How To Access The NSW Battery Incentive

The NSW Government is launching the NSW solar battery rebate on November 1st, 2024, as part of the Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS).

The PDRS program will allow homes and businesses with existing solar PV systems to maximise energy efficiency and reduce electricity costs by installing battery storage and connecting to a Virtual Power Plant (VPP).

This guide offers a step-by-step guide on how to access the NSW battery incentive, equipment requirements, and how the PDRS supports the program.

But first:

What Is Included In The NSW Battery Incentive?

Eligible NSW homes and businesses may save up to $2,400 off the upfront installation costs of a battery (solar battery size dependent). You can also claim an additional $250-$400 for connecting the solar battery to a VPP.

This incentive aims to create a more reliable and stable electricity grid while reducing fossil fuel use during peak periods. It will also contribute to reducing emissions and achieving the state’s goal of creating a net zero percent emission by 2050.

Eligibility Requirements For The NSW Battery Incentive

To be eligible for the NSW Battery Incentive, these are the requirements:

• You must already have a solar PV system installed
• The battery choice must be within a capacity of 2 kWh – 28 kWh
• Your battery installer needs to be an approved supplier under the Accredited Certificate Provider (ACP)

Luckily for NSW residents and businesses, the incentive’s requirements are quite broad. However, it is worth noting that these incentives will only be available for batteries installed from November 1st, 2024.

Working with a quality installer means the battery selected will meet the specific performance standards

How To Access The NSW Battery Incentive

Verify Your Eligibility

To be eligible, you must be a home or business owner in NSW with an existing rooftop solar PV system that complies with relevant standards and regulations.

Choose an Accredited Installer

As we mentioned above, to be eligible, you must confirm that your installer is partnered with an accredited certificate provider. Solar Battery Group is partnered with an ACP, meaning we are able to start providing customers with the incentive from November 1st. You can contact the team at Solar Battery Group for a no-obligation chat. Or request a callback at a time that suits you here.

Battery Selection

Working with a quality installer means the battery selected will meet the specific performance standards, such as warranty and capacity requirements, and ensure that it’s compatible with your existing inverter. Solar Battery Group can help guide this process and meet all compliance requirements.

Complete Required Documentation

As with any incentive program, there will be required paperwork to complete to allow you to make the claim. In this case, you must sign a nomination form allowing the ACP to claim the incentive on your behalf. After completing this step, finalising your installation contract and submitting the paperwork will secure your incentive. With Solar Battery Group, you can rest assured that we’ll handle all the paperwork for you, allowing us to apply the incentive directly at the point of sale.

And lastly,

Schedule Installation

Once documentation is complete, we will arrange a date for installation. Your installer will manage the necessary connections with your network provider and electricity retailer to activate your battery system.

Battery Equipment Requirements

Approved Equipment List

Batteries must appear on the NSW-approved product list that will be released closer to the incentive start date.

Storage Capacity

Batteries must have a usable storage capacity between 2 kWh and 28 kWh, as verified on the approved list.

Connectivity and Control

The equipment should be internet-connectable and controllable, allowing you to manage and program the system.

10-Year Warranty

The solar battery must carry a 10-year warranty, guaranteeing at least 70% usable capacity retention after this period. Warranty specifics should include conditions for “normal use,” such as:

• Temperature Range: Operation within -10°C to 50°C.
• Warranted Throughput: A minimum of 3.65 MWh per kWh of usable battery capacity over its lifespan.

Understanding the Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS)

The NSW battery incentive operates under the Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS), which is designed to reduce strain on the electricity grid by promoting energy storage systems. Here’s what you need to know about how the PDRS works:

Peak Reduction Certificates (PRC)

Installing an eligible battery allows the installer to claim Peak Reduction Certificates. These certificates play a critical role in balancing energy demand and reducing peak loads on the grid.

Role of Accredited Certificate Providers (ACP)

Accredited Certificate Providers (ACPs) work alongside installers to manage the certificates required for the incentive. They ensure compliance with scheme requirements and handle the documentation for auditing purposes.

Scheme vs. Rebate

Unlike traditional rebates, the PDRS incentive is applied at the point of sale. This means that your installer will provide the discount upfront, in partnership with an ACP, by claiming the Peak Reduction Certificates.

Duration of the Scheme

The PDRS is scheduled to run until 2030. It encourages the long-term adoption of energy storage systems and contributes to sustainable energy goals across NSW.

With straightforward eligibility requirements, this initiative makes adopting battery storage more accessible than ever.

Benefits Of Claiming The NSW Battery Incentive

Maximise Solar Power

Installing a battery allows households and businesses to store surplus solar energy generated during the day for use at night, reducing their dependence on grid electricity.

Increase Grid Stability

The widespread use of batteries will enhance grid stability and reliability by supplying backup power and easing pressure during peak demand periods.

Reduce Electricity Bills

Using stored solar energy, homes and businesses will experience lower electricity costs, especially during peak demand times.

The NSW Battery Incentive, coming this November, is an incredible opportunity for households and businesses to maximise their solar energy use, reduce electricity bills, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

With straightforward eligibility requirements, this initiative makes adopting battery storage more accessible than ever.

Now is the time to take action. Contact Solar Battery Group and speak with an accredited installer to explore your options.