The Australian Government Cheaper Home Batteries Program, launched in July 2025, is a significant initiative designed to make solar battery storage more affordable and accessible for Australian households and small businesses. This program plays a crucial role in promoting renewable energy adoption, especially for off grid rural communities where reliable grid power is often unavailable or prohibitively expensive.
At Stand Alone Power Systems, we specialise in custom designed off grid solar power solutions tailored for rural Queensland, Northern New South Wales, and beyond. Understanding and leveraging programs like the Cheaper Home Batteries Program is essential for helping our customers reduce energy costs and increase energy independence.
What is the Cheaper Home Batteries Program
The program is administered by the Clean Energy Regulator CER as part of Australia Small scale Renewable Energy Scheme SRES. It provides an upfront discount of approximately 30 percent on the purchase and installation of eligible solar battery systems, reducing the initial investment required to add battery storage to residential and small business solar power setups.
This discount is based on the usable capacity of the battery and is designed to decrease progressively until 2030. Eligible batteries must meet technical requirements set by the CER to ensure effective, safe, and reliable energy storage.
For more information, visit the official program page Clean Energy Regulator Cheaper Home Batteries Program.
Importance for Off Grid Rural Australians
Reducing reliance on diesel generators
Historically, many off grid properties have relied on diesel generators to supplement solar power. These generators can be noisy, expensive to run, and produce greenhouse gas emissions. The program makes it more affordable for off grid residents to invest in larger battery banks that reduce or eliminate the need for generators.
Improving energy security and reliability
Battery storage allows off grid systems to store excess solar energy generated during the day for use at night and during cloudy weather. Affordable batteries enhance reliability, improving quality of life and operational efficiency for rural households and businesses.
Financial benefits
Battery systems represent a significant upfront cost, often thousands of dollars. The 30 percent discount helps reduce this burden, enabling more rural Australians to install or upgrade battery storage that saves money on fuel and maintenance over time.
Why customised off grid systems matter
Off grid solar systems require careful design tailored to each property unique energy needs and conditions. Factors such as daily energy use, available solar resource, equipment placement, and expansion plans all influence system design.
At Stand Alone Power Systems, we do not supply generic kits. Instead, we build custom systems for optimal performance, durability, and cost effectiveness. For example, some properties may require indoor installations with additional housing and ventilation, while others can install in sheds, reducing costs. Our personalised approach balances these factors for the best value.
How Stand Alone Power Systems supports participation
Navigating government rebate programs can be complex. As supplier and installer, we provide expert guidance to ensure customers
- Understand eligibility criteria for the program
- Select compliant battery products meeting CER standards
- Receive professional installation that meets requirements
- Benefit from assistance with rebate applications and claims
Our integrated approach means we take responsibility for system quality and warranty claims, avoiding confusion that can arise when products and installation come from different companies.
Practical steps to access the program
- Assess your energy needs Evaluate current and future usage and expansion plans.
- Consult an experienced installer Contact Stand Alone Power Systems for site assessment and custom design.
- Choose eligible products Select batteries that meet CER requirements.
- Complete installation Ensure safe, compliant setup tailored to your property.
- Apply for the discount We assist with applications to ensure upfront savings.
Case studies impact in rural Queensland and NSW
- A remote Queensland farm upgraded with a larger lithium ion battery bank, eliminating generator use and saving fuel costs.
- A Northern NSW rural home replaced aging lead acid batteries with a new system, reducing maintenance and improving reliability with program support.
Conclusion building a sustainable energy future
The Cheaper Home Batteries Program is vital for off grid rural Australians seeking energy independence. By reducing upfront costs, it makes battery storage more accessible. At Stand Alone Power Systems, we combine experience, custom design expertise, and full service support to help Queensland and NSW residents harness program benefits. Our tailored systems deliver lasting performance, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and provide peace of mind.
To explore how the program can support your off grid solar needs, contact Stand Alone Power Systems today for expert advice and a personalised solution.