VIC Government Heat Pump Hot Water rebates are running out

Ballarat Solar Group’s in-house team recently completed a solar installation at Ballarat Community Health.

☀️ Why the Cheapest Home Battery Could Be the Most Expensive Mistake You Ever Make  After nearly two decades in the solar industry, we’ve seen trends come and go—but nothing compares to today’s explosion of new battery brands. The real shock, though, is how many homeowners lower their expectations the moment they see a bargain‑basement price. Why gamble with its energy system, one of the most valuable parts of your home? The Hidden Cost of the “Cheap” Option Thanks to generous government incentives, it’s tempting to grab a low-cost, oversized battery. But ask yourself one crucial question: Can you afford to replace it out of pocket? Because if the installer disappears, the importer folds, and the hardware fails, you could be left with a $20,000 paperweight—and another $30,000 bill to make things right. And that dead battery? You’ll pay thousands just to dispose of it. Multiply that by the number of homeowners making the same mistake, and billions of dollars in subsidised hardware could soon become landfill. What’s a Fair Price, Really? For years, solar pricing was simple: around $1 per watt for a reputable installation. Batteries followed a similar rule—about $1,000 per kWh for safe, compliant storage. The new Cheaper Home Battery Program aims to reduce costs, but “cheaper” doesn’t mean “cheapest.” Cut-rate systems cut corners, and someone always pays for it later. Quality Installers Don’t Cut Corners Good installers invest heavily in customer support, warranty work, site visits, and proper commissioning—often without being able to bill for it. That’s what real service looks like. The Bottom Line If government incentives are covering more than half your system, you’re almost certainly buying low-quality gear from a company that won’t be around when things go wrong. Don’t risk your home—or your wallet—by chasing the lowest price. With solar and batteries, you truly get what you pay for. Contact us for a one-on-one FREE information session in person at our office (by appointment); your home; or by phone. P: 1300 449 458 E: scott@matthewwalshelectrical.com.au