Author: Donna Wentworth

Still getting an electricity bill with solar? You’re not the only one. You’ve got panels on the roof, the sun’s doing its job — but then your power bill shows up, and it’s still hundreds of dollars. It’s frustrating, confusing, and honestly, it makes you wonder what went wrong.

This is one of the most common pain points among Australian homeowners with solar systems. The assumption is: install solar, and your power bill should vanish — or at least shrink to nothing. So when it doesn’t, it feels like something must be broken.

And sometimes, something is broken. But in most cases, it comes down to how and when you’re using your power — and what solar actually covers (and doesn’t).

At Lenergy, we see this every day. Our job isn’t just to install solar — it’s to help you make it work for your home, your habits, and your bill. And part of that is giving you the real reasons your solar might not be wiping out your energy costs — and what you can do about it.

In this article, you’ll learn:

• Why You’re Still Getting a Bill After Going Solar
• What Solar Covers — and What It Doesn’t
• Three Common Reasons Solar Bills Stay High
• Can You Reduce Your Bill Without Buying Anything New?
• When to Investigate a System Issue
• Final Thoughts — Solar Isn’t Broken, But It Might Need Adjusting

Let’s unpack what your electricity bill is actually telling you — and how your solar system fits into it.

Why You’re Still Getting a Bill After Going Solar

It’s completely normal — and actually expected — to keep receiving an electricity bill even after installing solar. In most cases, solar doesn’t wipe your bill entirely. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not working. It just means you might not be using it the way you thought.

Here’s why:

Your Home Still Draws Power From the Grid

Unless you have a battery, your solar system only powers your home while the sun is out. At night — or during cloudy stretches — you rely on the grid to supply your power. That’s when you’re charged your normal usage rate (usually $0.25–$0.40 per kWh depending on your plan).

Even if your panels produce more than you use during the day, that energy doesn’t carry over into the night — it’s either used instantly or exported to the grid.

Supply Charges Still Apply

There’s a daily “service to property” fee just for being connected to the grid. In the bill example we’ll walk through shortly, this charge was $1.30 per day, adding up to $118.30 over 91 days — even if no power was drawn. This is standard across Australia and non-negotiable unless you go entirely off-grid (which isn’t practical for most homes).

Feed-in Tariffs Aren’t Equal to What You Pay

When your solar system exports power to the grid, you earn a feed-in tariff (FiT). Here’s the catch though — it’s typically less than half of what you pay to use grid power.

If you’re paying $0.30 per kWh to import energy and only earning $0.07 per kWh to export it, then every unit of power you don’t use during the day is worth a lot less than one you do use.

That’s why self-consumption matters more than export.

Bill Was Zero — But Now I’m Paying. Why?

If you’ve had solar for a while, you might remember the days when your electricity bill was $0 — or even in credit. That’s not your imagination.

When feed-in tariffs were at their peak (up to 60 cents per kilowatt-hour – this was the golden error), exporting solar power was incredibly valuable. Homes didn’t need a battery because daytime generation alone was enough to cancel out the cost of night-time grid usage — and even cover the supply charge.

However things have changed. Most households today only get 3 to 7 cents per kilowatt-hour for exported power. Some retailers now offer no credits at all. At those rates, it’s far harder for solar alone to cancel out your full electricity bill.

Add in increased household energy use, and it’s no surprise that bills have crept back up — even with solar on your roof.

Bills Can Still Be High — Even With a Functional System

If you’re using more energy now than before (which is common after installing solar), or if your energy use is mostly after sunset, then your solar savings won’t show up on your bill the way you expected.

In the next section, we’ll break down what solar actually covers, how to read your bill properly, and why the timing of your energy use can make or break your savings.

What Solar Covers — and What It Doesn’t

Solar panels generate electricity when the sun is out. That electricity flows into your home and is used instantly. Any power you don’t use at the time it’s generated is sent back to the grid — unless you have a battery to store it.

That’s the part many solar owners aren’t told upfront: your system is only powering your home during daylight hours. Everything outside those hours still comes from the grid — and that’s reflected in your bill.

Let’s break it down in simple terms:

What Your Solar System Does Cover

• Your daytime energy usage (as long as your system is producing enough)
  
• Any surplus solar is exported to the grid — earning you a credit via the feed-in tariff
  

What Your Solar System Doesn’t Cover

• Power used before sunrise or after sunset (unless you have a battery)
  
• Daily supply charge to stay connected to the grid
  
• Controlled load circuits (e.g. off-peak hot water systems), unless they’re rewired to draw from solar
  
• Any extra usage that exceeds what your panels generate
  

Let’s Look at a Real Example

Take this electricity bill from a home that already has solar installed. Over 91 days, here’s what we see:

• Average daily usage: 13.75 kWh
  
• Average daily solar export: 11.7 kWh
  
• Feed-in tariff earned: $-0.07 per kWh = $-74.55 credit
  
• Electricity drawn from grid (anytime): 753 kWh at $0.288 = $216.86
  
• Service to property charge: $1.30/day = $118.30
  
• Total bill: $403.69
  

So what’s happening here?

This household is generating more solar than they’re using during the day — hence the large export figure. But the fact that their usage (13.75 kWh/day) is slightly higher than their export (11.7 kWh/day) means a large portion of their usage is occurring at night — when solar isn’t available, and grid power is the only option.

In short: their solar is working, however their usage patterns don’t align with the sun. And without a battery to store the excess energy, it’s being sold back to the grid at a low rate, and repurchased later at a much higher rate. To calculate the battery size we would take the lesser of the two values, in this case 11.7kWh which is the storage amount that would be required.

Three Common Reasons Solar Bills Stay High

If your solar system has been sized correctly, installed and generating electricity — but your bills are still higher than expected — the issue usually comes down to one (or more) of the following three factors.

1. You’re Using Most of Your Power at Night

This is the big one. If you’re out during the day and only start using appliances heavily in the evening — think cooking, heating/cooling, TVs, laundry — you’re relying on the grid when your solar isn’t generating. Read More about Peak Electricity Times in our recent blog here.

In this case, your solar is working. It’s just not being used when it’s available. Instead, it’s being exported to the grid at a low feed-in tariff (around 5–10 cents per kWh), while you’re buying back power in the evening at 30–40 cents per kWh.

This is why “self-consumption” is so important — using your solar energy while it’s being produced.

Simple fix: Try running your dishwasher, washing machine, and pool pump during the day if possible. Even small shifts in usage can make a big difference.

2. You’re Using More Electricity Than You Used To

Some households increase their energy use after getting solar — thinking the system will cover everything. It’s an easy assumption to make, but it can lead to bill shock.

Here’s the reality: if your solar system was designed to cover your old usage patterns — and you suddenly double your air con use or add a second fridge, or worse.. A spa (they suck the juice!) — you might end up consuming more than your panels can generate.

3. Your System Isn’t Performing As It Should

It doesn’t happen often, but sometimes your solar system might not be working properly. It could be an underperforming inverter, shading issues, a blown fuse, or even a tripped switch you didn’t notice.

A healthy system should come with performance monitoring — either through the inverter manufacturer’s app or a third-party platform. If you’re not sure how to check, reach out to your installer. They should be happy to review it and run a basic health check.

Tip: If you’re exporting very little solar or your feed-in credits have dropped suddenly, it’s worth checking.

Can You Reduce Your Bill Without Buying Anything New?

Yes — and in many cases, these small adjustments are the most cost-effective way to improve your solar savings. Before investing in more panels or a battery, it’s worth asking: are you getting the most out of the system you already have?

Here are a few simple, no-cost ways to do just that:

Shift Your Energy Use to Daylight Hours

This is the single biggest thing you can do to improve your solar ROI. The more energy you use while the sun’s out, the more you offset grid electricity.

Think about appliances you can run during the day:

• Dishwasher on a delay cycle
  
• Washing machine or dryer when the sun’s at its peak
  
• Pool pump set to run from 10am–4pm
  
• Charge your devices during the day instead of overnight

Even heating or cooling your home during daylight hours — before the evening peak — can help reduce your reliance on the grid. Find more easy, practical ways to reduce your electricity bill in our recent blog here.

Check and Compare Your Energy Plan

Not all electricity plans treat solar the same. Feed-in tariffs, time-of-use pricing, and supply charges can vary significantly. Some retailers now offer “solar-friendly” plans — others penalise you with low FiTs or inflexible conditions.

Ask yourself:

• Are you getting the best rate for your solar exports?
  
• Could a time-of-use plan benefit you if you shift usage?
  
• Are there any “free electricity” windows you can take advantage of?

To see how your current deal compares, check out our guide to the best energy providers in NSW for 2025. It includes side-by-side comparisons of feed-in tariffs, rates, and solar-friendly features.

Providers like Amber, OVO, Pacific Blue and (recently) AGL offer limited-time plans with cheaper or even free off-peak power — which becomes important if you’re considering grid charging a battery (more on that shortly).

Monitor Your System’s Performance

Many people don’t realise they can check how their solar is performing in real time. Whether it’s through a smart meter, inverter app, or electricity retailer portal — you should be able to see:

• How much energy your system is producing
  
• How much you’re using in the home
  
• How much you’re exporting
  

If you don’t have access to this data, it’s worth asking your installer for help — or using it as a reason to upgrade your monitoring tech.

 Option 2: Charge the Battery From the Grid (Yes, Really)

This sounds counterintuitive — but with the right plan, it can work.

Some retailers (like Amber, Pacific Blue, OVO, and AGL) now offer time windows of free or ultra-cheap electricity, typically during off-peak or “shoulder” periods. If you pair that with a smart battery setup and a 10 kW inverter, you can force-charge your battery from the grid during those hours.

For example:

• 3 hours of “free power”
  
• 10 kW inverter x 3 hours = 30 kWh
  

That’s enough to fully charge a 30 kWh battery — without needing to add more panels.

But how can electricity be free?

Because during certain times of the day — particularly when there’s excess renewable generation (like sunny, windy afternoons) — the wholesale cost of electricity actually drops below zero. That means energy companies are literally paying the grid to take their power.

Retailers offering “free power” plans aren’t losing money — in fact, they’re profiting from giving it to you at no cost.

So when your battery charges during those hours, you’re helping soak up excess energy on the grid — and your retailer is getting paid to make it happen.

Sounds ideal, right? It is — but there’s a catch. These plans aren’t guaranteed to stick around forever. Retailers can change their offers, remove benefits, or shift pricing structures.

If that happens, you may wish you had more solar panels to keep your battery topped up — or you may find a new retailer offering similar benefits.

Do I Need More Solar Panels — or Is It Time for a Battery?

To figure out what’s best — more panels or a battery — let’s revisit the two scenarios already explored in this article.

Scenario 1: You’re Already Exporting Solar

In our real bill example, the homeowner used 13.75 kWh per day and exported 11.7 kWh. That tells us they’re using most of their power at night.

So what happens if they add more solar?

They’ll just export more — earning 3–7 cents per kWh — instead of reducing the 30–40 cent grid power they use overnight. It’s not worth it.

Adding a battery makes more sense here. That 11.7 kWh of excess solar could be stored and used at night, cutting out most of their general usage costs.

Scenario 2: You Use More Than You Export

Now let’s say someone uses 30 kWh per day, but only exports 10 kWh.

If they add a battery, they can only fill it with the 10 kWh they’re exporting. So a big battery won’t charge fully — and the return on investment will be limited.

Adding more solar here? Same story. Without storage, they’re still exporting low and buying high. No blackout protection, no real night-time offset.

So What’s the Right Move?

• If you’re already exporting a lot, get a battery. You’re better off storing what you’ve got than selling it for a few cents.
  
• If you’re using more than you generate, and want real bill impact or blackout cover, you may need both more solar and a battery.
  

So what should you do? That’s up to you. The safest bet is often more panels — but if space or budget is tight, a large battery that can charge from the grid during low-cost or free periods could be your best move.

When to Investigate a System Issue

Sometimes, everything you’ve read so far checks out — your usage patterns make sense, your solar generation seems reasonable, and your bill still doesn’t add up. That’s when it’s time to dig a little deeper.

While most systems run smoothly, it’s not uncommon for performance to slip without any obvious signs. A faulty inverter, blown fuse, shading changes, or even something as simple as a tripped circuit breaker can quietly undermine your solar savings.

Here’s how to know when it’s time to act — and what to do about it.

Signs Your System Might Not Be Performing Properly

• Your solar export credit has dropped significantly from previous bills
  
• Your system is generating far less than it used to (especially in sunny months)
  
• You’ve noticed your inverter screen is off, flashing an error, or showing no output
  
• You’re exporting very little despite sunny weather
  

What to Check First

1. Look at your solar app or monitoring portal. Most modern inverters (like Fronius, Sungrow, Enphase, etc.) offer apps or web dashboards that show your real-time and historical solar production.
   
2. Compare to previous bills. If your export or usage data looks way off from last quarter or last summer, that’s a red flag.
   
3. Check your switchboard. Sometimes, a solar breaker can trip — especially after a storm or grid outage. If you’re comfortable and know what to look for, a quick check here can sometimes resolve the issue.
   
4. Check the inverter itself. A healthy inverter usually has a green light or clear display. If it’s flashing red or shows an error code, take a photo of the screen and contact your installer.
   

When to Contact Your Installer

If you’ve tried the above and something still doesn’t look right — call your original installer (or another trusted solar professional if they’re unavailable). They can:

• Run a system check
  
• Analyse your solar production data
  
• Test your inverter and panel performance
  
• Help you assess if upgrades (like more panels or a battery) are worth considering
  

And yes — if your system is under warranty, this visit should be free or low-cost. A reputable solar provider will be more than happy to help.

Final Thoughts — Solar Isn’t Broken, But It Might Need Adjusting

If you’ve read this far, you now know that getting a power bill after installing solar isn’t a sign something’s failed — it’s a sign that something needs adjusting.

That might be your habits, your system design, or even your expectations.

Solar is still one of the smartest long-term investments a household can make — but like any investment, the return depends on how well it’s set up and how you use it.

Here’s what to take away:

• It’s normal to still receive a bill — especially if you’re using more energy than your solar produces, or using it outside of daylight hours.
  
• Not all usage is equal. Shifting energy use to the middle of the day gives you more bang for your solar buck.
  
• Batteries can help — if you’ve got the solar generation to charge them. If you don’t, adding more panels (or smart charging from the grid) could be the missing piece.
  
• You don’t need to rush out and spend more. But understanding your usage patterns and your system’s performance is a good first step.
  
• You can only fix what you can see. So check your bill, check your system, and get advice when something doesn’t add up.
  

And if you ever find yourself looking at a power bill thinking, “Why is this still so high?” — now you’ve got a framework to figure it out.

If you’ve got solar and want help investigating your electricity bill or exploring your options — whether it’s shifting usage, checking system health, or weighing up a battery — feel free to reach out. We’re here to help you make the most of your setup.

Not every home needs the “best” battery on the market. Some just need one that fits the power bill — and the budget.

If you’ve been tossing up between Sigenergy’s premium SigenStor and the more affordable ESY Sunhome, you’re not alone. They’re two of the most talked-about batteries in Australia right now, and for good reason — they’re both modular, and both stack neatly to give you serious energy storage.

But here’s the thing: they’re not built for the same buyer. Sigenergy offers cutting-edge flexibility, full-home three-phase backup, and even EV-to-grid capability. ESY? It skips the bells and whistles for a lower price point and faster payback — however, comes with a few real limitations you need to know about.

At Lenergy, we’ve installed both — and we’ve seen exactly where each battery shines (and where it doesn’t).

In this guide, you’ll get a clear, side-by-side breakdown of Sigenergy vs ESY — from specs and performance to VPP compatibility, pricing, and who each battery is actually right for in 2025.

• Sigenergy vs ESY at a Glance
• ESY Sunhome Battery Review
• Sigenergy SigenStor Battery Review
• Side-by-Side Specs & Features Comparison
• Performance, Backup & VPP Compatibility
• Price & Payback: Which Offers Better Value?
• Which Battery Should You Choose?

Sigenergy vs ESY at a Glance

If you’re deciding between Sigenergy and ESY, here’s the bottom line:

• Sigenergy is the smarter, stronger, future-ready system. It suits high-usage homes that want full control, full backup, and full flexibility.
  
• ESY is the affordable alternative. It’s best for smaller households with single-phase power, modest daily usage, and no need for whole-home backup or EV features.

Here’s a quick visual breakdown:

In short:

• Choose Sigenergy if you want the best tech and flexibility.
  
• Choose ESY if you want a fast payback and don’t need advanced features.

ESY Sunhome Battery Review

If you want a battery that simply stores your solar and saves you money — without all the extras — the ESY Sunhome makes a strong case in 2025.

It’s a modular lithium iron phosphate (LFP) system that stacks in 5.12 kWh blocks, allowing up to 30.72 kWh of storage. It includes a 6kW hybrid inverter and is designed for single-phase homes. That alone makes it a good fit for average Aussie households — especially if your power usage is under 27kWh/day.

Explore the ESY Sunhome Battery

Key Strengths

• Affordability – One of the most cost-effective stackable batteries in Australia
  
• Simple integration – Works well with smaller solar setups
  
• Heated battery modules – Reliable even in cooler climates
  
• Modular build – Scale from 5.12kWh to 30.72kWh
  

Limitations

• Single-phase only – Not suitable for large homes needing three-phase backup
  
• 8kW PV limit – Can restrict solar generation on larger rooftops
  
• No EV charging – Not futureproofed for vehicle-to-grid
  
• VPP still pending – Limited eligibility for rebates in NSW (at time of writing)
  

Verdict

If you’re not chasing whole-home backup or cutting-edge tech — and you just want a battery that works, saves money, and pays back fast — ESY is a great option. However, if you need something more powerful or flexible, its limitations may show.

Sigenergy SigenStor Battery Review

Sigenergy’s SigenStor is what happens when a battery system is built for flexibility from the ground up. It’s modular, scalable, and comes with a built-in hybrid inverter that supports both single-phase and three-phase homes — a rare feature in 2025.

Each stackable module is either 5kWh or 8kWh, and you can go up to 48kWh per tower. It’s also one of the only batteries on the market with AC and DC EV charging, including support for vehicle-to-grid and vehicle-to-home. In short, if you’re building a future-ready home energy system, Sigenergy is hard to beat.

View the Sigenergy SigenStor Battery

Key Strengths

• All-in-one stackable tower — battery + inverter + optional EV charger
  
• 3-phase compatible — suits large homes and blackout protection
  
• Heated modules — ideal for cooler climates
  
• Smart monitoring — AI-powered energy optimisation via the mySigen app
  
• Up to 48kWh per tower — with parallel stacking for even more
  
• DC EV charging with V2G — futureproofed for emerging tech
  

Tech Snapshot

• Efficiency: 96% round-trip
  
• Operating Temp: –30 °C to 50 °C
  
• IP66 rating for weather protection
  
• Warranty: 10 years or 6,000+ cycles
  

Perfect For

• Large homes or those with complex energy needs
  
• Buyers who want smart energy management and automation
  
• Anyone wanting to participate in a VPP or claim full NSW battery rebates
  
• EV owners planning for V2H or V2G capability
  

Considerations

• Premium price point
  
• Requires Wi-Fi or optional 4G dongle for monitoring
  
• Overkill for small, single-phase homes with low usage
  

Verdict

Sigenergy is the better battery — hands down — if your budget allows for it. It’s built for flexibility, smart energy control, and full backup. However, if you don’t need those things, you might be paying for features you won’t use. At Lenergy, we strongly support Sigenergy for the right home or business.

Side-by-Side Specs & Features Comparison

Here’s how Sigenergy and ESY stack up when you line up the technical details — from capacity and inverter size to backup support and EV readiness.

What Stands Out

• Sigenergy supports large and complex installs, advanced automation, and VPP/V2G compatibility.
  
• ESY offers simplicity and affordability, but limits you to small-scale, single-phase installs — no three-phase, no EV, no VPP rebates (yet).
  

Performance, Backup & VPP Compatibility

When it comes to how your battery actually performs day-to-day — during blackouts, in a VPP, or through the changing Australian seasons — the differences between Sigenergy and ESY become more obvious.

Blackout Performance

• Sigenergy offers full-home blackout protection, even in three-phase homes. That means you can keep everything from fridges and lights to air con and hot water running during an outage — assuming your battery is sized correctly.
  
• ESY, on the other hand, can only support partial backup via single-phase. Typically, this means just essential loads like lights or your fridge — not the whole home.
  

VPP Compatibility

• Sigenergy is fully VPP-ready and eligible for the NSW battery rebate bonus when enrolled in a supported Virtual Power Plant program.
  
• ESY currently has limited VPP integration, with compatibility issues still being worked through with providers like Amber and Origin. That means no VPP cash-back at the time of writing.
  

Climate Performance

Both systems are strong performers in extreme temperatures thanks to heated battery modules — an important tick for anyone in cooler climates like Canberra or regional NSW. This feature ensures reliable charging even on freezing winter mornings.

Monitoring & Smart Energy Control

• Sigenergy offers AI-optimised energy use, automatic tariff shifting, and highly customisable settings via the mySigen app.
  
• ESY includes a basic monitoring app that shows charge levels and usage, but doesn’t offer the same depth of control or automation.

Price & Payback: Which Offers Better Value?

When it comes to value, ESY wins on upfront cost — but Sigenergy often wins long-term if you need more capacity, better backup, or want to take full advantage of VPPs and EV charging.

Typical Installed Prices (Before Rebates)

Add extras to Sigenergy (like EV charging or 4G dongle) and the gap widens further. However, rebates can help narrow that difference.

Rebate Eligibility

So while both can access the Federal rebate, only Sigenergy gets the extra NSW VPP incentive (up to $1,500 depending on battery size). That can bring the price of Sigenergy close to ESY — especially on larger setups.

Payback Period

• ESY typically pays back faster — especially for homes using under 27kWh/day and not needing whole-home backup.
  
• Sigenergy’s ROI is longer, but can be shortened by participating in VPPs, avoiding blackout stress, and using advanced features like tariff shifting and EV charging.
  

Summary

• Small usage, low budget? ESY is unbeatable on payback.
  
• Bigger usage, VPP goals, or futureproofing? Sigenergy earns its price over time.

Which Battery Should You Choose?

Both Sigenergy and ESY are great batteries — but they’re built for different households.

Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

Choose Sigenergy if:

• You want full-home blackout protection, including three-phase
  
• You plan to join a VPP and access extra NSW rebates
  
• You want smart energy features, AI optimisation, and detailed control
  
• You’re installing a larger system or want EV charging
  
• You’re happy to invest more upfront for a longer-term return
  

Learn more about Sigenergy SigenStor

Choose ESY if:

• Your daily usage is under 27kWh
  
• You don’t need three-phase or whole-home backup
  
• You want a stackable, affordable battery that pays back faster
  
• You’re looking for a simple system that integrates with most single-phase homes
  
• You’re not fussed about VPPs or EV integration (yet)
  

Learn more about ESY Sunhome Battery

Sigenergy is the better battery on paper — smarter, stronger, and more flexible. But if you don’t need everything it offers, ESY might be the better choice for your wallet.

Still unsure? Speak to a trusted installer like Lenergy who knows your home, usage patterns, and rebate eligibility. That’s where real value starts.

Choosing the Best Electricity Provider (Without Getting Ripped Off)

Picking the right electricity provider in Australia isn’t as simple as looking at a flashy rate or a juicy feed-in tariff (FiT). There’s a lot of smoke and mirrors. And what works for your neighbour might not work for you.

At Lenergy, we help Australian homeowners navigate solar, storage, and energy decisions every day — and one of the most common questions we get is: “Who is the best energy provider?.”

In this article, you’ll learn exactly what to compare, how to avoid the common traps, which tools to trust, and how to haggle like a pro. You’ll also see why no one provider is “the best” — and what your options are if you’re just unsure where to start.

• Why Picking an Electricity Provider Can Feel Confusing
• What You Actually Need to Compare (Not Just Feed-in Tariffs)
• How to Shop Smart and Haggle Hard
• The Tools That Make Comparing Easier
  • Start Here: Energy Made Easy
  • Know Your Rights
  • Thinking of Switching?
• Why We Can’t Recommend One ‘Best’ Retailer
• Want to Worry Less About Electricity Prices? Consider Solar + Battery
• Final Thoughts: Take Back Control of Your Energy Bill

Why Picking an Electricity Provider Can Feel Confusing

If you’ve ever tried to compare electricity providers, you’ve probably ended up with 15 tabs open and a headache. Every provider claims to have the “best deal,” but they all structure their plans differently — and most of them bury the real cost behind discounts, daily supply charges, or sneaky peak rates.

One offers a high feed-in tariff (FiT), but their daily supply charge is through the roof. Another gives you “pay on time” discounts — until they quietly remove them a year later.  Then you have to look at fixed vs variable rates, controlled load, general usage, off-peak, shoulder… it’s enough to make you give up and stay put.

That’s exactly what the retailers are banking on.

They don’t reward loyalty — quite the opposite. It’s often cheaper for them to offer flashy sign-up deals to new customers and quietly increase rates on long-time ones. As a result, staying with the same provider year after year can mean you’re paying more than your neighbour… for the exact same electricity.

The bottom line? There’s no one-size-fits-all plan. And unless you understand what to look for — and where providers tend to hide the true cost — it’s easy to get locked into a deal that looks good on paper but hurts in practice.

What You Actually Need to Compare (Not Just Feed-in Tariffs)

A lot of energy retailers love to hook you with one shiny number: the feed-in tariff (FiT). It’s the amount you get paid for exporting excess solar back to the grid. 

However, the average FiT in Australia is only 3-7 cents per kWh. So if a provider is waving around a 12c or 15c FiT, it’s not because they’re feeling generous — it’s because they’re overcharging you somewhere else. Usually, it’s in your general usage rate or daily supply charge.

So what should you actually be comparing?

• General Usage Rate: This is what you pay per kilowatt-hour for the electricity you use. It’s often the biggest part of your bill. Lower is better — but watch how it changes during peak vs off-peak times.
  
• Daily Supply Charge: This is the fixed amount you pay just for being connected to the grid, whether you use power or not. It can vary wildly from provider to provider.
  
• Feed-in Tariff (FiT): Still worth noting — but take it with a grain of salt. A high FiT doesn’t mean you’re getting a good deal overall.
  
• Contract Length & Exit Fees: Can you leave anytime? Or are you locked in with penalties?
  
• Discounts: Be wary of “conditional” discounts — they may vanish after 12 months, and you might be paying a higher base rate to begin with.
  

The key is to look at the whole plan, not just one flashy number. A good deal should keep your net costs down — not just promise a big credit for solar exports.

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. And if a plan feels hard to compare? That’s often by design.

How to Shop Smart and Haggle Hard

Here’s the thing most electricity retailers don’t want you to know: you can negotiate. And if you don’t like what you’re being offered, you can walk — or at least threaten to.

In fact, that’s one of the most effective tricks in the book.

Once you’ve compared a few options (we’ll show you how in the next section), call your current provider and say something like:

“I’ve been quoted a better rate with lower usage charges from [insert provider]. Can you match it or give me a reason to stay?”

You’d be surprised how often they’ll “sharpen their pencil” when you threaten to leave. Why? Because acquiring a new customer costs them far more than keeping you. But they won’t offer you a better deal unless you ask — and push a little.

Here are a few haggling tips that actually work:

• Ask for a breakdown of your current rate and compare it with competitors
  
• Mention specific offers you’ve seen from comparison sites or rivals
  
• Be polite but firm — you’re not being difficult, you’re just informed
  
• Say you’re planning to switch if they can’t offer something better
  

And if they won’t budge? Walk. Seriously. Switching providers is easier than ever, and most of the time, your power won’t even go off — it just quietly changes over behind the scenes.

Remember: electricity companies don’t reward loyalty. In fact, they often count on your inaction. Don’t give it to them.

The Tools That Make Comparing Easier

You shouldn’t need a spreadsheet and three hours of research just to work out if you’re on a good energy deal. Luckily, there are a couple of trustworthy, independent tools that cut through the complexity.

Start Here: Energy Made Easy

The Energy Made Easy website is a government-run tool that lets you compare electricity (and gas) plans based on your actual usage. It’s independent, transparent, and free.

Compare Plans – Energy Made Easy

You just enter your postcode and either upload a recent bill or manually input your usage. It’ll show you a ranked list of plans available in your area — including the total estimated cost, not just the headline rate.

Know Your Rights

If you ever feel like you’ve been misled, overcharged, or locked into a plan you didn’t agree to, there are protections in place.

Your Rights – Energy and Bills (NSW)

This site outlines what you’re entitled to as an energy customer, including how to dispute a bill or cancel a contract.

Thinking of Switching?

The NSW government also offers a step-by-step guide to switching providers. It covers what to expect, how to avoid pitfalls, and how long it takes.

These tools won’t magically give you the cheapest plan — but they will give you clarity. And in an industry built on confusion, that’s half the battle.

Why We Can’t Recommend One ‘Best’ Retailer

People often ask us, “Which energy provider should I go with?” And honestly — we can’t give you a single name. Not because we’re sitting on the fence, but because there isn’t one universal best.

Here’s why:

Retailers like AGL, Origin, Red Energy, Energy Australia, and Alinta can offer wildly different rates to different people, even in the same suburb. What you get offered depends on your usage, your solar export, your postcode, and sometimes just how hard you pushed on the phone.

Two neighbours could have the same provider but be paying completely different rates. That’s how murky the market is.

So instead of giving you a name, here’s what we suggest:

• Use the Energy Made Easy tool to see what deals are actually available to you
  
• Ignore the marketing spin — dig into the usage and supply rates, and compare apples to apples
  
• Don’t be afraid to switch — or at least threaten to. Loyalty doesn’t pay
  

There are decent deals out there — but they don’t often come to you. You have to go hunting.

Want to Worry Less About Electricity Prices? Consider Solar + Battery

If you’re sick of chasing deals, haggling rates, dodging hidden charges — there’s another path: generate and store your own power.

When you install solar panels, you reduce how much electricity you need to buy. Add a battery, and you can store excess solar to use at night instead of drawing from the grid. That means you’re far less exposed to rising supply charges or shrinking feed-in tariffs.

To be clear — going solar doesn’t mean you’re cutting ties with your electricity provider entirely. However, it does mean you stop caring quite so much about what they do next.

It’s the only real way to regain control.

Of course, solar and battery systems are an investment, and they’re not right for everyone. However, if you’re using a lot of power — particularly in the evenings — or you’re fed up with the energy market merry-go-round, it’s worth seriously considering.

Not sure where to start or how to decode your bill to see if it makes sense? That’s something we can help with. No sales pitch — just help understanding whether energy independence is a smart move for your household.

Final Thoughts: Take Back Control of Your Energy Bill

Choosing the best electricity provider for your home or business shouldn’t feel overwhelming — However for most Australians, that’s unfortunately the reality. With confusing plans, inconsistent pricing, and limited reward for loyalty, it can be frustrating.

However, now you know not to get sucked in by a shiny feed-in tariff. You know how to spot the real costs in a plan. You’ve got tools to compare offers clearly, rights to protect yourself, and haggling tips that work.

There’s no perfect provider. But there is a perfect plan for your situation — if you’re willing to do a bit of homework.

Solar and battery storage can give you real freedom — not just from rising bills, but from the stress of watching them. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure, reach out. Whether it’s decoding your bill or understanding how solar might help, we’re here to make it clearer — not sell you something.

If you’ve been considering a home battery in NSW, you’ve likely come across news about the state’s battery rebate program—and now, the unexpected update that it’s coming to an end.

From 1 July 2025, the NSW Government will suspend its battery installation rebate, which has helped thousands of households reduce the cost of installing a battery. Here’s what’s changing, and what it means for homeowners.

Why Is the Rebate Being Suspended Now?

For months, both Penny Sharpe (NSW Energy Minister) and Chris Bowen (Federal Energy Minister) publicly stated they were working to overcome the issue of “incentive stacking”—the challenge of offering state and federal rebates on the same battery install. They encouraged people to carry on as normal, suggesting a collaborative solution was in the works.

So it’s come as a surprise to many that NSW has now confirmed its battery rebate will end on 1 July, right when the new federal program is expected to begin.

There’s still support coming from the Commonwealth—potentially covering up to 30% of the battery cost—but the change of direction at state level has caught many off guard. Especially for homeowners who made plans under the assumption that both incentives could be used together.

What Will Replace the NSW Battery Rebate?

Rather than continue offering a rebate, the NSW Government will instead boost Virtual Power Plant (VPP) incentives under the Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS).

If you install a battery and sign up to a VPP with an eligible provider, you could receive up to $1,500, depending on the system size and provider offer—an increase from the average $800 currently available.

However, this is not the same as a direct, upfront rebate. To access the VPP incentive, you must:

• Sign up for a minimum three-year VPP contract
  
• Agree to let your battery be accessed by the provider during certain times (typically peak demand)
  

For some homeowners, that’s no issue. For others, particularly those who want to maintain full control over how and when their battery is used, the idea of being locked into a contract—and potentially seeing their stored energy discharged when they need it most—raises concerns.

So while stacking the state’s VPP incentive with the federal battery rebate is possible, it’s not quite the solution many were expecting.

Is It Still Worth Getting a Battery?

Yes, it still is. While the NSW battery rebate is coming to an end, the federal rebate is substantial—covering around 30% of battery system costs, which adds up quickly, especially for larger installations.

This new rebate alone makes battery storage far more accessible than before—and that’s before you even consider additional incentives like VPP payments under NSW’s PDRS scheme.

How Much Can You Save with the 2025 Battery Rebates?

Here is a clear look at potential savings using Sigenergy’s SigenStor modular batteries:

These figures demonstrate how substantial the rebate really is. Even without a state rebate or VPP participation, these discounts significantly lower the upfront cost.

However, it’s worth noting that VPP incentives, while still available, require a minimum 3-year commitment and some level of operational control over your battery. That’s not something everyone is comfortable with, especially if you prefer full control of your stored energy or the flexibility to change plans later.

So, if you’re considering a battery—and would rather avoid long contracts—a system like Sigenergy’s, combined with the federal rebate alone, could still offer great value without compromise.

Final Thoughts

This rebate change has come sooner—and more definitively—than many expected, especially after repeated reassurances from both state and federal ministers.

It’s disappointing for those who planned to make the most of both incentive streams. And while support hasn’t disappeared entirely, it now comes with more conditions and longer commitments than what was originally promised.

At Lenergy, our goal is to keep homeowners informed—not pressured. If you’d like to stay updated on how these policy changes evolve, or want help understanding what your options look like under the new structure, feel free to get in touch at lenergy.com.au/contact.

We’ll continue to share transparent, up-to-date information to help you make the best decision for your home.