Amber Electric Review
Amber Electric isn't technically a VPP, but it achieves a similar outcome. Amber passes through wholesale electricity prices directly to customers, meaning when you export battery power during a price spike, you earn the full wholesale rate (minus Amber's small fee). With Amber's SmartShift feature, compatible batteries can automate this process.
How Amber Electric works
As an Amber customer, you see real-time wholesale electricity prices in the Amber app. When prices are low (often during the day when solar floods the grid), your battery charges. When prices spike (typically 4pm–8pm), your battery exports and you earn the high wholesale rate. Amber's SmartShift feature can automate this for compatible batteries (primarily Tesla Powerwall), or you can manage it manually through your battery app.
Payment structure
You earn (or pay) wholesale prices for every kWh imported or exported. During a typical evening peak, prices might be 20–40c/kWh. During extreme demand events, prices can spike above $1/kWh or even $15/kWh briefly. Amber charges a daily subscription fee ($15–$20/month) and a small margin on wholesale prices. Your bill reflects net wholesale costs minus exports.
Realistic earnings
Battery export earnings vary enormously with Amber. In a good year with frequent price spikes, a Powerwall owner might net $500–$800 from exports. In a quieter year, $200–$400 is more typical. The risk is that if you're importing during a spike (battery empty), you pay the high wholesale rate too. Amber suits engaged users who understand wholesale pricing.
Pros and cons
thumb_upPros
- checkTrue wholesale pricing for exports
- checkHigh earnings during price spikes
- checkWorks with most battery brands
- checkReal-time price visibility via app
thumb_downCons
- removeRequires active management for best results
- removeVariable and sometimes negative prices
- removeNot a traditional VPP (wholesale retailer)
- removeRisk of high import costs during spikes
Compatible batteries
The following batteries are confirmed compatible with Amber Electric.
Under the federal Cheaper Home Batteries rebate, all on-grid batteries must be VPP-capable to qualify. This means any battery eligible for the ~30% rebate is also compatible with Amber Electric and other VPP programs. Check the CER approved battery list for the full catalogue.
Contact Amber Electric for the latest compatibility list as new battery models are added regularly.
State availability
Amber Electric is available in the following states:
How to sign up
Sign up for Amber Electric as your retailer. Connect your battery through the Amber app (SmartShift). Tesla Powerwall integration is the most automated. Other batteries can be used but may require manual management or third-party tools for automation. Allow 2–4 weeks for retailer transfer.
Requirements: Amber customer · Compatible battery · All NEM states
Who is Amber Electric best for?
Tech-savvy battery owners who want wholesale price exposure and are comfortable with variable earnings. Works best with Tesla Powerwall (SmartShift automation) in SA or VIC where price spikes are most frequent.
Amber Electric FAQs
How much can I earn with Amber Electric?
Amber Electric participants typically earn $200 – $800 per year with a 10kWh battery. Earnings depend on your state, battery size, and the number of grid events during the year. South Australian households tend to earn the most due to frequent price spikes.
What batteries work with Amber Electric?
Amber Electric is compatible with: Tesla Powerwall, BYD Battery-Box, Sungrow SBR, Enphase IQ, Alpha ESS, SolaX, GoodWe. Check with Amber Electric for the latest compatibility list as new battery models are added regularly.
Is there a lock-in contract with Amber Electric?
No, Amber Electric has no lock-in contract. You can leave at any time.
Which states is Amber Electric available in?
Amber Electric is currently available in NSW, VIC, SA, QLD, TAS, ACT. Coverage may expand in the future, check with Amber Electric for the latest availability.
How does Amber Electric compare to other VPPs?
Amber Electric offers export rates of Wholesale (variable) and estimated annual earnings of $200 – $800. See our comparison table for how it stacks up against other programs. Visit our VPP comparison hub for a side-by-side breakdown.
Related reading
Side-by-side earnings comparison to help you decide.
Battery Arbitrage AustraliaProfit from time-of-use tariffs and wholesale price spikes.
Best Solar Batteries 2026Top home batteries reviewed with VPP compatibility.
Solar Battery Rebate 2026Get ~30% off your battery with the federal rebate.
Compare alternatives
| Program | Export Rate | Est. Annual | Lock-in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amber Electric (this review) | Wholesale (variable) | $200 – $800 | No lock-in |
| Tesla Energy Plan | 12–22c/kWh | $200 – $500 | No lock-in |
| Origin Loop VPP | Up to 20c/kWh | $300 – $600 | 12 months |
| AGL Virtual Power Plant | 15–18c/kWh | $250 – $500 | 24 months |
| Simply Energy VPP | 18–25c/kWh | $300 – $700 | No lock-in |
Need a VPP-compatible battery?
Get quotes from local installers for a battery that works with Amber Electric and other VPP programs.
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