Household income eligibility for solar panel (PV) and hot water rebates changed on 1 July 2026 from $210,000 to $150,000 per year. Applications submitted after 30 June 2026 will be assessed under the $150,000 eligibility cap.

Electrification Skills Program in 2026–27

Fully funded training for plumbers, electricians and other workers to support Victoria’s transition to renewable energy and help households save on their energy bills.

Free training in 2026–27 is part of the Victorian Government’s $5 million investment over three years in training and workforce development to help Victorians lower their energy bills by making their homes more energy efficient.

The Electrification Skills Program aims to support Victoria’s gas substitution reforms, help meet consumer demand for energy efficient appliances and homes, and prepare for new building electrification and minimum efficiency standards.

What’s new in 2026–27

New fully funded training in 2026–27 includes:

Technical support for commercial and industrial solar

Technical support to help installers navigate medium-scale solar PV systems which often involve sophisticated, high-voltage DC equipment. Specialised training ensures installers can manage complex electrical systems, reducing risks of fire or faulty wiring.

Training will be delivered through:

  • online self-paced modules developed and hosted by GSES (Global Sustainable Energy Solutions)
  • full-day in person sessions by Greenwood Academy.

Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) CPD points will be available upon completion.

When: Look out for more information from end-July 2026.

Switchboard upgrades training for electricians

Training for electrical workers on upgrading switchboards to support home electrification.

This will be delivered through online modules developed and hosted by Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA) and will also attract SAA CPD points upon completion.

When: Look out for more information from September 2026.

What’s continuing in 2026–27

To help meet consumer demand for energy efficient hot water, we are continuing training to design and install heat pump hot water systems.

How to find out more

Please revisit our website and subscribe to our industry newsletter for updates on training in 2026–27.

Updated

Solar Homes Program Industry Update graphic showing an email displayed on a laptop and mobile device, with a solar worker in a warehouse and Solar Victoria and Victorian Government logos.

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