ACT’s Interest-Free Battery Loan Explained
As part of its commitment to net zero emissions by 2045, the ACT Government offers an innovative support program to help residents invest in clean energy technology. The Sustainable Household Scheme provides interest-free loans of up to $15,000, repayable over up to 10 years, with no upfront costs or account fees.
This scheme can significantly reduce the financial barrier for households looking to install a solar battery storage system, either as a standalone product or bundled with other energy-efficient upgrades.
Key Features at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Loan Amount | $2,000 – $15,000 (interest-free) |
| Loan Term | Up to 10 years |
| Interest Rate | 0% interest |
| Fees | No upfront costs or ongoing account fees |
| Provider | Brighte (ACT Government partner) |
| Eligibility | ACT homeowners or licence holders (for EVs) |
| Repayments Start | Once product is installed and operational |
What Can You Use the Loan For?
Eligible ACT residents can use the loan to purchase and install:
- Solar battery storage systems
- Rooftop solar panels
- Electric vehicle chargers
- Electric heating/cooling systems
- Hot water heat pumps
- Electric cooktops and appliances
- Ceiling insulation
- Electric vehicles
- Installation costs for any of the above
You can choose to install a single product or bundle multiple upgrades – the total must not exceed $15,000.
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible if you:
- Live in the ACT
- Own a home in the ACT or hold a current ACT driver’s licence (required for EV loan)
- Are able to meet Brighte’s credit criteria (credit check required)
- Attend a free 1-hour energy efficiency workshop (online or in person)
Community groups are also eligible under similar criteria.
Example Scenario: Installing a Solar Battery in the ACT
Let’s say you’re a homeowner in Canberra looking to add a solar battery to your existing solar system.
- Cost of battery (installed): $12,000
- Loan through Scheme: $12,000 interest-free over 10 years
- Monthly repayments: $100 (approx.)
- Out-of-pocket costs upfront: $0
You’ll immediately reduce your grid reliance, improve your energy resilience, and avoid thousands in interest payments over the loan term.
Additional Support for Concession Card Holders
Eligible concession card holders (e.g., Pensioner Concession Card, DVA Gold Card, Health Care Card) can access:
- Up to $5,000 in rebates through the Home Energy Support Program
- Combine this with a $10,000 interest-free loan under the Sustainable Household Scheme
This brings the total potential support to $15,000 per household, with less out-of-pocket expenditure upfront.
How to Apply
- Check eligibility: Visit the ACT Government Sustainable Household Scheme page
- Attend workshop: Register for a free 1-hour energy workshop (online or in-person)
- Get quotes: Compare products (like batteries and solar systems) using Solar Choice’s comparison tools
- Apply via Brighte: The scheme’s loan provider will assess your application and perform a credit check
Important Notes
- Loans above $15,000 may be possible, but only the first $15,000 is interest-free. Additional funds may attract interest.
- Repayments start once the system is installed and operational (or vehicle is purchased).
- You can repay early with no penalties.
- Falling behind on repayments may incur fees, but hardship support is available.
Why It Matters
The ACT is leading Australia in sustainability and climate action. With this scheme, more residents can access affordable, high-impact technologies like solar batteries, helping reduce emissions, protect against blackouts, and lower long-term energy bills.
ACT Solar Battery Resources
- Compare Solar Battery Prices
- Solar Battery Payback Calculator
- Sustainable Household Scheme (ACT Gov)
Combining with Federal Solar Battery Rebate
ACT homeowners can combine the Sustainable Household Scheme loan with federal STC incentives or ACT-based rebates like the Home Energy Support Program.
Australians may also benefit from the new Federal Solar Battery Rebate, officially launching on 1 July 2025 under the Cheaper Home Batteries Program. This confirmed national rebate will offer up to 30% off eligible battery systems—potentially saving homeowners around $3,500 to $4,700 on a typical 10–13.5 kWh setup.
While the ACT loan and federal rebate are both active programs, their combined use has not yet been formally confirmed. However, based on previous scheme structures, it’s likely some level of stackability will apply.
Learn more: Federal Solar Battery Rebate | Ultimate Guide (2025)
This rebate could be a gamechanger for households looking to improve battery payback and reduce upfront costs. We recommend ACT residents begin planning now to secure the best system and installation timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use the loan for a battery retrofit?
Yes – you can install a solar battery on an existing solar system using the Sustainable Household Scheme, provided the system is compatible.
Do I need to pay anything upfront?
No. There are no upfront costs, application fees, or account-keeping charges for the first $15,000.
Is a credit check required?
Yes. The loan provider (Brighte) will assess your application based on your credit history and repayment ability.
Can I apply with other government rebates?
Yes – you can combine the Sustainable Household Scheme loan with federal STC incentives or ACT-based rebates like the Home Energy Support Program.
