The 60c Solar Feed-in Tariff Has Ended
What Now?
Did Your Solar Bills Just Jump? Here’s Why
If you were on the 60c Premium Feed-in Tariff (PFIT), you probably barely paid for electricity—some people even got bill credits!
But as of 1st November 2024, that incredible deal ended.
Now, the feed-in tariff has dropped to as little as 3.3c per kWh, meaning:
- Lower solar export payments—you’re getting paid much less for excess power.
- Higher electricity costs—power used at night is now much more expensive.
- A need to rethink your solar setup—to avoid big power bills.
If you haven’t made changes yet, now is the time! Here’s what you need to do.
What Was the 60c PFIT?
Between 2009 and 2011, eligible solar customers received 60c per kWh for the excess power they exported to the grid. Unlike NSW’s gross feed-in tariff, Victoria’s was net metered—meaning you only got paid for unused energy, not everything you generated.
For many early adopters, this meant tiny power bills—or even credits. But come November 2024, those on the Premium Feed-in Tariff will be moved to a standard rate as low as 3.3c per kWh.
This means:
- Lower credits on your bill—you’ll earn less from exported solar.
- More reliance on the grid—higher costs for power used at night.
- A need to rethink your solar setup—if you want to keep saving.
Now that you’re no longer earning 60c per kWh, it’s time to use more of your solar at home and make sure your system is working in your favour.
How to Take Back Control of Your Power Bills
1. Stop Selling Cheap, Start Using More Solar
The key to saving money now? Use your solar power instead of exporting it for just a few cents.
💡 Here’s how:
- Run appliances during the day – washing machines, dishwashers, pool pumps.
- Time your hot water system – heat up when your solar is generating.
- Use staggered energy loads – spread out usage to avoid drawing from the grid.
2. Expand Your Solar System
Most systems installed under the PFIT were only 1kW–3kW.
Now, with the average home using more electricity, it makes sense to upgrade to 6kW–10kW or more to cover daytime usage.
👉 Good news: There are still Victorian solar rebates available for upgrades!
3. Add a Home Battery – Store Solar for Night Use
Instead of selling excess solar for just 3.3c per kWh, store it in a battery and use it at night—when grid power is the most expensive.
Why invest in a battery?
- ✅ Use your own solar at night instead of buying expensive grid power.
- ✅ Protect yourself from rising electricity prices.
- ✅ Keep the lights on during blackouts.
4. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Hot Water System
A CO₂ heat pump hot water system can reduce your water heating costs by up to 75%. When paired with solar, you could eliminate hot water bills entirely!
5. Compare Energy Plans – But Look Beyond Feed-in Tariffs
Now that feed-in tariffs are so low, don’t just chase the highest rate—look at:
- ✅ Daily supply charges
- ✅ Peak/off-peak rates
- ✅ Time-of-use pricing
Use the Victorian Government’s energy comparison tool for an unbiased search.
Let’s Replace or Expand Your Solar – Start Saving More Today!
If your solar system is over 12 years old, it’s likely less efficient than today’s advanced technology. Upgrading or expanding your system can help you generate more power and cut your energy costs.
Don’t let an outdated system hold you back. Call us today for an upgrade!