Labor has announced that it will roll out a $2.3 billion Cheaper Home Batteries Program for households and small businesses, if reelected.
Through the program, small businesses will be able to purchase a typical battery with a 30 per cent discount on installation costs. The program would begin on 1 July 2025. Batteries installed from now to July 1 will also be eligible if Labor is reelected – but these can’t be switched on until July 1.
According to Labor, the measure will save small businesses and households around $4,000 in battery installation costs.
Those with existing solar could save up to $1,100 off their energy bill per year, while a household installing a new solar and a battery system could save up to $2,300 a year – up to 90 per cent of a typical family electricity bill.
Batteries with capacity of up 50 kWh would be eligible. However, a system up to 100kWh can be installed, according to Energy Minister Chris Bowen.
If you live in a state that already has discounts on battery installation, these would apply alongside the new Cheaper Home Batteries scheme.
The announcement comes just days after Labor promised to renew the $20,000 instant asset write-off for another year – again, if reelected. It seems the party is ramping up its efforts to court the small-business election vote.
