Whistleblowers allege widespread fraud in Australia’s $7.2 billion solar battery rebate scheme
Whistleblowers have sent tip-offs to the Clean Energy Regulator claiming installers are falsifying work and using unlicensed workers to claim rebates under the Cheaper Home Batteries Program.
A series of 95 whistleblower tip-offs submitted between March and June to the Clean Energy Regulator allege that some solar battery installers have been fabricating installations, forging paperwork and employing unlicensed workers to claim subsidies under the Cheaper Home Batteries Program. The scheme, which subsidises up to 30 percent of battery costs, has seen more than 530,000 units installed since July 2025 and is expected to cost over $7.2 billion in four years.
Allegations include “staged” photos, temporary placement of batteries to claim STC credits, and even theft of fully paid-for systems. Industry commentator Finn Peacock warned that the original design encouraged “battery cowboys” to oversell, and consumer advocate Stephanie Tonkin said proven fraud would erode trust in the policy. Shadow Energy Minister Dan Tehan has called for an independent Senate inquiry, and the Clean Energy Regulator confirmed the claims are being examined under its compliance program.
Why it matters
Misuse of a large taxpayer-funded rebate undermines consumer confidence and could waste billions of public dollars.
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