Maximizing Your Subsidy

A common question is: "Can I claim the federal rebate AND my state rebate?" The answer is usually YES, but the rules are specific.

The "Stack" Strategy

Here is the ideal stack for a homeowner in 2025:

1. Federal STC (Panels): This is automatic. It reduces the upfront cost of the panels by ~$2,500.
2. Federal Battery Rebate: This is new (July 2025). It reduces the battery cost by ~$2,000 - $3,000.
3. State Loans (e.g., VIC/NSW): You can often use an interest-free state loan to pay for the balance remaining after the federal rebates are applied.
4. VPP Incentive: Finally, you sign up for a Virtual Power Plant. This gives you ongoing bill credits or an upfront cash payment (sometimes $1,000+) for allowing the grid to use your battery occasionally.

The "One Dip" Rule

The main restriction is usually on state programs. For example, you typically cannot claim a NSW Battery Rebate AND a NSW Battery Loan for the same system. You have to pick one. However, you can almost always stack a Federal incentive with a State incentive.