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Solar feed-in tariffs (FiTs) are payment schemes that allow individuals and businesses to sell excess solar energy back to the grid. In South Australia, FiTs are regulated by the Essential Services Commission of South Australia (ESCOSA) and are available to customers who generate electricity using solar panels or other renewable energy sources.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the FiT, customers must have an eligible renewable energy system installed on their property and be connected to the grid. The system must also be accredited by the Clean Energy Council and meet all relevant safety and performance standards.
Benefits
The combination of the FiT, SRES, government incentives and rebates can significantly reduce the payback period for a solar system, making it an attractive option for those looking to reduce their energy bills and carbon footprint.
Overall, the solar FiT in South Australia is a beneficial program for those looking to invest in renewable energy. It provides a financial incentive for the generation of clean, renewable electricity and helps to promote the adoption of renewable energy technologies in the state.
Incentives, rebates and schemes
In South Australia, many incentives and rebates are available to individuals and businesses looking to make energy efficient improvements to their homes or buildings. Some of the most popular incentives and rebates in South Australia include
Home Energy Upgrade: This program provides financial assistance for the installation of energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and insulation, as well as the implementation of energy-efficient building practices.
In addition to the FiT is the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), which provides additional financial incentives for installing renewable energy systems. The SRES is administered by the Australian Government and provides a financial credit for each megawatt-hour of electricity generated by the system.
Is there a minimum solar feed-in tariff in South Australia?
In South Australia, there is no minimum FiT. The retailer feed-in tariff is a variable sum merchants offer anyone with a qualifying solar PV system. It might fluctuate regularly due to factors such as the wholesale price of electricity and market competitiveness.
Comparison by retailers
The table below lists major South Australian electricity retailers’ lowest and highest FiT tariffs.
Best feed in tariff SA
| RETAILERS | MIN SOALR FiT | MAX SOLAR FiT |
| Origin Energy | 6.0c | 20.0c (must purchase a solar system through Origin that’s under 7kW) |
| EnergyAustralia | 8.5c | 12.0c (first 15kWh/day, 8.5c thereafter) |
| 1st Energy | 8.0c | 8.0c |
| SA MAJOR RETAILERS | MIN SOLAR FiT | MAX SOLAR FiT |
| AGL | 5.0c | 15c (for first 10kWh/day, 6c/kWh thereafter) |
| OVO Energy | 0c | 12c |
| Alinta Energy | 8.0c | 8.0c |
| Simply Energy | 5.5c | 8c |
| Sumo | 5c | 8c |
| Energy Locals | 6c | 6c |
| Lumo Energy | 3c | 5.5c |
| Red Energy | 3c | 5.5c |
Should I simply consider solar feed-in tariffs when selecting a provider?
There may be instances where the supplier entices you with a high FiT, but you still wind up spending more since they combine it with higher electricity prices and daily supply charges. As a result, we urge that you examine factors other than the feed-in tariff when making a more educated, balanced decision.
Every household will have to weigh its factors on an individual basis. Large solar systems may export plenty of excess clean electricity back into the grid. Therefore, a high solar FiT may be an essential feature for them.
In contrast, someone with a modest solar system may wish to prioritise lower rates or supply costs because they will get fewer potential charges on their bill.
Read more about solar feed-in tariff
- Australian Solar Feed-In Tariffs Information
- Solar Feed-in Tariff Comparison: Best Tariffs by State and Territory
- Feed-in Tariffs Keep Getting Lower: Is Solar Still Worth it in 2024?
Energy Matters has over 17 years of experience in the solar industry and has helped over 40,000 Australian households in their journey to energy independence.
Contact us today, and we can connect you with our trusted local installers, who will provide up to 3 FREE solar quotes for your home and business solar energy system.
Switching to a better plan?
You may already have an energy plan but want more power or to shop for a better deal.
Energy Matters‘ “Free Energy Bill Comparator” is a cutting-edge energy bill tool that compares your area’s most competitive retail offers. We collect the data from our wide range of trusted retailers, allowing you to decide on the switching plan and find the best deal for your needs.
If your goal is to get more electricity and minimise the cost of your gas and electricity bills, switch to a better plan now!
UPDATED JANUARY 2024
