Checklist before switching retailers

Introduction

Switching energy retailers can save you money, but only if you read the fine print. This checklist before switching retailers will help you compare FiT rates, daily supply charges, and tariffs so you don’t lose out.

For background, see Compare FiT by State.

Key Points to Check

• Feed-in Tariff (FiT): What credit per kWh exported?

• Import Tariff: What’s the cost of each kWh you buy?

• Daily Supply Charge: A fixed cost that can wipe out FiT gains.

• FiT Caps/Thresholds: Some plans only pay a high FiT up to a certain kWh limit.

• Contract Terms: Exit fees, fixed vs variable rates.

Check live rates with the Retailer Rates page.

Worked Example 1 — High FiT, High Daily Charge

• Retailer A: 12c FiT, $1.30 daily charge

• Retailer B: 8c FiT, $0.95 daily charge
  For a household exporting 10 kWh/day:

• A earns $1.20 in FiT but pays $1.30 fixed = -$0.10 net

• B earns $0.80 FiT but pays $0.95 fixed = -$0.15 net
  Retailer A looks better, but if exports drop, the benefit disappears.

Worked Example 2 — Caps in Action

• Retailer X: FiT 15c up to 5 kWh/day, then 5c

• Household exports 12 kWh/day
  Total FiT = (5 × 15c) + (7 × 5c) = $1.10/day
  Without the cap, earnings would’ve been $1.80/day.

This is why it’s important to check FiT limits in the plan.

Worked Example 3 — Seasonal Bill Impact

• Summer: export 18 kWh/day

• Winter: export 5 kWh/day
  If FiT drops in winter while daily charges remain the same, the household’s credit shrinks fast.

Use the Postcode Estimator to model seasonal averages.

Practical Checklist Before Switching

1. Compare FiT rates and check for caps.

2. Note the daily supply charge.

3. Review peak/off-peak tariffs if on time-of-use.

4. Confirm contract length and fees.

5. Estimate seasonal exports using the FiT Savings Calculator.

6. Track historical offers via the Rate Change Tracker.

7. Compare across your state at Compare FiT by State.

FAQs

Q1. Is the highest FiT always best?
Not necessarily—daily charges and import tariffs may cancel out FiT gains.

Q2. Should I switch as soon as a better FiT is advertised?
Only after comparing the whole plan. Use Retailer Rates.

Q3. Do FiT rates change often?
Yes, retailers can adjust them. Track with Rate Change Tracker.

Q4. How do I know if I’ll actually save after switching?
Run your numbers in the Solar ROI & FiT calculator.

Conclusion

Switching retailers can be worthwhile, but only if you check the full plan details—not just the FiT. Use the calculators and comparison tools linked above to avoid surprises and make sure your switch leads to real savings.