Lock in your interest-free loan and solar eligibility before it’s too late
The ACT Government is tightening the screws on its popular Sustainable Household Scheme (SHS). From 1 July 2025, new restrictions and costs kick in — including the end of interest-free loans and removal of solar panel eligibility (for most households).
If you’ve been considering upgrades like a battery, heat pump, or EV charger, now’s the time to act.
Here’s what’s changing — and how to make sure you don’t miss out.
What’s changing?
| Until 11:59pm, 30th June 2025 | From 1 July 2025 |
|---|---|
| 0% interest on loans up to $15,000 | 3% fixed interest on new loans (excludes Home Energy Support Program participants) |
| Solar panel installations eligible | Solar panels removed from the Scheme (unless you’re on the Home Energy Support Program) |
| Apply any time | Must apply by 11:59pm on 30 June 2025 to access current benefits |
| No install deadline | Approved installs must be completed by 1 November 2025 or your loan may be reviewed (and incur interest) |
Batteries remain eligible
Battery storage systems will continue to be available under the Scheme after 1 July 2025. While the interest-free loan will no longer apply, batteries can still be financed under the new 3% fixed interest loan.
Why you should act now
Extra cost: A 3% interest rate adds around $2,400 over 10 years on a $15,000 loan. That’s money better in your offset or super.
Solar is being cut: Miss the deadline, and solar panels won’t be eligible under the Scheme (unless you’re in the Home Energy Support Program).
Installer bottlenecks: Demand will spike before and after 30 June. Delays could push your install past the 1 Nov cutoff — triggering a loan review and interest.
5-Step Action Plan (Start This Week)
Get 3 quotes now for each upgrade you’re considering — solar, battery, EV charger, hot water, heating/cooling.
Book the mandatory SHS workshop (required for loan approval — spots fill quickly).
Lock in your installer well before 1 November to avoid delays.
Submit your finance application before 1st July 2025 to secure the 0% deal.
Tell your neighbours — they’ll thank you for the heads-up.
Quick FAQs
Q: I’m on a concession card. Do I still get 0% loans after 1 July?
Yes — through the Home Energy Support Program, you’ll continue to access 0% interest and may also be eligible for rebates of up to $5,000.
Learn more
Q: Can I borrow more than $15,000?
Yes, but the 3% cap only applies to the first $15,000. Any amount above that is subject to standard market rates.
Q: What happens if my install isn’t completed by 1 November 2025?
Your loan may be reviewed — which could mean switching to the 3% rate. Install on time or risk the extra cost.
Bottom Line
There’s a hard deadline: 11:59pm, 30 June 2025. After that, interest-free finance disappears for most, and solar panels are off the list.
The good news? Battery systems remain eligible — so you can still use the Scheme to support a home battery, even after the changes.
Don’t delay — get your quotes, book your install, and submit your application now to avoid missing out on the ACT’s most generous home energy upgrade offer.
