From 1 July 2026 the household income cap for solar and hot water rebates is tightening. Here is what is changing and why some households should act sooner.
What is changing
From 1 July 2026, the combined household income cap to qualify for Solar Victoria's Solar Homes Program rebates for solar PV and hot water is reducing from $210,000 to $150,000 per year.
To secure a rebate under the current $210,000 cap, eligible applications generally need to be submitted in full by 5pm, Tuesday 30 June 2026.
Who is most affected
Households with a combined income between $150,000 and $210,000 are most likely to miss out after the change. If that's you, it's worth acting before the deadline rather than risking missing out.
Solar Victoria has noted most existing customers will still qualify under the new cap — but the in-between band is the group with the most to lose.
What rebates are available right now
- Solar PV: rebate for eligible homes, plus an optional interest-free loan
- Hot water (heat pump): rebate for eligible systems
Rebate amounts, eligibility and availability are set by Solar Victoria and may change. Always confirm your current eligibility.
Don't leave it to the last week
Applications take time to prepare and submit correctly. Starting early gives you the best chance of locking in a rebate before the rules change.
Check your eligibility
Not sure if you're affected? Comparing your options is free and takes a couple of minutes — and we'll help you understand what you may qualify for.
Frequently asked questions
When do the Solar Homes rebate changes take effect?
The lower household income cap of $150,000 applies from 1 July 2026. To qualify under the current $210,000 cap, eligible applications generally need to be submitted in full by 5pm on Tuesday 30 June 2026.
Who is affected by the rebate income cap change?
Households with a combined income between $150,000 and $210,000 are most affected, as they may no longer be eligible after 1 July 2026. Households under $150,000 generally remain eligible.
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