NSW households will now have until 10th November 2026 to apply for the Home Energy Saver Loan. This means a reduction to the current maximum threshold of $210,000. After that, the combined taxable household income threshold for the zero-interest loan falls from $150,000 to $60,000.
As noted on the NSW Government’s Home Energy Saver loans page, any households that apply before the 10th November will still be eligible for the loan using the current threshold. The loan amount remains the same, along with the interest rate and repayment term.
If you are planning to install rooftop solar, upgrade your existing solar, or install a home battery, then it’s important to understand what has changed.
What is Changing?
The combined taxable income will now be reduced by $60,000.
The NSW Government is changing the eligibility criteria for its Home Energy Saver Loan, reducing the combined taxable household income limit from $210,000 to $150,000 per year from 10 November 2026.
The change means some households that previously qualified for interest-free finance may no longer be eligible.
However, the maximum loan amount remains unchanged at $15,000, with repayments spread over a period of up to 10 years at zero interest.
Here is a comparison of the previous and updated loan conditions:
| Requirement | Before 10 November 2026 | From 10 November 2026 |
| Combined taxable household income | Up to $210,000 | Up to $150,000 |
| Maximum loan | $15,000 | $15,000 |
| Interest rate | 0% | 0% |
| Maximum repayment term | 10 years | 10 years |
The loan is still available to apply for. As noted on the NSW Climate and Energy Action page, there is currently no end date to apply.
Who Will Be Impacted by the New Limit?
Those with a combined taxable income between $150,000 and $210,000. Those earning less than $150,000 will not be impacted.
For example, if you’re a couple earning $105,000 and $75,000. This would result in a combined taxable income of $180,000; while you’re currently eligible, you’ll now go over the new threshold.
The income criteria is not the only criterion to be met. As noted on the loan page, you must also:
- Owner of the property
- Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Be within the income threshold
Homeowners can only receive one loan per property. Landlords can only receive one loan per property. The household refers to those listed as owners on your property’s rates notice. Double-check who is included in your income.
Important Things to Know When Applying Before 10th November
You need to be careful when applying. Any households applying before the 10th November will still be eligible under the old threshold.
Contact your finance provider directly and ask them the following questions:
- What is the exact cutoff date and time?
- Does a quote/referral submission count?
- What do you need to submit to be eligible under the old threshold?
Remember that just because you submit an application does not mean you will be approved. The lender will still need to assess your financial situation.
What’s the deadline for the old income limit?
If you fall within the income range of $150,000 and $210,000, it’s important to take note of this date.
According to the NSW Government:
- Applications received before 10th November 2026 will be assessed against the previous criteria of $210,000.
- Applications received after 10th November 2026 will be assessed against the new criteria of $150,000.
If you’re planning on installing solar or a battery, it’s important to take note of this.
Receiving a quote, speaking to an installer, or beginning discussions doesn’t mean you’ve applied.
What Should I Do in the Next Few Days?
If you think you may be impacted by this change, follow these steps:
- Check your income: Calculate your combined taxable income based on all those listed on your rates notice. Use your most recent tax assessments.
- Gather your documents: Lenders usually require proof of income, identity and property details. Have these ready to avoid any delays.
- Get a quote: You’ll need a quote from an approved supplier. Approved suppliers can be found on the Brighte and Plenti sites.
- Double-check with your provider: Don’t rely on the dates you see online. Contact your provider to clarify.
- Submit your application: Complete your application via your preferred provider’s site.
If you’d like to know more about how the loan works, read Home Energy Saver Loan.
Can you bundle it with other incentives?
Yes, as long as the customer, product and installation meet the criteria for both incentives and the installer can provide the incentive.
Solar and batteries can be used to finance the remainder of the cost after the Federal incentive has been applied.
Request a breakdown of your quote so you can see what the system will cost.
You can bundle it with other government incentives. For more information on how the Federal incentive works, please refer to our NSW Solar Rebate page.
How can I apply for the Home Energy Saver Loan?
To apply, you’ll need to check if you’re eligible, choose which upgrade you want and find an approved supplier
Check your eligibility
Ensure you meet the income criteria. This is based on the combined taxable income of the property owners.
Choose your upgrade
Decide if you want to install a new solar system, residential battery or another eligible energy-saving product.
Get a quote
Speak to an approved supplier to get a quote for your system. Ensure you check the specifications, warranty, installation requirements and incentives.
Apply with an approved funder.
The Home Energy Saver Loan can be obtained from an approved funder. These include Brighte and Plenti. They will assess your application and manage your repayments.
Installation
Once your loan has been approved, your approved supplier will organise your installation. Once complete, you’ll begin repaying your loan according to your agreement. For up-to-date information, visit the official NSW Home Energy Saver program.
Conclusion
The new income cap of $210,000 to $150,000 for the NSW Home Energy Saver Loan from 10th November 2026 is an important change.
While the maximum $15,000 interest-free loan and repayment period of up to 10 years remain unchanged, households earning between $150,000 and $210,000 will no longer be eligible for applications after this date.
If you’re planning to install solar or a battery, ensure you’re eligible, understand the deadline and choose the right upgrade.
At Isolux, we help NSW homeowners design and install solar and battery systems that are sized correctly for their usage and budget. Speak to our team to discuss your options.
Call us on 1300 552 452 or request a free quote. Check out our residential solar systems and battery range.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new income threshold for the NSW Home Energy Saver Loan?
From 10th November 2026, the combined taxable income threshold has been reduced from $210,000 to $150,000.
Can I still get an interest-free solar loan of up to $15,000 in NSW?
Yes! Eligible homeowners and landlords can still receive zero-interest loans of up to $15,000.
Can I still apply if we earn $180,000?
Possibly. As long as you apply before the 10th November. As noted by NSW, any applications made before then will be eligible for the $210,000 threshold.
Can I install a solar battery with the NSW Home Energy Saver Loan?
Yes! A residential solar battery can be installed with the scheme. As long as the battery, installation and applicant meet the criteria.
Is the NSW Home Energy Saver Loan a government rebate?
No! This is an interest-free loan. It is not a rebate or discount.
