As Australia pushes toward a cleaner, more energy-independent future, the major political parties have taken different stances on solar battery policy. Whether you’re a homeowner, small business, or just solar-curious, understanding the differences can help you make smarter energy decisions.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of Labor and Liberal policies on solar batteries in Australia:
| Policy Area | Labor Party | Liberal Party |
| 💰 Core Policy | $2.3 billion Cheaper Home Batteries Program to subsidise solar battery costs by ~30% | No dedicated national solar battery subsidy announced |
| 🏡 Eligibility | Households, small businesses, and community facilities with existing or new solar panels | N/A |
| ⚡ Battery Size Supported | 5kWh – 50kWh usable capacity (install up to 100kWh, but only 50kWh is subsidised) | N/A |
| 🌐 VPP-Ready Requirement | Batteries must be Virtual Power Plant (VPP) capable – participation not mandatory | N/A |
| 💳 Subsidy Value | Approx. $372 per usable kWh (e.g. ~$4,000 off an 11.5kWh battery) | N/A |
| ⏰ Timeframe | Starts 1st July 2025 the batteries need to be activated/commissioned (batteries installed now may qualify if Labor wins election) | N/A |
| 🧾 Double-Dipping Allowed? | Yes, can combine with existing state rebates (e.g. NSW, WA) | N/A |
| 🏘️ Multiple Properties? | Yes, one battery per property eligible | N/A |
| 💬 Key Comments | “Cheaper, cleaner energy for households.” – PM Anthony Albanese | Criticised as a “budget bomb” favoring wealthier households – Liberal response |
| 🔄 Broader Plan | Includes $800M for social housing efficiency upgrades & $100M for community energy projects | Supports broader energy mix – including gas & nuclear exploration |
Ac Coupled Battery: FranklinWH, Tesla Power Wall and Sonnen Battery.
Dc Coupled: Sungrow Battery, Goodwe Lynx and many more coming .
🟢 What This Means for You
If you’re planning a solar panel installation in Sydney or looking to upgrade with a battery system in 2025, Labor’s policy could make this significantly more affordable. For those in states like NSW or WA, double incentives may make batteries more accessible than ever.
On the other hand, the Liberal Party has not proposed a similar subsidy but focuses on diversifying Australia’s energy sources.
⚡ Power Your Home or Business with Opera Solar Energy
With expert advice, trusted brands like Tesla Powerwall, Sungrow, and Sonnen, and a commitment to high-quality installations, Opera Solar Energy helps you take full advantage of rebates and smart battery solutions.
✅ Get a free quote today
✅ Ask us how to stack Labor’s federal subsidy with your local state rebate
👉 Contact Opera Solar Energy or call us today to get started!
