Feed-in Tariff Rates Australia 2026
Compare solar feed-in tariff rates across Australian states. See what you can earn for exporting excess solar to the grid.
Data updated: 16 January 2026
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.
Feed-in Tariff 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 due to high solar penetration.
Tasmania
TASAurora Energy is the main retailer with fixed rates.
Australian Capital Territory
ACTLimited retailer competition in the territory.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a feed-in tariff?
A feed-in tariff (FiT) is the rate your electricity retailer pays you for excess solar energy you export to the grid. When your solar panels produce more electricity than your home is using, the surplus is sent to the grid and you receive a credit on your electricity bill.
What is the average feed-in tariff in Australia?
In 2026, feed-in tariff rates across Australia typically range from 3-10 cents per kWh. Victoria has a regulated minimum rate, while other states have market-based rates that vary by retailer. Rates have declined from historic highs as solar adoption has increased.
Is a high feed-in tariff better than self-consumption?
No. Self-consumption is almost always more valuable. When you use your own solar, you save around 30c/kWh (your usage rate). When you export, you only earn 3-10c/kWh. This means using your own solar is worth 3-6 times more than exporting it.
Should I get a battery if my feed-in tariff is low?
If your feed-in tariff is below 5c/kWh, a battery can help you capture more value from your solar by storing excess energy for evening use. With rebates available in most states, batteries are becoming increasingly cost-effective.
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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