Eligible Victorian households can receive a rebate of up to $1,400 towards the cost of installing a solar panel (PV) system. The rebate is also available for homes under construction and for rental properties. You can reduce your upfront cost even further by opting in to an interest-free loan matched to the rebate amount. As an authorised solar retailer, Solaraide manages the rebate process for you from quote to installation.

What the solar panel (PV) rebate covers

The Solar Homes Program rebate helps eligible owner-occupiers install a solar PV system at a lower upfront cost. Combined with the federal STC discount applied at the point of sale, it makes going solar significantly more affordable for Victorian homes. New rebate allocations are released each month, so eligible households should apply early.

New electrification and efficiency standards

The Victorian Government is making buildings safer, more comfortable and healthier while driving down energy bills and cutting emissions. From 1 January 2027, all new homes must be built all-electric. From 1 March 2027, existing homes must replace gas hot water systems with an efficient electric alternative, such as a heat pump, as they reach the end of their life. Going solar now positions your home ahead of these changes and maximises the value of an all-electric setup.

Check if you are eligible

As a Victorian householder, you may qualify for the solar panel (PV) rebate if you meet the following conditions.

Eligibility criteria

You are the owner-occupier of an existing property, or the owner of a home under construction, where the system will be installed. The combined household taxable income of all owners is less than $150,000 per year. The property value is under $3 million (for an existing home, or once construction is complete). The property address has not previously received a solar panel (PV) or solar battery rebate under this program. The property has not had a solar panel (PV) system installed in the last 10 years. If you previously received a Solar Homes rebate or loan and have since moved house, you can apply again at your new address as an owner-occupier, provided that property has not received these rebates before.

Approved retailers and products

To qualify, you must use an authorised solar retailer and install only eligible products from the approved product lists. Solaraide is an authorised retailer and installs only tier-one, program-approved panels and inverters, so your eligibility is protected from the start.

The solar installation process, step by step

If you think you are eligible, the path from enquiry to switch-on follows a clear sequence.

Before installation

Start by researching your options and the size of system your home needs. Talk with an authorised solar retailer like Solaraide and choose a system built from approved products to match your energy use. Request a written quote, which your retailer uploads to the Solar Victoria portal, then wait for confirmation that the quote has been received. Obtain pre-approval to connect and export to the grid, then upload your paperwork to prove your eligibility.

Installation and payment

Once Solar Victoria confirms your eligibility and issues your QR code, your system can be installed. Installation must be completed within 120 days for existing homes, or 270 days for homes still being built. After installation you pay the retailer the difference between the total cost and the rebate. If you opted in for the interest-free loan, repayments begin shortly afterwards. Do not install your system before your eligibility is approved, as installing early means you will not receive the rebate.

Applying while your home is under construction

You can apply for the solar panel rebate while your house is being built. Talk to your builder early, ideally during the planning phase, to discuss your preference for solar, get their consent to install during the build, work out when and how the installer will access the site, and submit the rebate application at the right stage of construction. Note that homes under construction are not eligible for the Solar Homes Program hot water rebate, though you may become eligible once construction is complete.

Interest-free loans

You will be offered an interest-free loan of up to $1,400 as part of your application. From 1 May 2026, if you want the loan you must select it when you apply, and no collateral is required. If approved, the loan amount is processed alongside your rebate and paid directly to your solar retailer.

How loan repayments work

Repayments are made monthly over four years, so a $1,400 loan equals $29.17 per month. They are automatically debited from the bank account you nominate when you apply, and they begin 30 days after your installation is approved.

Understanding the rebate requirements

Before you apply, it helps to understand what Solar Victoria will ask for and how the process runs. This includes proving your eligibility, providing accepted identification and proof of income, obtaining written quotes, securing pre-approval to connect and export to the grid, receiving your QR code, meeting the installation timelines, and understanding how rebate payments are processed. Solaraide guides you through each of these so nothing is missed.

Frequently asked questions

How much is the Victorian solar panel rebate?

Eligible households can receive up to $1,400 towards a solar PV system, with the option of an interest-free loan of up to $1,400 on top.

Who is eligible for the solar rebate in Victoria?

Owner-occupiers of an existing home, or owners of a home under construction, with a combined household income under $150,000 and a property valued under $3 million, where the address hasn’t received this rebate before or had solar installed in the last 10 years.

How long do I have to install after approval?

Installation must be completed within 120 days of receiving your QR code for an existing home, or within 270 days for a home still being built.

Can I get the rebate on a rental property?

Yes. The solar panel (PV) rebate is available for rental properties as well as owner-occupied homes and homes under construction.

Get started with your solar rebate

Solaraide is an authorised solar retailer serving Melbourne and Victoria, and we handle the rebate paperwork for eligible homes from start to finish. Get a free quote and we’ll confirm exactly what you qualify for. Call 1300 158 441 or request a free assessment online.