Choosing the best energy plan for solar means balancing feed-in tariffs (FiTs), usage rates, daily charges, and flexibility. Here’s how to identify the top options available right now.
Top Solar-Friendly Plans by Feed-In Tariff
Form reputable sources like Canstar Blue and MoveInConnect, some standout plans include:
- EnergyAustralia – Solar Max: Offers a generous 12 c/kWh FiT for the first 15 kWh per day, then 6.6 c/kWh after that. Known for its monthly flexibility and no exit fees.
- Origin Energy – Solar Boost (Victoria): Provides 5.4 c/kWh FiT with no lock-in contract or exit fees.
- AGL – Residential Solar Saver (Victoria): Offers 4.9 c/kWh. While lower, it’s backed by a reliable provider.
- NSW Highlights:
- Origin – Solar Boost: 10 c/kWh FiT.
- EnergyAustralia – Solar Max: 7.6 c/kWh FiT suitable for larger solar systems.
- AGL – Residential Solar Savers: 8 c/kWh FiT.
- South Australia:
- Origin – Solar Boost Plus: Up to 17 c/kWh, then dropping to 6 c/kWh after the daily limit.
- EnergyAustralia – Solar Max: 12 c/kWh initially, then 8.5 c/kWh.
- AGL – Residential Solar Savers: 10 c/kWh first 10 kWh, then 6 c/kWh.
Beyond Just the Top FiT Rates
While a high FiT is appealing, several other factors influence whether a plan truly is the best energy plan for solar:
- Daily Supply Charges – High daily fees can negate FiT gains.
- Usage Rates – Look out for cut-offs, time-of-use (TOU) pricing, or peak-demand charges.
- Contract Terms – Choose between no lock-ins for flexibility or short-term contracts if they offer better value.
- Extras – Incentives like smart meter discounts, battery compatibility, or green energy add-ons can boost savings.
Real User Insights from Reddit
- A Queensland user praised Amber, noting it offers wholesale prices for solar exports and can charge batteries during low-cost periods.
- A Gold Coast homeowner switched from AGL to Red Energy for better summer earnings despite similar charges.
- One commenter recommended analyzing your consumption patterns along with exported energy to truly find the best fit rather than just chasing the highest FiT.
- For users with solar plus battery systems, Ambol’s TOU plans were highlighted as effective for maximizing savings by aligning grid use with low-cost time slots.
Quick Comparison Table
| Region/State | Best Plan(s) & FiT Details |
|---|---|
| Victoria | EnergyAustralia Solar Max (12 c/kWh first 15 kWh) – very strong FiT. Origin Solar Boost – 5.4 c/kWh with flexibility. |
| NSW | Origin Solar Boost (10 c/kWh), EnergyAustralia Solar Max (7.6 c/kWh), AGL Solar Savers (8 c/kWh). |
| South Australia | Origin Solar Boost Plus (17 c/kWh then 6 c), EnergyAustralia Solar Max (12 c then 8.5 c), AGL Solar Savers (10 c then 6 c). |
| Other Considerations | Amber (QLD – wholesale pricing), Red Energy (summer-focused benefits), TOU and battery-aware plans like Ampol. |
Final Takeaways
- For highest feed-in returns, EnergyAustralia Solar Max (especially in Victoria & SA) often leads the pack.
- For flexibility and simplicity, Origin Solar Boost stands out.
- AGL Solar Savers is reliable, though FiT rates are modest.
- Real-world experiences suggest analyzing consumption, watching for hidden costs, and leveraging batteries can make or break your savings.