Best Solar Feed-In Tariff QLD 2024

• Best Solar Feed-in Tariffs QLD 2024
• Top 10 Solar Plans in QLD
• ‘Big 3’ Solar Feed-in Tariffs QLD
• How Do I Choose the Right Solar Plan For Me?
• What is a Solar Feed-in Tariff?
• Solar PV System Size Limits in QLD
• Minimum Feed-in Tariff in QLD
• Can I Upgrade My Solar System?

Understanding the different solar feed-in tariff (FiT) rates in Queensland is important for solar households looking to make the most out of their solar investment. By securing a higher FiT, you could potentially boost your solar earnings, shortening the payback period of your solar system and increasing your overall savings. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about solar feed-in tariffs and solar plans, including the top solar feed-in tariff rates, the best solar energy plans currently offered, how to choose a solar plan, and more.

The table below lists the highest solar feed-in tariff rates in QLD, from highest to lowest. If you're looking to compare electricity plans or need a solution to lower your high electricity bills, call us today. We provide a variety of solar solutions tailored to your needs and budget.

Queensland is home to several competitive electricity retailers, each offering unique rates, plans, and price structures. In the table below, you’ll find some of the best solar plans currently available in the market.

*Calculated based on usage of 4613kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff in the Energex network. The DMO reference price is: $1,969 / year. Click here to view plan energy fact sheets.

In the table below, you’ll find the current solar feed-in tariffs for the ‘Big 3’ energy retailers: Origin Energy, Energy Australia, and AGL Energy.

You should consider several factors when you’re in the market for a new solar plan. While a high solar feed-in tariff rate can be beneficial in its own right, it doesn’t always mean you’re getting the best value. Some plans with high feed-in tariffs come with higher electricity usage rates, which can affect the total savings you get from your high feed-in tariff rate. 

In South East Queensland, residential consumers on the Energex network (Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast) can choose their energy plan due to market deregulation. Deregulation means that the government has removed restrictions on the electricity market, allowing electricity retailers to compete for your business. As a result, you have the freedom to choose which provider you want to sign up with. 

In contrast, consumers on the Ergon network, which serves regional and remote areas of Queensland, do not have this flexibility. The Ergon network is regulated, meaning Ergon Energy Retail is the sole provider of electricity.

A Solar Feed-in Tariff (FiT) is a credit paid by electricity providers to solar households or businesses for the excess electricity generated by their solar photovoltaic (PV) systems that is exported back to the grid. When your solar panels produce more energy than your household uses, the surplus is sent to the electricity grid, and you receive a payment or credit on your electricity bill from your energy provider. 

In Australia, there are guidelines that regulate the maximum size of a solar PV system. These solar system network limits vary depending on your area, where your home is located, and whether your home is a single-phase or three-phase connected property. 

Each state or territory has separate regulations and guidelines set by the local distribution network operators. Here's an overview of system size limits in QLD:

The minimum solar feed-in tariff refers to the rate paid by electricity retailers for the excess solar energy your system exports to the main grid. This rate can vary depending on the retailer and the specific plan you choose.

As of 2024, South East Queensland’s Energex network does not have a mandatory minimum feed-in tariff. Electricity retailers voluntarily set their own rates, so solar system owners need to shop around for the best deal. 

As of July 1, 2024, the mandatory minimum solar feed-in tariff (FiT) for regional Queensland, under the Ergon Energy network, is set at $0.12377 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). The Queensland Competition Authority (QCA) determines this rate annually and applies it to all eligible solar systems in the region.

Modern solar power technology is more efficient, meaning newer solar panels and inverters have the technology to convert more sunlight into energy, which can result in a substantial increase in your system’s overall output. From a financial standpoint, upgrading can be advantageous as well. By generating more excess electricity, you can take greater advantage of feed-in tariffs in QLD, which pay you for the surplus energy your system exports to the grid. Additionally, an upgraded solar system can meet the growing energy demands of your household (e.g., electric vehicles, new appliances, or home expansions), which can future-proof your household.

However, upgrading comes with its downsides as well. It’s well-known that upgrading your solar system can be costly, with expenses including new panels, inverters, and installation fees. It might take several years to recoup this investment through solar power savings and high feed-in tariff earnings.

There’s also the issue of compatibility if your older system is incompatible with newer technology, which can result in expensive upgrades or even a complete system overhaul. 

Solar feed-in tariffs often change based on the market. If you're getting a low rate, this can impact your expected returns from an upgrade. It's important to stay informed about the latest solar feed-in tariffs in your area, as you’ll want a solar plan that’s tailored to your exact usage profile.