall cost of going solar.

Types of Solar Rebate and Battery Incentives in Victoria in 2025

In 2025, there are several types of solar and battery incentives available in Victoria. Including local state-level Victoria Solar rebate and federal government solar and battery incentives.

The List of Victoria Local State-Level Solar Rebate and Battery Incentives and Federal Government Solar Rebate & Battery Incentives

Victoria Solar Rebate (State-Level)	Federal Government Solar Rebate & Battery Incentives In Victoria
Solar Panel (PV) Rebate	Cheaper Home Batteries Program
Solar Battery Loan  (not available)	Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs)
Solar for Rentals Program
Hot Water Rebate
Solar for Apartments Program

Understanding The Victoria Solar Rebates: Solar Panels (PV) Rebates In 2025

The Solar Homes Program in Victoria will still help eligible households save money on their energy bills in 2025 by giving them rebates on solar panels (PV) and interest-free loans. Here’s a brief overview of the program’s benefits, eligibility, and application process.

How the Solar Panel Rebate Works in Victoria

The Solar Panel Rebate gives Victorian homes a discount of up to 50% off  the cost of solar panel installation, up to a maximum of $1,400. This rebate is only given after all other discounts, like Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), have been taken into account. Also, qualified applicants can choose an interest-free loan of up to $1,400 that they can pay back over 04 years. The retailer gets the rebate directly, and it is taken off the installation bill. A New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC) authorized solar retailer must install the system using only products that are on the Solar Victoria product lists.

Eligibility Criteria of Victoria Solar Rebate

To qualify for the Victoria Solar Rebate (Solar Panel PV Rebate) in 2025, applicants must:

• Be a homeowner in Victoria with a house worth less than $3 million.
• Live in the property as their principal house. 
• Have a combined household taxable income of less than $210,000 per year.
• Applicants must not have received more than two rebates for the same property during the current financial year.
• Ensure the property has not previously received a solar panel (PV) rebate or a solar battery rebate under the Solar Homes Program.
• Get a quote in writing from a certified solar retailer, then submit it to the Solar Victoria website.
• Obtain Distributed Network Service Provider (DNSP) preapproval before connecting and exporting to the grid.
• Present the required paperwork, such as proof of income, proof of property ownership, and two forms of identification.

How to Apply for Victoria Solar Rebate

1. Check Eligibility: To make sure you are eligible for the rebate, review the criteria for being eligible.
2. Obtain a Quote: To obtain a written quote for the installation of a solar panel system, get in connection with New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC)-approved solar retailer.
3. Submit Application: Apply online by submitting all necessary paperwork via the Solar Victoria portal.
4. Receive QR Code: Once approved, you will receive an email with a unique QR code.
5. Installation: To arrange for the installation of your solar system, work with the retailer of your choice.
6. Final Payment: Once the rebate has been applied, pay the retailer any outstanding balance.
7. Loan Repayment: Repayments will start 30 days after installation is approved if you chose the interest-free loan option.

Benefits of Victoria Solar Rebate

• • Upfront Savings: Receive a rebate of up to $1,400, reducing the initial cost of installing a solar panel system.
  • Interest-Free Loan: Option to apply for a loan up to $1,400, repayable over four years, to further ease financial outlay.
  • Energy Savings: Potential to save over $1,000 annually on energy bills by generating your own solar power.
  • Environmental Impact: Contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting renewable energy initiatives.
  • Additional Rebates: Eligibility to apply for other rebates, such as the hot water rebate, to maximize energy efficiency.

Important Dates

• Rebate Release Dates: Rebates are released on the second Wednesday of each month.
• Installation Timelines:
  • Existing Homes: Installation should be completed within 120 days of receiving the QR code.
  • Homes Under Construction: Installation must occur within 270 days.

Understanding Solar Battery Rebate In Victoria In 2025

The Solar Homes Program in Victoria still helps eligible households save money on their energy bills in 2025 by giving them rebates on solar batteries and loans with no interest. Here is a quick look at how the Solar Battery Rebate program works, who is eligible for Victoria Solar rebate for Battery, the benefits of  Solar Battery Rebate, and how to submit an application.

Solar Battery Rebate in Victoria In 2025

Solar Victoria is no longer taking applications for interest-free loans for the installation of a battery system. The Australian Government’s Cheaper Home Batteries Program will take the place of the old state battery rebates on July 1, 2025. The goal of this federal program is to make home battery systems more affordable and available to families all over Victoria.

Understanding Hot Water Rebates in Victoria In 2025

In 2025, Victoria offers two main hot water rebate programs to help households reduce energy costs by upgrading to more efficient systems: the Solar Victoria Hot Water Rebate and the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) Program.

Solar Victoria Hot Water Rebate

• Rebate Amount: Up to $1,000 for eligible heat pump and solar hot water systems.
• Locally Made Incentive: If you choose a locally made product, the rebate increases to up to $1,400.

Eligibility Criteria for Solar Victoria Hot Water Rebate

1. Homeowners must have a taxable income that is less than $210,000.
2. Property values are under $3 million.
3. The existing system is at least 3 years old.
4. The property has not previously received a hot water or solar battery rebate under the Solar Homes Program.

How to Apply for Solar Victoria Hot Water Rebate

1. Obtain a written quote from an authorized retailer.
2. Submit the quote for pre-approval via the Solar Victoria portal.
3. Upon approval, receive a QR code to be scanned during installation.
4. Pay any remaining balance after the rebate is applied.

• Installation Timeline: Complete installation within 120 days of receiving the QR code.
• Emergency Installations: If your system breaks down, you can proceed with installation before receiving pre-approval but must provide proof of eligibility afterward 

How to Apply for Solar for Apartments Program 

1. Consultation: Engage with an authorized solar retailer to assess the building’s suitability for solar installation.
2. Owners Corporation Approval: Obtain approval from the owners corporation through a formal resolution.
3. Quote Submission: The retailer submits a detailed quote and system design to Solar Victoria.
4. Rebate Allocation: Upon approval, Solar Victoria allocates the rebate funding.
5. Installation: The authorized retailer installs the solar PV system.
6. Final Documentation: Submit necessary documentation, including certificates and invoices, to claim the rebate.

Understanding Solar for Apartments Program In Victoria In 2025

In 2025, Victoria’s Solar for Apartments Program continues to support residents in multi-unit dwellings—such as apartments, units, and townhouses—by providing financial assistance for installing solar panel (PV) systems. This initiative aims to help reduce energy costs and promote the adoption of renewable energy in shared living environments.

Overview of Solar for Apartments Program

• Funding: Eligible apartment owners and corporations can receive up to $2,800 per apartment to install solar PV systems.
• Eligibility: Available to multi-unit buildings where the owners corporation applies on behalf of the residents.
• Application Deadline: Applications for Round 2 closed on 28 February 2025.

Eligibility Criteria of Solar for Apartments Program

To qualify for the Solar for Apartments Program:

• Ownership Structure: The application must be submitted by the owner’s corporation of the building.
• Approval Process: The owners corporation must approve the installation through a formal resolution.
• System Design: The proposed solar PV system must be designed to meet the energy needs of the building and comply with relevant standards.
• Installation: The system must be installed by an authorized solar retailer and accredited installer.

How to Apply for Solar for Apartments Program 

1. Consultation: Engage with an authorized solar retailer to assess the building’s suitability for solar installation.
2. Owners Corporation Approval: Obtain approval from the owners corporation through a formal resolution.
3. Quote Submission: The retailer submits a detailed quote and system design to Solar Victoria.
4. Rebate Allocation: Upon approval, Solar Victoria allocates the rebate funding.
5. Installation: The authorized retailer installs the solar PV system.
6. Final Documentation: Submit necessary documentation, including certificates and invoices, to claim the rebate.

Benefits of Solar for Apartments Program

• Cost Savings: Residents can save up to $500 annually on energy bills.
• Environmental Impact: Contributes to reducing the building’s carbon footprint.
• Increased Property Value: Enhances the appeal of the property to potential buyers or renters.

Important Notes

• Rebate Expiry: Rebate funding is reserved for 70 calendar days after quote submission. If not approved within this period, the funding allocation is cancelled.
• Installation Timeline: Installation must be completed within 120 days of funding approval.
• Compliance: Ensure all installations comply with safety and quality standards.

Understanding Cheaper Home Batteries Program In Victoria In 2025

The Cheaper Home Batteries Program, launched on July 1, 2025, is a federal solar battery rebate initiative aimed at making home battery systems more affordable for households, small businesses, and community facilities across Australia, including Victoria. The program is part of a broader $2.3 billion investment to enhance the benefits of rooftop solar power and support grid resilience.

Overview of Cheaper Home Batteries Program

The solar battery rebate amount: Eligible participants can receive a discount of at least 30% on the upfront cost of installing a small-scale solar battery system. The rebate is based on the battery’s usable capacity and will gradually decrease until 2030.

Eligibility Criteria of Cheaper Home Batteries Program

The program is open to:

• Homeowners with an existing or new solar photovoltaic (PV) system.
• Small businesses and community facilities.
• Battery systems must have a usable capacity between 5 kWh and 100 kWh and be listed on the Clean Energy Council’s approved product list.

Key Requirements of Cheaper Home Batteries Program:

• Installation: Batteries must be installed by a licensed and accredited installer. The installation must comply with relevant state and territory electrical safety regulations.
• System Configuration: The battery must be installed with a new or existing solar PV system. Stand-alone battery installations without a solar PV system are not eligible.
• Virtual Power Plant (VPP) Capability: To be eligible for the rebate, the battery system must have the technical capability to participate in a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) at the time of installation.

How to Apply for Cheaper Home Batteries Program

1. Research: Determine your energy needs and select a battery system that meets the program’s criteria.
2. Obtain Quotes: Contact NETCC-accredited installers to receive quotes for the battery system and installation.
3. Apply: Submit your application through the Clean Energy Regulator’s official portal.
4. Approval: Upon approval, the rebate will be applied directly to the cost of the battery system.
5. Installation: Schedule and complete the installation with an accredited installer.

Benefits of Cheaper Home Batteries Program

• Cost Savings: With the rebate, the cost of a typical 10 kWh battery system could decrease from over $10,000 to as low as $6,000, depending on the system’s capacity and installation costs.
• Annual Savings: Households could save up to $2,300 annually on energy bills by storing excess solar power for use during peak demand periods.

Important Notes

• Rebate Limitations: The rebate applies to the first 50 kWh of a battery’s usable capacity. For example, a 70 kWh battery with a usable capacity of 60 kWh would only be eligible for rebates on the first 50 kWh.
• Program Phasing: The rebate amount will gradually decrease over time as battery prices are expected to decline. It’s advisable to apply sooner to maximize the rebate amount.
• Compatibility: Ensure that the selected battery system is compatible with your existing solar PV system and meets all technical requirements.

Understanding STCs In Victoria In 2025

Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs) are a federal incentive under the Australian Government’s Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). They aim to reduce the upfront cost of installing eligible small-scale renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, solar batteries, wind, hydro, and solar water heaters. Each STC represents 1 megawatt-hour (MWh) of renewable electricity generated, stored, or displaced by these systems.

How STCs Work in Victoria

• Eligibility: Homeowners and businesses installing eligible systems can earn STCs. The number of STCs depends on factors like system size, location, and installation date.
• Creation and Trading: STCs can be created by the system owner or assigned to a registered agent. They can be sold through the STC Clearing House or the open market.
• Discount Application: Most solar retailers apply the STC value as an upfront discount on the system’s purchase price. This reduces the initial cost for the consumer.

Benefits of STCs

• Upfront Savings: The value of STCs varies based on market conditions. For example, a 6.6 kW solar system in Melbourne might generate around 60 STCs, potentially reducing the upfront cost by approximately $2,300 to $2,400, depending on the current STC market price.
• Market Fluctuations: STC prices can fluctuate based on supply and demand. It’s advisable to check current prices when planning your installation.

Important Notes

• Deeming Period: STCs are typically created over a 5-year deeming period, which decreases by one year each January. For installations in 2025, the deeming period is 6 years, but it will reduce to 5 years in 2026.
• Eligibility for Batteries: Solar batteries installed with new or existing solar PV systems are eligible for STCs. However, only the first 50 kWh of usable capacity is eligible, and the battery must be listed on the Clean Energy Council’s approved product list.
• Program Duration: The SRES, and consequently the STC scheme, is set to run until 2030. After this period, the scheme will be phased out.

Victoria Feed-in Tariff

It’s important to note that the Essential Services Commission has proposed a significant reduction in the solar energy feed-in tariff for the 2025–26 financial year. The minimum feed-in tariff is set to decrease from 3.3 cents to 0.04 cents per kilowatt-hour. This change may affect households that export excess solar energy back into the grid. However, the Solar Homes Program continues to offer rebates and loans to support the adoption of solar energy.  Learn more

Future of Solar Energy in Victoria: What’s Next for 2025 and Beyond?

As we look to the future, we expect the use of solar energy in Victoria to keep growing quickly. The government’s support for solar energy, along with new technologies, will probably lead to even more rebates and incentives, making solar power cheaper and easier to get than ever.

Conclusion

Victoria solar rebate and incentives in 2025 offer significant financial and environmental benefits to those who install solar energy systems. With various programs and financial support available, it is an ideal time for both individuals and businesses to make the switch to solar energy. By taking advantage of these rebates, Victorians can save money, reduce their carbon footprint, and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.