Northern Territory homeowners have access to some of Australia’s most generous solar incentives in 2026. By combining federal rebates with the NT Battery Grant Scheme, eligible households can save up to $9,500 or more on their solar and battery installation. This guide walks you through every rebate available, eligibility requirements, and the exact steps to claim your maximum entitlement.
Whether you live in Darwin, Palmerston, Alice Springs, Katherine, or Tennant Creek, these rebates apply across the entire Northern Territory.
Understanding the Two Main Rebate Programs
The $9,500 potential saving comes from two separate programs that can be combined on a single installation.
| Rebate Program | Maximum Value | Applies To |
| Federal Solar Rebate (STCs) | $3,500 (6.6kW system) | Solar panels |
| NT Battery Grant Scheme | $6,000 | Battery storage |
| Combined Total | Up to $9,500+ | Solar + battery system |
Federal Solar Rebate (STCs) Explained
The Small-scale Technology Certificates (STC) scheme is the federal government’s primary incentive for residential solar installations. This rebate applies automatically to all eligible solar panel installations across Australia, including the Northern Territory.
How STCs Work
| Factor | Explanation |
| What are STCs? | Tradeable certificates representing the clean energy your system will produce |
| Who creates them? | Your installer creates and registers them on your behalf |
| How do you benefit? | The value is deducted from your upfront installation cost |
| Current value | Approximately $35-40 per certificate (fluctuates with market) |
STC Values by System Size (NT Zone 1)
The Northern Territory falls within Zone 1, which receives the highest STC allocation due to superior solar radiation.
| System Size | Approximate STCs | Rebate Value (2026) |
| 5kW | 70 certificates | $2,800 – $3,000 |
| 6.6kW | 90 certificates | $3,200 – $3,500 |
| 10kW | 130 certificates | $4,800 – $5,200 |
| 13kW | 170 certificates | $6,000 – $6,500 |
Note: STC values change annually and fluctuate with market conditions. The figures above reflect early 2026 estimates. Your solar installer in Darwin will provide exact values at the time of your quote.
Important Read: How Solar Battery Installation Keeps Darwin Homes Powered 24/7
NT Battery Grant Scheme: Your $6,000 Opportunity
The NT Battery Grant Scheme is a Northern Territory Government initiative providing up to $6,000 toward eligible battery storage installations. This is one of Australia’s most generous state-based battery incentives.
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
| Property type | Residential property in the Northern Territory |
| Solar system | Must have an existing or new solar PV system |
| Battery capacity | Minimum 7kWh storage capacity |
| VPP capability | Battery must be Virtual Power Plant-ready |
| Installation | Must be installed by a licensed NT electrician |
| Ownership | Applicant must own the property or have landlord approval |
Grant Amount Calculation
The NT Battery Grant provides $600 per kilowatt-hour of usable battery capacity, up to the $6,000 maximum.
| Battery Size | Grant Calculation | Grant Amount |
| 7kWh | 7 × $600 | $4,200 |
| 10kWh | 10 × $600 (capped) | $6,000 |
| 13.5kWh | 13.5 × $600 (capped) | $6,000 |
| 15kWh+ | Capped at maximum | $6,000 |
For maximum grant value, a battery of at least 10kWh is recommended. Smaller batteries still qualify but receive proportionally less funding.
Step-by-Step: How to Claim Your Rebates
Claiming your solar rebates NT entitlement involves a straightforward process, with most of the work handled by your installer.
Step 1: Get Quotes from Accredited Installers
Contact CEC-accredited solar installers in your area. Ensure they are experienced with both federal STC claims and NT Battery Grant applications. Request itemised quotes showing the rebate deductions clearly.
Step 2: Confirm Eligibility
Your installer will verify your property meets all requirements for both rebate programs. This includes confirming your roof suitability, electrical infrastructure, and property ownership status.
Step 3: Sign STC Assignment Form
You will sign a form assigning your STC rights to the installer. In exchange, they deduct the STC value from your installation cost upfront. You pay the reduced price rather than claiming rebates later.
Step 4: Apply for NT Battery Grant
For the battery grant, your installer typically submits the application on your behalf through the NT Government portal. Required documents include proof of property ownership, quote details, and battery specifications.
Step 5: Installation and Inspection
Once approvals are confirmed, installation proceeds. After completion, an electrical inspection may be required before the final grant payment is released.
Step 6: Receive Grant Payment
The NT Battery Grant is typically paid directly to you or applied as a credit against your installation invoice, depending on the arrangement with your installer.
Important Read: Top 5 Things to Know Before Applying for the Federal Battery Rebate in Darwin
Important Deadlines and Changes for 2026
Several changes affect solar rebates NT residents can access in 2026. Understanding these deadlines helps you maximise your savings.
May 1, 2026: STC Factor Reduction
The STC deeming period reduces on May 1, 2026, cutting rebate values by approximately 20%. Homeowners installing before this date receive significantly higher rebates. For a 6.6kW system, this could mean $800-$1,200 in additional savings by acting before the deadline.
2030: STC Scheme End Date
The federal STC scheme will phase out entirely by 2030. Each year until then, rebate values continue decreasing. Acting sooner always provides better value than waiting.
NT Battery Grant: Limited Funding
The NT Battery Grant operates on a limited funding pool. Applications are processed first-come, first-served. When funding is exhausted, the program may close or require additional budget allocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim both rebates on the same installation?
Yes, the federal STC rebate and NT Battery Grant are separate programs that can be combined. Installing a solar and battery system together allows you to claim both, maximising your total savings up to $9,500 or more.
Do I need to apply for the federal rebate myself?
No. Your installer handles the STC paperwork entirely. You simply sign an assignment form, and the rebate value is deducted from your installation quote upfront.
How long does the NT Battery Grant application take?
Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks from application submission. Your installer should factor this timeline into your installation schedule.
Can renters access these rebates?
The NT Battery Grant requires property ownership or written landlord approval. Federal STCs apply to the installation regardless of ownership, but the property owner typically receives the benefit.
What if I already have solar but no battery?
You can still claim the NT Battery Grant when adding battery storage to an existing solar system. The federal STC rebate only applies to new solar panel installations.
Are there income limits for these rebates?
No. Both the federal STC scheme and NT Battery Grant are available to all eligible households regardless of income level.
Maximise Your 2026 Solar Investment
The combination of federal and NT Government incentives makes 2026 an excellent time for solar installation in Darwin and across the Northern Territory. With rebates reducing after May 1, 2026, and the STC scheme ending in 2030, acting sooner secures better value.
Oneroof Solar helps Territory families across Darwin, Palmerston, Alice Springs, Katherine, and Tennant Creek navigate the rebate process and maximise their entitlements.
Verdict: Northern Territory homeowners can access up to $9,500 in combined solar and battery rebates in 2026. The federal STC scheme provides $2,800-$3,500 for a typical residential system, while the NT Battery Grant adds up to $6,000 for eligible battery installations. With rebate values decreasing after May 1, 2026, and limited NT Battery Grant funding available, acting early in 2026 ensures maximum savings.
Note: Rebate values mentioned are estimates based on current program guidelines and may vary. Government programs can change without notice. Contact Oneroof Solar for current rebate calculations specific to your installation.
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Get Your Free Solar Consultation
Contact Oneroof Solar for expert solar and battery installation in the NT:
Darwin Office Address: Level 1/48-50 Smith St, Darwin City NT 0800
Phone: 08 8004 7888
Hours: 8 am – 6 pm (7 days)
Alice Springs Office Address: 44 Zeil St, Araluen NT 0870
Phone: 04 8393 7004
Hours: 9 am – 6 pm (Sunday closed)
Website: oneroofsolar.com.au
Serving Darwin, Palmerston, Alice Springs, Katherine, and Tennant Creek with quality solar installation services.
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About the Author
This article is brought to you by the expert team at Oneroof Solar, the Northern Territory’s most trusted local solar installers and service providers. With over 200 successful installations across Darwin, Palmerston, Alice Springs, Katherine, and Tennant Creek, we are passionate about helping Territory families and businesses achieve complete energy independence through quality solar and storage solutions designed for the NT’s unique climate.
