NSW Home Energy Saver Loan Income Limit Drops 10 Nov

If you’re planning solar, a battery or another energy upgrade in NSW and hoping to use a zero-interest Home Energy Saver loan, the rules are changing soon.

From 9 am on Tuesday 10 November 2026, the income limit for the loans drops from a combined taxable household income of $210,000 to $150,000 a year.

What’s changing?

Home Energy Saver loans give eligible NSW homeowners and landlords a zero-interest loan of up to $15,000 for energy-saving upgrades, including rooftop solar and home batteries.

The NSW Government is lowering the income limit so the program helps more low and middle-income households. According to the Smart Energy Council, more than 15,000 NSW homes have used the loans since they launched in June 2026.

Who does this affect?

Household income up to $150,000: nothing changes for you. You can still apply after 10 November.
Household income between $150,000 and $210,000: you need to submit your loan application before 9 am on 10 November 2026 to be assessed under the current limit.
Household income over $210,000: you’re not eligible now or after the change.

Income is the combined taxable income of the property’s owners, as shown on the rates notice. Your finance provider will usually ask for your latest Notice of Assessment.

Getting a quote isn’t enough

To be assessed under the $210,000 limit, you need to submit your loan application before the deadline. Applications are made through the program’s finance providers, Brighte and Plenti, using a quote from an approved supplier.

If you’re close to deciding, talk to your installer now about whether you can get your application in on time.

Who can apply?

To be eligible for a Home Energy Saver loan, you must:

own the property (landlords can get one loan per property)
be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
meet the income limit at the time you apply

Can I combine the loan with other incentives?

Yes. Other incentives, such as the federal solar incentive (STCs) and eligible NSW energy incentives, are taken off the price first. The loan then covers the rest, up to $15,000. Your installer can confirm which incentives apply to your upgrade.

What if I’m no longer eligible?

If your household earns more than $150,000, the NSW Government suggests checking the Australian Government’s Household Energy Upgrade Fund, which offers discounted interest rates on home energy upgrades through participating lenders.

You can still get the federal solar and battery discounts, which don’t depend on your income.