The short answer
SA solar customers receive the federal STC rebate (~$2,200-$3,900 on a 6.6-10kW system in May 2026) and, if buying a battery, the federal Cheaper Home Batteries rebate (~$311 per usable kWh, so ~$4,350 on a 14kWh battery). Both rebates are applied upfront by the installer. No state rebate is active in SA.
Federal STC rebate (Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme)
Every CEC-accredited solar install in Australia generates Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). 1 STC = 1 MWh of expected generation over the system's deeming period (10 years in 2026, reducing annually until 2030).
Approximate STC rebate in Adelaide (May 2026, STC value ~$37):
- 3kW: ~$1,000-$1,200
- 5kW: ~$1,700-$1,900
- 6.6kW: ~$2,200-$2,600
- 10kW: ~$3,500-$3,900
- 13kW: ~$4,500-$4,900
The installer claims the STCs and applies the discount upfront. You do not apply to the government. The system MUST be installed by a Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA, formerly CEC Accredited) installer using CEC-approved panels and inverter.
Federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program
Launched 1 July 2025. Discounts approximately 30% of the cost of an eligible home battery. May 2026 value: ~$311 per usable kWh.
Eligibility:
- Battery nominal capacity 5-100 kWh
- Rebate applies to the first 50 kWh of usable capacity only
- Homeowners, small businesses, community facilities eligible
- Not means tested
- One battery per electricity meter
- Stackable with state battery incentives (NSW / WA)
The rebate is applied upfront via STCs (same mechanism as solar). The taper schedule reduces the rebate every 6 months until 2030.
SA Home Battery Scheme - closed
The SA Home Battery Scheme (2018-2023) offered up to $3,000 toward battery installation for SA residents. It closed permanently in 2023 after using its full $100 million allocation. There is no current SA state battery scheme.
If you see ads for the 'SA Home Battery Scheme', they are out of date. Some installers may offer their own discount and call it a 'battery rebate', but no government SA scheme is active.
Other relevant programs
- Federal Home Energy Upgrades Fund - low-interest loans for energy efficiency upgrades through participating banks. Solar and batteries qualify.
- Small Business Energy Incentive (federal, 2023-2024 only - confirm if extended) - up to $20,000 bonus deduction for electrification.
- Instant asset write-off - businesses purchasing solar can claim instant deduction (subject to ATO thresholds).