Feed-in Tariff Rates 2026
Compare solar feed-in tariff rates across Australian states. See what you can earn for exporting excess solar to the grid.
lightbulbQuick Summary
Feed-in tariff rates across Australia typically range from 3-10c per kWh in 2026. Rates have declined from historic highs as solar adoption increases. The best strategy is to maximise self-consumption rather than chase the highest FiT rates.
Rates by State
New South Wales
NSWNo mandatory minimum. Rates vary significantly between retailers.
Victoria
VICMinimum rate set by Essential Services Commission (ESC).
Queensland
QLDRegional QLD (Ergon network) often has better rates.
South Australia
SARates have dropped significantly in recent years due to high solar penetration.
Western Australia
WASynergy is the main retailer. DEBS rate applies for small systems.
Tasmania
TASAurora Energy is the main retailer with fixed rates.
Maximising Your Solar Value
Self-consumption is more valuable
Using your own solar (saving 30c/kWh) beats exporting (earning 5c/kWh). Shift loads to daytime.
Time-of-export tariffs
Some retailers pay more for exports during peak demand periods (4-9pm). Check if available.
Compare total plan value
A high FiT with high usage rates may cost more than low FiT with low usage rates.
Consider a battery
If FiT is below 5c, storing excess solar for evening use often makes more financial sense.
How Feed-in Tariffs Work
When your solar panels produce more electricity than your home is using, the excess is automatically exported to the electricity grid. Your retailer pays you a feed-in tariff (FiT) for this exported energy.
Key Points
- Rates vary by retailer — Different retailers offer different FiT rates, even in the same state
- Rates are not regulated everywhere — Only Victoria has a mandatory minimum rate
- Self-consumption is more valuable — Using your own solar (saving 30c/kWh) is worth more than exporting (5c/kWh)
- Time-varying rates exist — Some retailers pay more during peak demand periods
- No FiT on batteries — Electricity discharged from batteries typically doesnt earn FiT
FiT vs Usage Rate
Its important to compare the total value of an energy plan, not just the FiT rate. A plan with a high FiT (10c) but high usage rate (35c) may cost more than a plan with lower FiT (5c) but lower usage rate (28c), depending on your consumption patterns.
Not Getting Good Returns?
If your feed-in tariff is low, a battery might help you use more of your own solar. See your rebate eligibility.
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