This guide is tailored for Queensland residents looking to take advantage of 2025 solar battery rebates and VPP offers.
Why is this relevant to me?
To be able to access the new National ‘Cheaper Home Batteries Program’ your new solar battery needs to be VPP capable.
This means, it needs to have the capacity to be connected into a VPP, however it is not mandatory you join one.
The government is pushing this as a way to encourage VPP participation.
That’s a lot of loaded jargon we threw out there at you, we know. So if your head’s spinning, don’t worry.
Now we’ll break it down…
Jargon Explained:
What is a Virtual Power Plant?
VPP / Virtual Power Plant is a new type of energy network.
Unlike a traditional power plant that relies on a singular centralised facility that often relies on coal and other fossil fuels to produce energy, a VPP is a decentralised network of solar systems (with solar panels, inverters, batteries and smart monitoring devices) from opted-in homeowners or business-owners that supplements the energy grid.
This gives the VPP operator the ability to pull from this power at peak periods of demand and reward those opted-in within the network.
Every VPP offers different incentives to make joining more appealing.
Reasons People Join a VPP
- VPPs often offer higher returns than solar feed-in tariffs
- VPPs can provide some great upfront financial benefits to make it easier to invest in solar or reduce some early expenses
- VPP participation can help shorten the payback period for the cost of new solar upgrades, like solar battery storage
- It helps support the energy grid and provides a path forward for Australia to meet its carbon reduction goals
What You Also Need to Watch Out for
That being said, there are also some cons to joining a Virtual Power Plant that you also need to be aware of – if you’re thinking of taking the leap.
- VPP Participation will mean some added wear and tear on your battery
Joining a VPP may cycle through your battery faster than you would, with charges and discharges. However, most solar battery product performance warranties are 10 years and many estimated payback periods for a solar battery in a VPP are 5-7 years. This still means a significant financial return in the long run.
- You can be left without much backup power in the case of a blackout
Most VPPs promise to maintain a minimum reserve based on a percentage, in case of blackouts. This is something you might want to compare between the different providers.
- You compromise control, and can end up exposed to peak time electricity prices
In a recent story on ABC News, a Sydney household user that joined an AGL VPP spoke about how his battery started getting drained in peak times which forced him to pay higher prices, because of demand tariffs.
VPP Offers Available in Queensland
(Last Updated: June 27, 2025)
South East Queensland: Brisbane, Gold Coast, Ipswich, Sunshine Coast, and Toowoomba.
Tweed Heads is technically South of the NSW border, but is sometimes included as SEQ).
Are you locked in once you join?
It depends on the provider, but in many cases — no, you’re not locked in.
A lot of VPPs today are designed with flexibility in mind, especially if you want the freedom to opt out or switch things up later.
No Lock-in VPPs
These options give you the freedom to come and go:
- ShineHub – No contracts or exit fees. You can keep your current retailer too.
- Origin Loop – Join or leave whenever you like. Participation is event-based and totally optional.
- sonnenConnect – No lock-in, no exit fees, and you stay in control of your setup.
- Tesla Energy Plan (via Energy Locals) – As long as you’re using a Powerwall, you can leave anytime.
- Amber for Batteries – You pay a monthly subscription, but there’s no long-term commitment.
- ENGIE VPPs (New Battery & BYO) – There’s no mention of lock-in contracts, and monthly VPP credits keep things simple.
Mostly Flexible VPPs
No strict contracts here, but you might need to stay active to get the full benefits:
- EnergyAustralia PowerResponse – You choose when to participate, typically during peak times.
- Discover Energy – No fixed term, but consistent participation helps maximise your earnings.
- Charge Force (Powershop) – No clear lock-in, though it works best with ongoing use.
- GloBird ZEROHERO – No contract, but there are rules around metering and energy patterns.
Locked-In VPPs
These ones involve more structure or fixed agreements:
- Reposit No Bill™ – Yes, this one does lock you in. It’s a 7-year plan where you get all hardware installed and Reposit pays your energy bills in full.
- AGL BYO Battery – They offer bill credits over 12 months, so while it’s not a long-term contract, there’s likely a minimum commitment.
- sonnenFlat – There’s no official contract, but the plan includes usage and export thresholds you’ll need to stick to.
If flexibility is important to you, there are plenty of VPP options in Queensland that don’t lock you in. Just be sure to double-check the fine print — even flexible plans might have requirements around equipment compatibility or usage patterns.
Need Help Choosing the Right Path?
Deciding whether to join a Virtual Power Plant isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. While the potential savings, grid support, and upfront benefits are compelling, it’s just as important to weigh the trade-offs—like battery wear, blackout reserves, and the level of control you’re comfortable giving up.
Whether you’re ready to install a new battery system or simply exploring your options, getting the right advice can make all the difference.
Talk to Snap Solar — Your Local Solar Battery Experts in SEQ
At Snap Solar, we help Queensland homeowners cut through the complexity.
We’ll walk you through:
- Whether VPP participation suits your usage habits and goals
- What battery models are VPP-compatible (and rebate-eligible)
- How to maximise your return on a new battery investment
If you’re installing a new battery—or upgrading your system—let’s make sure it’s smart, future-ready, and tailored to you.
Book a free consultation with Snap Solar today and get personalised advice from local solar specialists who understand the Queensland energy market inside and out.
FAQs
Are Tesla Powerwall 3 solar batteries VPP capable?
Yes, they are! The Tesla Powerwall 3 is built for smart energy use and is fully VPP capable. It works seamlessly with Tesla’s own Virtual Power Plant programs—like the Tesla Energy Plan available in parts of Queensland—and is often supported by other VPP providers too. With built-in automation and grid-aware tech, it’s a great choice if you’re looking to earn from your solar setup while helping stabilise the grid.
Are BYD solar batteries VPP capable?
They sure are. BYD’s solar batteries—like the HV Battery Box, LVS, and Battery Box Pro—can be used in VPPs when paired with the right hybrid inverter and a participating provider. These batteries are known for their safety, long lifespan, and smart energy features. So if you’ve got BYD or are considering one, you’re well set up to join a VPP and get more out of your solar.
Are Sungrow solar batteries VPP capable?
Yes, Sungrow batteries are VPP ready. With their high efficiency, fast backup switch-over, and solid capacity range, they’re designed to play well with the grid. When connected to a compatible system, they can join various VPPs—like those from Origin or Discover Energy—giving you the chance to save more and support energy stability in your area.
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