Sydney, NSW – EnergyAustralia has announced a significant boost to solar feed-in tariffs (FiTs) for households in New South Wales and Queensland, launching its new ‘Solar Savers’ plan effective from July 1, 2026. The move, announced on June 26, 2026, offers a guaranteed FiT of 12 cents per kilowatt-hour (c/kWh) for the first 5 kWh of solar energy exported to the grid daily, followed by a rate of 8 c/kWh for subsequent exports.

This new offering positions EnergyAustralia competitively in the market, providing a tangible financial incentive for existing solar homeowners and those considering installing photovoltaic systems. The announcement comes amidst ongoing discussions about the true value of distributed solar generation and the often-volatile nature of wholesale electricity prices.

A Boost for Solar Returns

The ‘Solar Savers’ plan is designed to directly reward customers for their investment in renewable energy. For many solar households, particularly those with smaller systems or lower consumption during peak solar generation, the initial 12 c/kWh rate represents a notable increase compared to standard market offers. Previously, EnergyAustralia’s typical standing FiTs ranged from 5-7 c/kWh, making this a substantial uplift for eligible customers.

An EnergyAustralia spokesperson stated that the enhanced FiT reflects the growing recognition of solar power’s contribution to grid stability and the broader energy transition.

“Lower electricity prices will be welcome news for Victorian households and small business owners who continue to face cost-of-living pressures.”

While this quote is from a different context (Victorian Default Offer), it underscores the broader industry sentiment around the importance of price relief and value for energy consumers, a principle that also applies to solar export earnings. The new plan aims to encourage greater solar uptake and utilisation, particularly in regions with high solar penetration.

Market Context and Comparison

The landscape for solar feed-in tariffs in Australia has seen considerable fluctuation in recent years. While some states have experienced a general trend of decreasing FiTs, this specific announcement from EnergyAustralia offers a counter-narrative by providing a higher, guaranteed rate for a portion of daily exports. This contrasts with broader trends, such as the potential for lower solar exports in NSW from July 1, 2026, as noted in previous industry analyses.

Comparing this new offering, EnergyAustralia’s 12 c/kWh for the first 5 kWh is among the highest available for standard residential plans in NSW and QLD. Many competitors typically offer between 7-10 c/kWh, demonstrating EnergyAustralia’s aggressive play to attract and retain solar-owning customers.

For households looking to maximise their solar returns, understanding the nuances of different FiT structures is crucial. Plans often vary not only in their rates but also in the conditions attached, such as daily export limits or eligibility criteria. Homeowners should compare their current plan against this new offering and other available market deals to ensure they are getting the best value for their exported solar energy. For a comprehensive overview of how different states approach solar exports, readers can consult our Your 2026 Australian Solar Feed-in Tariffs: Up to 33c/kWh – Your State-by-State Guide to Maximising Savings.

Who Benefits and What to Consider

The ‘Solar Savers’ plan will particularly benefit households that export a consistent, moderate amount of solar energy daily. For instance, a typical 6.6 kW solar system might generate around 20-30 kWh per day, with exports varying based on household consumption patterns. A family exporting 5 kWh or more per day could see a direct increase in their bill credits.

While a higher FiT is attractive, it’s essential for consumers to consider their overall electricity consumption patterns. Maximising self-consumption of solar power remains the most cost-effective strategy, as the retail price of electricity typically far exceeds even the highest FiT. Tools like Smart Home Energy Systems: Slash Your 2026 Australian Electricity Bills by Up To 30% can help optimise self-consumption.

For those contemplating a new solar installation, understanding the potential for strong export returns, alongside the benefits of self-consumption, can influence system sizing decisions. Our guide on What Solar System Size Do You Really Need in Australia 2026? Future-Proofing for EVs & Electrification provides further insights.

EnergyAustralia’s ‘Solar Savers’ plan signals continued competition in the retail energy market, driven by the increasing penetration of rooftop solar. As of July 1, 2026, households in NSW and QLD on this plan will see a more attractive return on their solar investment, directly impacting their energy bills.