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Can I make money from my solar system when Feed-in Tariffs drop to zero?

  • matthewfaulkner10
  • Oct 6
  • 3 min read
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Australia’s home electrification push just got a major boost. Under the federal government’s $2.3 billion Cheaper Home Batteries Program, eligible households and small businesses can now access a generous subsidy—covering up to 30% of the upfront cost of installing a small-scale solar battery.

With over 4 million homes already sporting rooftop solar, but only a fraction using batteries, this initiative is designed to bridge the gap and unlock serious energy savings.


How Much Is the Subsidy?

  • Up to $372 per kWh of usable battery capacity

  • Applies to systems between 5kWh and 100kWh (nominal capacity)

  • Capped at the first 50kWh of usable capacity

  • No income testing—all households and small businesses qualify

  • Subsidy will gradually reduce to around $188/kWh by 2030, so early adopters benefit most

You can combine batteries to meet the minimum size requirement, and the program complements existing state-level rebates—meaning South Australians may be eligible for multiple incentives.


What Does a Battery Cost?

Battery prices vary depending on size and brand:

Battery Size

Typical Cost

Estimated Subsidy

Net Cost After Subsidy

5kWh

~$7,000

~$1,800

~$5,200

11.5kWh

~$14,000

~$4,000

~$10,000

18kWh

~$20,000

~$6,600

~$13,400

Thanks to the rebate, payback periods have dropped from 8–10 years to just 5–7 years, depending on usage and system size.


Twilight Energy recommends Tesla and Sigenergy batteries
Twilight Energy recommends Tesla and Sigenergy batteries

Choosing the Right Battery

There are over 80 battery models available in Australia, with popular brands including:

  • Tesla Powerwall

  • BYD

  • Sigenergy

  • Sungrow

  • Alpha ESS


Of these, Twilight recommends Tesla and Sigenergy batteries, for their reliability, value and ease of installation.

Most households find that a battery between 8–13kWh suits their needs. The ideal size depends on:

  • Daily electricity usage

  • Desired blackout protection

  • How much grid independence you want

Twilight Energy can help you assess your energy profile and recommend a system that fits your lifestyle and budget- even if you don't have much available roofspace.


Can You Eliminate Your Energy Bill?

Yes—almost. With rooftop solar and a battery, households can save up to $2,300 per year, slashing up to 90% of a typical electricity bill. For example:

A 10kWh battery paired with a 5kW solar system could reduce a $2,500 annual bill to just $500.

However, discipline matters. Households often increase their electricity use after installing a battery, which can erode savings. Smart energy habits = maximum impact.


Many Twilight customers pair their solar with an EV charger, like this 25kW Sigenergy system
Many Twilight customers pair their solar with an EV charger, like this 25kW Sigenergy system

Can You Earn Money from Excess Power?

It’s possible, but feed-in tariffs are shrinking. To maximise returns:

  • Export power during high-value periods (e.g. evenings)

  • Use smart software to automate battery discharge

  • Join a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) to access wholesale rates and ongoing credits

All on-grid battery systems must be VPP-compatible to qualify for the rebate, but participation is optional.

Twilight has a deep understanding of the energy industry energy and can recommend retail electricity plans that reward you for exporting excess electricity at times when retailers value it- usually between 5pm-9pm.


Can You Install It Yourself?

No. Battery installation must be completed by a certified professional and signed off with a certificate of electrical compliance. DIY installs won’t qualify for the rebate—and could pose safety risks.


Is It Safe?

Absolutely. Home batteries are regulated under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme and must:

  • Be listed on the Clean Energy Council’s approved product list

  • Be installed by a Solar Accreditation Australia certified installer

  • Meet state-level safety standards

With over 300,000 home batteries already installed across Australia and minimal incidents reported, the technology is proven and secure.


Ready to Power Up?

Twilight Energy is here to help South Australians take full advantage of this game-changing rebate. Whether you're upgrading an existing solar system or starting fresh, we’ll guide you through product selection, installation, and compliance—so you can enjoy cleaner, cheaper energy with confidence.

Contact us to explore your options and lock in your subsidy before it drops.

 
 
 

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