Queensland has some of the highest rooftop solar uptake in Australia. But the best solar electricity plans in QLD are not always the ones with the highest advertised feed in tariff. The right plan depends on where you live (Energex or Ergon network), how much solar you export, when you use power (day vs evening), and whether you are on a flat or time of use tariff.
This guide explains what to compare, common traps, and how to pick a plan that lowers your total bill, not just boosts your FiT.
Quick checklist: what makes a solar plan “best” in Queensland?
- Feed in tariff (FiT) that matches your export profile, including any caps or tiers.
- Competitive import (usage) rates for the energy you still buy from the grid, especially evening peak.
- Low daily supply charge.
- Tariff type that suits your household or business: single rate vs time of use, and in some cases demand tariffs.
- Clear, realistic conditions, for example whether a pay on time discount applies, or if the FiT is promotional.
How solar feed in tariffs work in QLD (Energex vs Ergon)
A solar feed in tariff is what your electricity retailer pays you for excess solar electricity exported to the grid. In Queensland, the competitive landscape differs by distribution network area.
South East Queensland (Energex network)
- There is no regulated minimum FiT in the Energex area, retailers set their own rates.
- Offers can change frequently, and the headline FiT is often balanced against higher import rates.
Regional Queensland (Ergon network)
- In many regional areas, the Queensland Competition Authority (QCA) sets a minimum FiT for eligible customers, with retailers able to offer more.
- Eligibility and tariff arrangements can differ based on metering and connection, so it is worth checking your bill details before switching.
Compare the total cost, not the FiT headline
Most solar households and businesses still import electricity from the grid, commonly early morning and after sunset. That is why the best plan is the one that minimises your net cost after all charges and credits are applied.
When comparing solar electricity plans in QLD, look at:
- Daily supply charge (fixed cost per day)
- Import usage rates (single rate or peak, shoulder, off peak)
- FiT structure (flat, tiered, capped, promotional)
- Other fees (payment fees, exit fees where applicable, paper bill fees)
Common solar plan traps
- Tiered FiTs: a high rate for the first portion of exports per day, then a much lower rate.
- Short term bonus FiTs: elevated rates that revert after a promotion ends.
- Higher peak import rates: plans that increase your after-hours costs to fund a higher FiT.
- Export caps: the advertised rate applies only up to a daily limit.
Single rate vs time of use in Queensland: which is better for solar?
Queensland customers may be on a single rate tariff or a time of use tariff. There is no universal best option, it depends on when you import from the grid.
Single rate plans
Often suit customers who have moderate evening usage and want predictable billing. They can also work well if you cannot shift much load away from peak times.
Time of use plans
Time of use can help if you can shift flexible loads (EV charging, pool pumps, hot water heating, some business processes) into off peak periods. But for many solar homes, time of use can cost more if you import a lot during peak after sunset.
What to check on your current bill before you switch
- Your distributor and tariff: Energex vs Ergon, and whether you are on single rate or time of use.
- Average daily import and export in kWh.
- When you import: if you have interval data, check your evening peak share.
- Controlled load arrangements for hot water or pool equipment.
- Meter type: smart meter vs basic meter, since it affects which tariffs and plans you can access.
How to maximise solar savings in QLD
Use more of your solar generation on site
In many cases, the electricity you self-consume is worth more than exporting, because retail import rates are typically higher than FiTs. Where possible, shift energy use into daylight hours.
Review whether a battery is worth it
A battery can increase self-consumption by storing solar for evening use. Whether it makes financial sense depends on the battery cost, your usage profile, and the import rates you would otherwise pay. It is usually best evaluated alongside a plan and tariff review.
Re-check your plan every 12 months
Solar FiTs and electricity pricing change regularly. An annual review helps you avoid drifting onto uncompetitive rates.
How Zembl helps you find the best solar electricity plans in QLD
Zembl compares solar-friendly electricity plans using your actual bill data, so you can prioritise net savings rather than headline rates. If you proceed, we can manage the switching paperwork for you.
- Bill and tariff review (imports, exports, supply charge, tariff type)
- Plan comparison from our retailer panel, based on your usage
- Clear explanation of caps, tiers, time of use impacts, and conditions
- Switching support end to end
Related reading
Frequently asked questions
What is a good solar feed in tariff in QLD?
It depends on your location and retailer and it changes over time. A good FiT is one that improves your total bill outcome once you include import rates, supply charge, and any FiT caps or tiers.
Will switching retailers affect my solar system or credits?
No. Your solar system stays the same and your distributor remains the same. In most cases there is no interruption to supply during the switch.
How do I know which plan is best for my address?
The most accurate method is a bill-based comparison that models your imports and exports against the plan’s full price structure. This is what Zembl does during a free review.
Get a free QLD solar plan review
If you want help comparing solar electricity plans in Queensland, Zembl can review your latest bill, explain your options clearly, and help you switch if a better deal is available.
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