WA Residential Battery Scheme: Things You Need to Know

Starting from July 1, 2025, the Western Australian Government will introduce 20,000 rebates for residential battery installations. These rebates will provide up to $5,000 for Synergy customers and up to $7,500 for Horizon Power customers, with the exact rebate amount depending on the battery’s capacity.

Synergy customers can receive a rebate of $500 per kilowatt hour (kWh) for a maximum of 10 kWh, benefiting up to 19,000 households. On the other hand, Horizon Power customers can qualify for a higher rebate of $750 per kWh, also capped at 10 kWh, with up to 1,000 eligible households.

To further encourage participation, a similar number of no-interest loans of up to $10,000 will be made available for households with low to moderate incomes.

The scheme will be introduced in several phases, starting on or before July 1, 2025. It will be managed by a third-party provider with experience in handling similar programs.

Related News: WA Labor to Boost Cost of Living Relief with Home Battery Scheme

Scheme Eligibility Criteria and Requirements

While the final terms of the WA Residential Battery Scheme are still being finalized with industry experts, key eligibility conditions have been outlined. Understanding these criteria is crucial for homeowners considering participating in the program.

Eligible Applicants:

• Residential properties in Western Australia, including those used for home businesses.
• The property must have a residential electricity account with Synergy or Horizon Power.
• Excluded from the scheme are properties owned by State, Commonwealth, or Local Government entities, financial institutions, telecommunications companies, and mining or resource companies.
• Each property connection can receive only one rebate or loan. However, landlords with a long-term tenancy agreement may qualify for an additional rebate.
• While all eligible households can apply for the rebate, loans are restricted to households below a government-determined income threshold.
• The minimum loan amount available is $2,000.

Rebate Compliant Battery System Installations:

• New, additional, and replacement battery systems with a minimum storage capacity of 5 kWh are eligible. New, additional, and replacement solar panels can also qualify for loan funding if installed as part of a package that includes a battery system. The minimum size for eligible solar systems will be determined through industry consultation.
• Battery systems must demonstrate Virtual Power Plant readiness, meaning they can connect to the electricity grid and respond to signals. This capability requires a continuous internet connection with regular testing.
• Additional minimum standards and system warranty requirements will apply. These details will be established in consultation with industry experts.

Retailer and Installer Requirements:

• Retailers and installers must have a registered business address in Western Australia.
• They must consistently meet financial and integrity standards.
• Previous pricing must be disclosed before each rebate round for transparency. The scheme administrator will develop the specific pricing disclosure arrangements.
• Retailers and installers need to show their capability to deliver under the scheme and maintain compliance with technical and safety standards. This includes undergoing compliance audits. Detailed accreditation and compliance requirements will be established through industry consultation.

You can also explore the details of the Solar Panel Rebate Program.

In a Nutshell

The WA Residential Battery Scheme is a landmark initiative designed to boost renewable energy use while reducing electricity costs for homeowners. By understanding the eligibility criteria and compliance requirements, potential participants can maximize the benefits of this scheme. As the rollout date approaches, further details will be clarified, offering more specific guidance to interested applicants.