How to Choose a Retailer for Solar Export

How to Choose a Retailer

Compare FiT rates, daily supply charges, import tariffs, and any bill credits or caps. Consider your export volume and self-consumption.

Note: Policies and rates change frequently. Verify with your retailer and regulator.

Key Factors to Compare

When choosing an electricity retailer for your solar export, consider these important factors to maximize your savings.

Feed-in Tariff Rates

The rate you receive for excess solar energy exported to the grid. Compare:

  • Flat rate vs. time-of-export rates
  • Tiered rates based on export volume
  • Guaranteed minimum rates vs. variable rates

Daily Supply Charges

Fixed daily fees charged by retailers regardless of your energy usage. Consider:

  • How supply charges impact your overall bill
  • Whether higher FiT rates justify higher supply charges
  • Seasonal variations in supply charges

Import Tariffs

The rates you pay for electricity drawn from the grid. Evaluate:

  • Single rate vs. time-of-use tariffs
  • Peak, off-peak, and shoulder rates
  • How import tariffs affect your net savings

Bill Credits & Caps

Additional incentives and limitations that affect your earnings:

  • Sign-up bonuses or bill credits
  • Export caps or limits on FiT payments
  • Conditional credits based on usage patterns

How to Compare Retailers Effectively

Follow this step-by-step process to find the best electricity retailer for your solar system.

1

Analyze Your Energy Usage

Review your electricity bills to understand your consumption patterns, export volume, and self-consumption ratio. This data is crucial for selecting the right plan.

2

Gather Current Plan Details

Collect information about your current plan including FiT rates, daily supply charges, import tariffs, and any contract terms or exit fees.

3

Research Available Retailers

Identify all electricity retailers operating in your area. Don't limit yourself to the major companies—smaller retailers often offer competitive rates for solar customers.

4

Compare Total Annual Costs

Calculate the net annual cost for each plan by factoring in all components: FiT credits, supply charges, import costs, and any bonuses or caps. Use comparison tools to simplify this process.

5

Review Contract Terms

Examine contract length, rate guarantee periods, exit fees, and terms for rate changes. Ensure the plan flexibility matches your needs and risk tolerance.

Retailer Comparison Tools

Use these tools to simplify your retailer selection process and find the best plan for your solar system.

Retailer Comparison Table

Compare FiT rates, supply charges, and import tariffs from multiple retailers in your area side by side.

Compare Retailers

FiT Savings Calculator

Calculate your potential savings with different retailers based on your system size, usage patterns, and export volume.

Calculate Savings

Export Estimator

Estimate your solar export potential based on your location, system size, and typical weather conditions.

Estimate Exports

Rate Change Tracker

Monitor FiT rate changes across retailers to identify the best time to switch plans or negotiate better rates.

Track Changes

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I compare electricity retailers?

It's recommended to compare retailers at least once a year or when your current contract is about to expire. FiT rates and electricity plans change frequently, so regular comparisons ensure you're always getting the best value for your solar investment.

Are there any fees for switching electricity retailers?

Most retailers don't charge fees for switching, but you may need to pay exit fees if you're still in a fixed-term contract with your current retailer. Always check your contract terms before switching and factor any potential fees into your cost comparison.

Can I negotiate better FiT rates with retailers?

While FiT rates are typically standardized, some retailers may offer special rates or incentives to attract solar customers. It's worth contacting retailers directly to ask about any special offers, especially if you have a larger solar system or can demonstrate high export potential.

How long does it take to switch electricity retailers?

The switching process typically takes 1-3 business days, during which you won't experience any interruption to your electricity supply. Your new retailer will handle the transfer process, including notifying your current retailer and arranging the meter read for the final bill.

Ready to Find the Best Retailer for Your Solar?

Use our comparison tools to evaluate electricity retailers and find the plan that maximizes your solar investment returns.

Compare Retailers Calculate Savings