Double the Benefit of the State Solar Battery Scheme

 The Minns and Albanese Labor Governments have teamed up to double the current benefit available when NSW households and small businesses install solar battery systems and connect them to a virtual power plant (VPP). This will effectively cut the upfront cost of a typical NSW system by around 30 per cent.

What is the PDRS?

The PDRS is the NSW Government’s peak demand reduction scheme that offers financial incentives for households to install and connect batteries. The scheme aims to reduce energy consumption during high peak demand times, which helps improve the reliability of the electricity grid and minimise blackouts. It also helps to place downward pressure on wholesale electricity prices, which can result in savings for consumers.

Incentives include an upfront discount of between $1600 and $2400 on the cost of a new battery, depending on its capacity. This is available through accredited suppliers, called Accredited Certificate Providers, and can be combined with the federal battery rebate.

To be eligible for the PDRS, your household must already have solar panels installed and your battery must be capable of connecting to a Virtual Power Plant (VPP). As an Accredited Certificate Provider, Solahart can provide expert advice on whether or not you’re eligible, conduct a detailed site assessment, and offer a fully customised solution.

How does the PDRS work?

The PDRS is designed to help you engage with colleagues, recognise their achievements and development, and reset priorities in support of your department’s goals. The process enables you to build strong relationships, encourage a two-way conversation, and create an environment where people feel valued and supported.

PDR rounds normally run from September to May, but this is flexible in line with business needs and can be tailored by faculty and departments. The 2025-2026 round is currently underway, and the process will conclude at the end of May 2026.

Reviewers are encouraged to log observations / outcomes in the People Manager or HR Organiser (reviewees). It is also a good idea to record the annual PDR meeting, either centrally or through an informal interim form. This is not mandatory, but it will facilitate a more efficient and effective review meeting. A template is available.

What are the benefits of the PDRS?

The state-based solar battery scheme NSW aimed to provide consumers with upfront payments and incentives when they connect their solar home batteries to a Virtual Power Plant (VPP). It’s a one-off payment that stacks on top of the federal battery rebate.

This incentive varies depending on the size of the battery and is given as an upfront discount by an approved supplier during the installation process. It can also be combined with the federal battery incentive to help households cut energy costs and make their battery systems pay for themselves faster.

As an accredited installer under the PDRS, Shoalhaven Solar can help you decide which solar battery system is right for your home and assist with the application process. We’re a one-stop renewable shop and will be with you every step of the way to ensure your new system is installed safely and professionally. To learn more about your options, contact us for a free, no obligation quote.

How do I apply for the PDRS?

The NSW Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS) and its associated solar battery rebate ended on June 30th 2025. However, the new Federal home battery rebate now offers NSW residents a significant upfront saving on their first solar battery which is capable of supporting the grid with renewable energy and helping your home to become more self-sufficient by storing excess solar generation for use at night and in cloudy periods.

You can also receive ongoing payments through your VPP provider for selling excess energy back to the grid – in much the same way as the existing solar feed-in tariffs work. You can find out more about the NSW VPP incentive by visiting the government’s website. Alternatively, we recommend using an accredited supplier such as Shoalhaven Solar who can assess your eligibility and perform the registration for you. You may need to pay admin or brokerage fees through your chosen ACP which can slightly reduce the amount of money you receive for joining a VPP.

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