QLD Solar Feed-in Tariff Guide
Maximize your solar investment with our comprehensive guide to QLD Feed-in Tariffs. Compare plans, calculate export value, and make informed decisions for your solar household.
How FiT Works in QLD
Understanding how Feed-in Tariffs (FiT) work in Queensland is essential for maximizing the return on your solar investment. When your solar panels generate more electricity than your household consumes, the excess energy is exported back to the grid. Retailers pay you for this exported energy through a Feed-in Tariff, which is typically measured in cents per kilowatt-hour (c/kWh).
Flat Rate FiT
A flat rate FiT offers the same rate for all electricity exported to the grid, regardless of the time of day. This straightforward approach makes it easy to calculate your potential earnings, though it may not maximize returns during peak demand periods when electricity is most valuable to the grid.
Time-of-Export FiT
Time-of-export tariffs vary based on when you export electricity to the grid. These plans typically offer higher rates during peak demand periods (usually afternoons and early evenings) and lower rates during off-peak times. If your solar system is oriented to maximize afternoon production, these plans can significantly increase your returns.
Important Considerations
When evaluating FiT plans, look beyond the advertised rate. Some plans include export caps, tiered pricing structures, or bill credits instead of direct payments. Additionally, a high FiT doesn't always guarantee the lowest overall bill if the plan has high daily supply charges or expensive import tariffs for when you need to draw electricity from the grid.
The Queensland government has implemented various initiatives to encourage renewable energy adoption, but specific FiT rates are set by electricity retailers rather than regulated by the government. This means rates can vary significantly between providers, making comparison essential. Remember that FiT rates can change with minimal notice, so it's important to regularly review your plan and compare alternatives to ensure you're getting the best value for your solar exports.
Quick Tools for Solar Households
Our suite of tools is designed to help QLD solar households make informed decisions about their energy plans and maximize the value of their solar investment. Each tool provides specific insights to help you understand your energy export patterns and financial returns.
FiT Savings Calculator
Calculate your potential savings based on your solar system size, export patterns, and available FiT plans. Compare different scenarios to find the most profitable option for your household.
Use CalculatorPostcode Export Estimator
Get estimated daily kWh export values based on your postcode, system size, and orientation. This tool uses local solar irradiance data to provide accurate estimates for your specific location.
Estimate ExportSolar ROI with FiT
Calculate your solar investment's return on factoring in FiT earnings. See payback periods, long-term savings, and how different FiT rates impact your overall financial returns.
Calculate ROIRate Change Tracker
Stay informed about historical and upcoming FiT rate changes in the QLD market. Set up alerts for your preferred retailers to never miss an opportunity to switch to a better plan.
Track RatesEstimate Your Solar Export Value
Understanding your potential solar export value is crucial for selecting the right FiT plan. By accurately estimating how much electricity you're likely to export, you can make more informed decisions and maximize your returns. Follow these steps to estimate your export value and calculate the potential financial benefits.
Estimate Daily Export
Use our Postcode Export Estimator to calculate your average daily kWh export based on your system size, orientation, and location. This tool factors in local weather patterns and seasonal variations to provide accurate estimates.
Apply Your FiT Rate
Multiply your estimated daily export by your plan's FiT rate (in cents per kWh). For time-of-export plans, calculate separate values for peak, shoulder, and off-peak periods based on when your system typically exports the most energy.
Calculate Annual Benefit
Input your daily export value into our Solar ROI calculator to see your estimated annual earnings from FiT payments. The calculator will also show your payback period and long-term savings, helping you understand the full financial picture.
Factors Affecting Your Export Volume
System Size and Orientation
Larger systems generally export more energy, but orientation plays a crucial role. North-facing panels in QLD typically generate the most electricity, while west-facing systems may produce more during peak afternoon periods when FiT rates might be higher on time-of-export plans.
Household Consumption Patterns
The more electricity you use during daylight hours, the less you'll export to the grid. Households with people at home during the day typically have lower export volumes than those where occupants are away during peak solar generation hours.
Seasonal Variations
Solar production varies significantly throughout the year in QLD, with summer typically generating more electricity than winter. However, Queensland's subtropical climate means good solar production year-round compared to southern states. When calculating your export value, consider averaging your estimates across the entire year rather than focusing on peak production periods.
Battery Storage Impact
If you have a battery storage system, it will store excess solar energy for later use rather than exporting it to the grid. While this reduces your FiT earnings, it can significantly lower your overall electricity costs by reducing grid dependence during expensive peak periods.
Checklist for Choosing the Right Plan
Selecting the best electricity plan for your solar household requires careful consideration of multiple factors. Use this comprehensive checklist to evaluate potential plans and ensure you're making the most informed decision for your specific circumstances.
FiT Rate and Structure
Compare the offered FiT rate (in c/kWh) and determine whether it's a flat rate or time-of-export structure. For time-of-export plans, check the specific time windows and rates for peak, shoulder, and off-peak periods. Consider your typical export patterns to determine which structure would be most beneficial for your household.
Import Tariffs and Daily Supply Charge
Examine the rates you'll pay for electricity imported from the grid, including any time-of-use pricing structures. Also consider the daily supply charge, as a high daily fee can offset the benefits of a good FiT rate, particularly for households with lower overall electricity consumption.
Export Caps and Tiers
Some plans limit the amount of electricity you can export at the advertised FiT rate through caps or tiered structures. Check if the plan has a maximum daily or monthly export limit, or if the FiT rate decreases after you export a certain amount. These limitations can significantly impact your returns if you have a large solar system.
Bill Credits vs. Direct Payments
Determine how the FiT payments will be handled. Some retailers offer bill credits that offset your electricity charges, while others provide direct payments or a combination of both. Bill credits are typically more valuable as they're not subject to income tax, but direct payments provide more flexibility in how you use the money.
Contract Terms and Conditions
Review the contract length, exit fees, and any conditions that might affect your FiT rate. Some plans offer attractive introductory rates that decrease significantly after an initial period, while others lock in rates for the duration of the contract. Understand what happens if you need to break the contract early.
Green Energy Options
If environmental sustainability is important to you, check if the retailer offers GreenPower options or other renewable energy initiatives. Some retailers provide additional benefits for solar households, such as carbon offset programs or contributions to community solar projects.
Customer Service and Support
Research the retailer's reputation for customer service, particularly their responsiveness to solar households. Check online reviews and consider how easy it is to contact support, access your account information, and resolve billing issues. Good customer service can be invaluable if problems arise with your FiT payments.
Digital Tools and Monitoring
Evaluate the retailer's digital offerings, including mobile apps and online portals that allow you to monitor your energy consumption and export in real-time. These tools can help you optimize your energy usage and maximize your solar investment returns by providing insights into your patterns.
QLD Retailer FiT Comparison
Compare current Feed-in Tariff rates from major electricity retailers in QLD. This table is updated regularly, but always verify current rates directly with retailers before making a decision.
| Retailer | Plan Name | FiT Rate (c/kWh) | FiT Type | Daily Supply ($) | Contract Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Energex | Solar Saver | 7.5 | Flat Rate | 1.10 | 12 months |
| Origin Energy | Solar Boost Plus | 13.0 (peak), 5.5 (off-peak) | Time-of-Export | 1.15 | 24 months |
| EnergyAustralia | Solar Max | 8.0 | Flat Rate | 1.12 | No lock-in |
| AGL | Solar Rewards | 10.0 | Flat Rate | 1.08 | No lock-in |
| Powershop | Power Saver Solar | 11.0 | Flat Rate | 0.98 | No lock-in |
| Red Energy | Living Energy Solar | 9.5 | Flat Rate | 1.13 | 12 months |
*Rates are indicative and subject to change. Always verify current rates with retailers before switching plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
There's no single "good" FiT rate that applies to all households in QLD. The best rate for you depends on several factors, including your solar system size, household energy consumption patterns, and how much electricity you typically export to the grid. A higher FiT rate doesn't always result in the lowest overall electricity bill if the plan has high daily supply charges or expensive import tariffs. When evaluating plans, consider the total impact on your bill rather than focusing solely on the FiT rate. Use our comparison tools to calculate the net effect of different plans based on your specific circumstances.
Time-of-export rates can significantly benefit solar households whose systems produce the most electricity during high-value windows. These plans offer higher FiT rates during peak demand periods (typically afternoons and early evenings) when electricity is most valuable to the grid. If your solar panels are oriented west or if you have minimal daytime electricity consumption, allowing more energy to be exported during these peak periods, a time-of-export plan could substantially increase your returns. However, if your system primarily exports during off-peak periods when rates are lower, you might be better off with a flat-rate plan. Use our calculators to test different scenarios based on your specific export patterns.
The decision between investing in battery storage and seeking a higher FiT depends on your household's specific circumstances and priorities. Battery systems improve self-consumption by storing excess solar energy for use during evenings and periods of low solar generation, reducing your reliance on the grid during expensive peak periods. This can lead to significant savings on your electricity bills, especially if you have high evening energy consumption. On the other hand, a higher FiT benefits households that export large amounts of electricity to the grid, providing direct financial returns for your excess solar generation. The best choice depends on your usage patterns, electricity rates, and how much you value energy independence versus financial returns. For many households in QLD, a combination of both—moderate battery storage paired with a competitive FiT—offers the optimal balance of self-sufficiency and financial return.
FiT rates in QLD can change frequently, with some retailers adjusting their rates quarterly or even monthly. These changes are influenced by various factors, including wholesale electricity prices, government policies, and market competition. Unlike some other states, the QLD government doesn't regulate minimum FiT rates, leaving retailers to set their own rates based on market conditions. This dynamic environment means it's important to regularly review your plan and compare alternatives to ensure you're receiving competitive rates. Our Rate Change Tracker can help you stay informed about historical trends and upcoming changes, allowing you to make timely decisions about your electricity plan.
Yes, the Queensland government offers several incentives for solar beyond Feed-in Tariffs. The most significant is the Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) scheme, a federal initiative that provides an upfront discount on the cost of installing solar panels. The value of STCs depends on your system size and location, but it can reduce the installation cost by thousands of dollars. Additionally, QLD has implemented various programs to support renewable energy adoption, including interest-free loans for solar and battery systems through the Household Renewable Energy Loan Scheme. The state also has ambitious renewable energy targets and has implemented innovative programs like the Queensland Renewable Energy Target, which supports community renewable energy projects. Check the QLD government's official website for the most current information on available incentives and eligibility requirements.
Maximizing Your Solar Investment
Beyond selecting the right FiT plan, there are several strategies you can employ to maximize the return on your solar investment and optimize your energy usage patterns.
Time Your Energy Usage
Shift energy-intensive activities like laundry, dishwashing, and pool pumping to daylight hours when your solar panels are generating electricity. This reduces the amount of grid electricity you need to purchase and increases your self-consumption ratio.
Monitor Your Consumption
Use energy monitoring tools to track your electricity usage in real-time. Understanding your consumption patterns helps identify opportunities to reduce waste and optimize when to use energy-intensive appliances.
Upgrade to Efficient Appliances
Energy-efficient appliances reduce your overall electricity consumption, allowing more of your solar generation to be exported to the grid. Look for high star ratings when replacing old appliances, especially refrigerators, air conditioners, and water heaters.
Consider Battery Storage
Battery systems store excess solar generation for use during evenings and periods of low production. While the upfront cost is significant, batteries can provide substantial long-term savings and increased energy independence.
Review Your Plan Regularly
Electricity plans and FiT rates change frequently. Set reminders to review your plan every 6-12 months and compare it against current market offerings. Even small improvements in rates can add up to significant savings over time.
Join a Community Program
Queensland has several community solar programs that allow participants to share in the benefits of larger solar installations. These programs can provide access to solar generation for those unable to install their own systems and often offer competitive FiT rates.
Ready to Optimize Your Solar Investment?
Use our comprehensive tools and resources to find the best FiT plan for your QLD solar household. Start maximizing your returns today with our easy-to-use calculators and comparison tools.