The Minns Labor Government is helping NSW businesses lower their energy bills by cutting the upfront cost of batteries by around 20 to 40 per cent.
From 1 September 2026, eligible businesses including commercial and industrial operations will be able to get a new upfront discount on the cost of battery installation through government-accredited suppliers.
The discount amount is related to the size of the battery, meaning larger batteries attract bigger discounts. For example, a small-sized business such as a grocery store could receive a discount of around $37,000, and a medium-sized business such as a dairy farm could receive a discount of around $355,000.
The new incentive can be combined with the Australian Government’s discounted rooftop solar for commercial buildings scheme to further help businesses lower their power bills.
The new discount also applies to apartments, for owners corporations to use in shared spaces.
Incentives will be available for businesses installing batteries between 20 kWh and 30,000 kWh. A 20 to 50 kWh battery could support small businesses such as restaurants, takeaway shops and convenience stores. The discount is also available for apartment buildings with four or more units installing a battery between 20 kWh and 200 kWh.
The existing Virtual Power Plant incentive is also being expanded to include batteries up to 50 kWh, so small businesses and homes that join could be eligible for an incentive of up to $1,000. This will enable more businesses to connect stored energy to the grid, helping supply power during periods of peak electricity demand.
The Minns Labor Government is also providing other incentives to small businesses to upgrade equipment, appliances and systems processes to make them more energy efficient.
This is in addition to cost-of-living benefits available to households. Home battery uptake in NSW continues to grow rapidly, with around 10,000 new batteries being installed every month.
For further information on how to make your home or business more energy efficient, visit: www.energy.nsw.gov.au/apartment-batteries or www.energy.nsw.gov.au/business-batteries
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said:
“NSW wants more batteries, and these changes will help more people cut their power bills, whether they are running a business or living in an apartment.
“The Minns Labor Government will help businesses unlock major savings through renewable energy, reducing their long-term operating costs, improving competitiveness and supporting jobs across NSW.”
