Ergon Tariff 12(E): The Solar Soaker
Ergon Tariff 12(E) is a time of use tariff known as the Solar Soaker, designed to encourage solar system owners to maximise the benefits of solar energy. By adjusting your usage habits, you can make the optimal use of the solar feed-in tariff 12(e) and significantly reduce your electricity bill.
From 11AM to 4PM (Off Peak)
During this period, the 12E feed-in tariff rate is at its lowest, set at just 7.7 cents per kWh. This is the ideal time to run energy-intensive appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, clothes dryers, electric hot water systems, and EV chargers.
This is also the best time to force charge your battery from the grid if required since the energy is so cheap. This can be useful on rainy or stormy days as a backup, to make sure the battery is fully charged before entering the peak rate period.
From 4PM to 9PM (Peak Usage)
The peak rate during this time is significantly higher, at 57.3 cents per kWh. It is best to rely on battery storage only during this time to power your lights, fans, ovens, and electric cooktops. Avoid using grid energy, as the high electricity prices make this period costly. By harnessing your stored solar power during these hours, you can utilise your energy effectively and minimise reliance on the grid.
From 9PM to 11AM (Shoulder Period)
During these hours, most people are either asleep or at work, making energy consumption less of a concern. The tariff rate during this time is $0.26375 per kWh, which is cheaper than the previous tariff 11 rate of $0.32973 per kWh. This means even when you’re not home, you can still benefit from lower rates, making the solar soaker feed-in tariff more advantageous.
By understanding the solar feed-in tariffs landscape and adjusting your habits, you can maximise the efficiency of your solar system. Solar & battery households can reduce their energy bills by strategically timing their electricity usage, thereby taking full advantage of the current feed-in tariff rates and ensuring the best value of solar and stored battery energy for their homes.
Founder of Horan & Bird. Director of Master Electricians Australia and Board Member of Solar Accreditation Australia. John has played a key entrepreneurial role in the transformation of the Energy Landscape in Queensland.
