As solar technology advances, many Australian homeowners are looking for ways to future-proof their systems. One of the fastest routes to more efficient, battery-ready solar is through trade-in and trade-up programs offered by inverter manufacturers.
In 2025, both Sungrow and SolarEdge are running schemes that let you upgrade older inverters to the latest hybrid models — and, in some cases, add a solar battery at a discounted price.
This guide from Greenlight Solar explains how these programs work, who qualifies, and why upgrading your inverter is a smart move. It draws on official manufacturer information and industry analysis so you can make an informed decision.
Why Upgrade Your Solar Inverter in 2025?
Older string inverters may still produce electricity, but they lack features many households now expect. New hybrid inverters support battery storage, integrate with monitoring platforms, and offer higher efficiency.
Upgrading in 2025 with Greenlight Solar can deliver:
- Battery readiness: If your system was solar-only, a new hybrid inverter lets you add a battery without replacing the whole setup.
- Greater efficiency: Modern inverters squeeze more energy from your panels, improving self-consumption and lowering grid demand.
- Enhanced monitoring & safety: Apps enable remote monitoring and firmware updates, with improved anti-islanding protection.
- Longer warranties: Many hybrid inverters now include ten- or twelve-year warranties for added peace of mind.
- Smart integration: Supports EV chargers, load control and participation in Virtual Power Plants (VPPs).
With battery rebates and energy-market incentives at record highs, now is the time to evaluate whether your existing inverter still meets your energy goals.
Understanding Trade-In vs Trade-Up
While both terms are used interchangeably, there’s a difference:
- Trade-in programs offer a credit for returning an old inverter when buying a new hybrid inverter + battery. Credits are applied through your installer or distributor.
- Trade-up programs replace your existing inverter — sometimes free of charge — when you add a compatible battery and backup system.
Sungrow runs a trade-in scheme, while SolarEdge operates a trade-up promotion. Greenlight Solar can help you decide which best suits your setup.
Sungrow Trade-In Program 2025
How It Works
- Request a Greenlight Solar quote. We’ll confirm if your Sungrow inverter qualifies and include the trade-in credit in your proposal.
- We manage the application. Greenlight Solar submits your eligibility documents and coordinates with Sungrow’s distributor network.
- Credit applied via distributor. Once your upgrade is complete, the credit appears directly on your invoice — no forms or cash handling required.
Eligibility & Requirements
To qualify, you must:
- Own an eligible Sungrow inverter listed in the official trade-in table (e.g., SG2K-S to SG20RT).
- Upgrade to a Sungrow hybrid inverter such as the SH5.0RS or SH10.0RS plus an SBR battery (minimum 9.6 kWh).
- Complete the upgrade at the same property and use a Sungrow-accredited installer, such as Greenlight Solar.
Program limits: one inverter per site, non-transferable, and valid only once the new system is installed and signed off.
What’s Included in the Upgrade
- New hybrid inverter (SH5.0RS or SH10.0RS).
- Modular SBR battery (9.6 kWh – 25.6 kWh).
- Mounting & monitoring hardware.
- 10-year warranty and iSolarCloud monitoring app access.
- Stacked savings: trade-in credit + government battery rebate.
Trade-In Values & Pricing
Credits range from A$500 to A$1,700, depending on model and size.
For example, a 9.6 kWh SH5.0RS system might cost A$12 000–$14 000 installed.
After a $1 000–$1 300 trade-in credit and a $3 400 federal rebate, net cost drops to roughly $7 300 – $9 600.
Key Benefits
- Reduced up-front costs
- Battery integration & VPP compatibility
- Eligibility for federal and state rebates
- Remote monitoring & firmware support
SolarEdge Trade-Up Program 2025
How It Works
- Add a SolarEdge Home Battery & Backup Interface.
- Replace the old inverter with a new Home Hub Universal Inverter (up to 10 kW) for free.
- Complete the TradeUp form; Greenlight Solar coordinates the return of your old unit and installs the replacement.
Eligibility
- Existing SolarEdge single- or three-phase system installed before 31 March 2025.
- Must include SolarEdge Home Battery & Backup Interface (three modules for 3-phase).
- Old inverter returned in working condition.
Customer Benefits
- Free 10 kW Home Hub Universal Inverter (up to $3 000 value).
- 12-year warranty on replacement inverter.
- Support for EV chargers and smart home integration.
Installer Benefits
- Installers receive incentive stock and reconnect with past clients while promoting battery storage upgrades — another reason Greenlight Solar participates in the program.
Comparing the Programs
| Feature | Sungrow Trade-In | SolarEdge Trade-Up |
| Type | Voucher credit through installer | Free replacement inverter |
| Battery requirement | SBR/SBH battery required | Home Battery + Backup Interface required |
| Credit value | $500 – $1 700 (depending on model) | Free 5 kW or 10 kW inverter |
| Warranty | 10 years | 12 years |
| Program window | Throughout 2025 | Installations before Mar 31 2025 |
| Ideal for | Sungrow owners ready to add a battery | SolarEdge owners adding battery storage |
Choosing the Right Upgrade with Greenlight Solar
- Choose Sungrow if you already own a qualifying inverter and want a flexible hybrid + battery system with a credit rebate.
- Choose SolarEdge if you have an existing SolarEdge setup and prefer a free inverter replacement plus longer warranty.
Greenlight Solar will compare both programs, evaluate your current equipment, and prepare a customised quote that includes all available trade-in credits and government rebates.
Future-Proof Your Solar Investment with Greenlight Solar
Upgrading to a hybrid inverter and battery not only boosts your home’s energy independence but positions you to take advantage of Australia’s rapidly changing energy market.
Whether you choose Sungrow’s trade-in credit program or SolarEdge’s Trade-Up promotion, Greenlight Solar is ready to guide you through the entire process — from eligibility checks to installation and ongoing support.
Contact Greenlight Solar today to book your free consultation and see how much you can save on your solar inverter upgrade in 2025.
Visit www.greenlightsolar.com.au for more information.
