44c Feed-in Tariff: (Part 2) When & How to Upgrade Home Solar System
Huge response to last week’s article has prompted more explanation with this → PART 2.
In our last article, we looked at why many South Australians on the 44c/kW + Feed-in Tariff (FiT) are finding their bills creeping up — even though they still receive the high rate until July 2028.
So the big question is: When and how should you upgrade your system?
Well the answer is easy → If your yearly bills are over $1200 (or $100 monthly), it’s time to ditch the FiT and upgrade.
Why Upgrade Home Solar System?
Many early adopters installed 1.5–3kW systems more than 15 years ago. Back then, it was enough to make a noticeable difference. Old systems have:
- Very poor inverter & panel technology that’s very inefficient.
- Leave many households still paying $100+ per month on bills.
👉 That means your 44c FiT is only applying to a small trickle of power — so the returns aren’t what they used to be.
What We’re Seeing
Many early solar systems were installed with a “set and forget” mindset. The problem is, without regular servicing, performance drops significantly. We’re finding plenty of older systems that have never been checked — with some inverters now running at 30% efficiency or less.
How Can You Upgrade While Keeping the 44c FiT?
The SA Government allows certain types of upgrades that keep your FiT locked in until July 2028:
1. Like-for-Like Swap (No Size Increase)
- Replace your old panels and inverter with modern, efficient ones.
- Keep the system size the same (e.g. 1.5kW → new 1.5kW).
- Keeps your 44c FiT active.
2. Inverter Replacement Only
- If your inverter fails, or is under performing, you can replace it with a compliant new one (same or smaller size).
- Keeps your 44c FiT.
3. Future-Proof Upgrades
- Some new inverters are designed for easy expansion.
- When the 44c FiT ends in 2028, you can couple the inverter without replacing the entire unit.
Cheaper Home Batteries Program
This is the Federal Government’s prompt to signal IT’S TIME TO UPGRADE.
If you’ve been thinking about adding storage, now is a great time. Under the Australian Government’s Cheaper Home Batteries Program, households can access an average 30% discount on new batteries. In just the first two months of the program, 50,000 batteries were installed nationwide — a clear sign Australians are seizing the chance to lower bills and increase energy independence.
By pairing a new, FiT-friendly solar upgrade with a government-subsidised battery, you can:
- Crush your Bills & avoid rising power increases
- Reduce your evening and overnight power bills.
- Beat the 2028 FiT finish.
When Should You Upgrade?
Don’t wait while your old system fails or the 2028 deadline approaches. By upgrading now, you:
- Capitalise on New Technology once again.
- Trade in your FiT and enjoy Energy Retailer Freedom.
- Add battery storage with substantial government support.
- Future-proof your energy use for the next 20 years.
We specialise in Feed-in Tariff friendly upgrades
Preparing your home for the next stage of clean, efficient energy.
Talk to us if you have any questions on 8370 9555 to or request a quote below.
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