Comparing Virtual Power Plant (VPP) providers in Australia? By joining a VPP, your home battery can earn you extra income, improve payback, and support grid reliability—especially when paired with available solar battery rebates. But not all VPPs are the same. Some programs offer higher payouts, while others focus on upfront battery discounts or zero-bill guarantees.
This guide compares the top VPP providers across contract terms, retailer lock-in, financial incentives, and battery compatibility—so you can find the option that fits your needs. Learn more about how Virtual Power Plants work or explore our solar battery price guide to estimate your return on investment.
Top 5 Best Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) in Australia (2025)
Want the fast version? These are our top picks for 2025, based on rebates, rewards, flexibility, and transparency:
- Amber SmartShift – Best for earning the most when prices spike
- Discover Energy – Best for easy daily payments (no advance setup) + bonus income
- ShineHub – Best for big discount when buying a new battery (stack with Fed + State Incentives)
- Redback Smart VPP – Best for simple setup with no lock-in
- Origin Loop – Best for Origin customers who want decent bonuses with minimal effort
Top VPP Provider Comparison Table
| VPP Provider | Retailer Lock-In | Contract Term | Battery Control | Main Financial Benefit | Key Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amber SmartShift | No | None | Full user control via app | Access to wholesale market prices (up to $19/kWh); typical earnings $1,000+/year | $25/month fee; performance varies with market volatility; requires active app engagement |
| Discover Energy VPP | Yes (Discover) | None | Fixed reserve (~20–30%) | $0.30/kWh feed-in tariff for first 3.28kWh/day + AI energy trading bonus (avg. $300–$800/year) | Requires switching to Discover Energy; lower export rates after cap; trading profits not guaranteed |
| ShineHub VPP | No | 5 years (with exit clawback) | Fixed reserve (~20%) | Up to $2,000 battery discount + ~$0.55–$0.65/kWh export rates during grid events | 5-year lock-in; early exit fee; must use ShineHub battery hardware |
| Redback Smart VPP | No | None | Adjustable via Redback app | Earn modest credits (~$100–$200/year); no fees; no retailer switch | Only works with Redback battery systems; no fixed earning structure publicly listed |
| Origin Loop (BYO) | Yes (Origin Energy) | None if BYO; 5 yrs if bought | Fixed reserve (~20% on Powerwall) | $1.00/kWh payout during events (up to 200kWh/year) + $200 signup bonus (max ~$400/year) | Must be on Origin energy plan; export earnings capped; limited event frequency |
Top Virtual Power Plants in 2025 – Detailed Reviews
Amber Electric – SmartShift
Amber’s SmartShift program helps you get paid more for your solar battery by tapping into the real-time electricity wholesale market. Instead of earning a fixed feed-in tariff, your battery exports energy when prices are high—often during peak demand or grid stress. These prices can spike up to $19/kWh, far above standard rates.
Fast facts:
- Battery compatibility: Tesla Powerwall, AlphaESS, GoodWe, Sungrow, SolarEdge
- Contract Term: No contract term, no retailer lock-in
- Battery control: User sets minimum reserve via app
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Full control of battery reserve | $25/month fee adds up (~$300/year) |
| Keep your existing electricity retailer | Less ideal for low-export homes |
| Access to premium wholesale export prices ( up to $19/kWh) | Requires active monitoring to maximise returns |
| Transparent pricing via Amber app | Export income is unpredictable |
Best for: There’s no contract and no need to switch electricity retailers. Homeowners retain full control over how much battery capacity is used for trading (think blackout protection).
Discover Energy VPP
Discover offers a simple, automated VPP with a generous feed-in rate and bonus trading payouts. Households earn $0.30/kWh for the first ~3.28kWh/day, plus up to $800/year in energy trading bonuses—if market conditions are favourable.
- Retailer Lock-In: Yes (Discover Energy)
- Contract Term: None
- Battery Control: Fixed reserve (~20–30%)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High feed-in rate ($0.30/kWh for first 3.28kWh/day) | You have to switch to Discover Energy |
| Bonus payments through AI trading system | Lower rates after daily export cap |
| No contract term | Trading profits aren’t guaranteed |
| Compatible with many battery brands | Battery reserve is locked (can’t be adjusted) |
Best for: People who are okay with changing energy providers and want steady payments plus the chance for higher earnings through automated trading.
Redback Smart VPP
The Redback Smart VPP is designed specifically for households that already own a Redback battery system. Unlike many other VPPs, it charges no monthly fees and doesn’t require you to switch electricity providers. You still retain control over your battery settings via the Redback app, and during VPP events (like high grid demand), you can earn export credits—although exact payouts aren’t publicly disclosed.
While it lacks the flashiest incentives or guaranteed payments, it’s one of the few fee-free, flexible VPPs available for homeowners who want something simple and no-strings-attached.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No monthly VPP fees | Only works with Redback batteries |
| Keep your current electricity provider | Export earnings are not publicly listed |
| You retain battery control via Redback app | No sign-up bonuses or upfront financial incentives |
| Easy to join if you already have Redback | Less transparency compared to other VPPs |
Best for: Homeowners who already have a Redback battery system and want to earn extra without switching energy plans or paying monthly fees. It’s a good pick for those who value simplicity and flexibility over complex incentive programs.
ShineHub VPP
A 5-year VPP with up to $2,000 off a new battery. No need to change electricity retailers. ShineHub manages your battery during peak events and pays for energy exported (typically ~$0.55–$0.65/kWh). Early exit fees apply if you leave before the term ends.
Fast facts:
- Battery compatibility: AlphaESS, Sungrow, GoodWe, Sigenergy
- Retailer lock-in: No – keep your current provider
- Contract term: 5 years (with clawback if you exit early)
- Main incentive: Up to $2,000 battery discount + event-based export payments
Control: ShineHub remotely dispatches battery during grid events.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Up to $2,000 off a new battery | 5-year contract (early exit fees apply) |
| High export payment (~$0.55–$0.65/kWh) | Must use ShineHub batteries and system |
| You can stay with your current retailer | Battery control is managed by ShineHub |
| App lets you track usage and events | Not ideal if you might move house soon |
Best for: Homeowners looking for an affordable battery install and plan to stay put.
Origin Loop VPP
A straightforward VPP for Origin electricity customers using a compatible battery. Join the Loop program and earn up to $1.00 per kWh for discharging your stored solar power into the grid during peak demand events. There’s no contract lock-in, and you’re eligible for a $200 sign-up bonus.
Note: Origin remotely discharges stored battery energy during high-demand events, paying $1.00/kWh (capped at 200 kWh annually). You’re credited this amount on your electricity bill and still receive standard FiTs for any additional exports.
Fast facts:
- Battery compatibility: Tesla Powerwall, Sungrow, LG Chem, and AlphaESS
- Retailer lock-in: Yes (must be on an Origin electricity plan)
- Contract term: None for BYO option; 5 years if you buy through Origin
- Export cap: 200 kWh per year
- Reserve setting: Origin always leaves at least 20% for Powerwall owners
- Feed-in tariff: Your regular solar FiT still applies outside those events
- Exit flexibility: BYO customers can leave with 20 days’ notice
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| $1.00/kWh export rate during peak events | Must switch to an Origin electricity plan |
| $200 sign-up bonus | Limited to 200kWh/year (earning cap) |
| No contract if you bring your own battery | Only a few payment events per year |
| Keep your existing battery setup | Fixed reserve (you can’t set blackout backup size) |
Best for: Origin customers with compatible batteries who want a hassle-free entry.
Other Virtual Power Plant (VPP) Providers in Australia
Not every homeowner will find a perfect fit in the top 5 VPPs. Fortunately, there are several other credible Virtual Power Plant providers in Australia offering different levels of flexibility, rewards, and battery compatibility. Below we review the most prominent options.
| VPP Provider (hyperlinked) | Retailer Lock-In | Contract Term | Battery Control | Main Financial Benefit | Key Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diamond Energy WATTBANK | Varies by retailer | Typically no lock-in | User-controlled app | ~30¢/kWh off-peak credits; support for community battery projects | Moderate earnings; availability depends on network coverage |
| Engie BYO Battery VPP | Yes (Engie electricity plan) | Ongoing; cancel anytime | Managed by Engie | $300 upfront rebate + ~$20/month credit | Engie account required; modest recurring benefit |
| Globird ZEROHERO VPP | No (availability varies) | None | Varies by partner/integration | $1/day credit + free midday charging + critical-day export credits | Limited to select regions and inverter partners |
| Reposit “No Bill” VPP | No | None | Controlled by the user via app | Smart energy trading and optional blackout backup | Earnings vary; requires active management |
| Evergen VPP Solutions | No | Varies (partner-dependent) | Partner or homeowner controlled | Trading optimisation tools & energy savings via solar integration | Offerings differ by installer/partner; less transparency |
| SonnenFlat VPP | Yes (Sonnen battery required) | 2–5 years | Full homeowner control | Flat-rate energy bill within usage limits | Only for Sonnen buyers; usage caps apply |
| SolarHub VPP (pilot/retailer VPP) | Possibly yes (through Clean Power retailers) | Varies | Managed or installer-controlled | Custom VPP bundle with solar + battery + VPP services | Limited rollout; often tied to Clean Power installation only |
What to Look For When Choosing a VPP
| Factor | Why It Matters |
| Battery Compatibility | Not all systems are accepted—check brand and inverter support. |
| Retailer Lock-In | Some VPPs make you switch electricity providers. |
| Contract Terms | Ranges from no-lock-in to 7 years. Check for clawbacks and exit fees. |
| Battery Reserve Settings | Affects blackout protection. Look for VPPs that let you set a minimum reserve. |
| Export Credits / Payouts | Some pay per event (e.g. $/kWh); others offer flat monthly credits. |
| Transparency & App Monitoring | Real-time dashboards and event logs let you track how your battery is used. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Focusing only on upfront discounts: These can be outweighed by better long-term payouts.
- Skipping the fine print: Some VPPs charge exit fees or limit reserve capacity.
- Assuming all VPPs are the same: Payment models, reserve settings, and retailer requirements vary widely.
- Overlooking wear and tear: Extra cycling can impact battery lifespan—check warranty terms.
- Joining without checking compatibility: Your battery and inverter must be on the approved list.
- Expecting blackout protection by default: Not all VPPs guarantee it. Look for reserve settings or blackout-ready features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Amber’s SmartShift program offers the highest potential payouts, with wholesale spot prices reaching up to $19/kWh during major grid events. However, this isn’t guaranteed—it depends on real-time energy prices and active participation.
Discover Energy and Origin Loop offer more predictable payouts, typically ranging from $300–$800/year, depending on usage
Yes—many VPPs allow you to join with a compatible battery. Supported brands commonly include Tesla Powerwall, AlphaESS, Sungrow, GoodWe, SolarEdge, LG Chem, and Sigenergy.
It depends:
– No switch required: Amber, ShineHub, Reposit, Redback
– Switch required: Origin Loop, Discover Energy, AGL, Tesla Energy Plan
If keeping your current retailer is important, choose a retailer-agnostic VPP. Always check the VPP’s approved hardware list or ask your installer.
Yes, but only with certain programs. Look for VPPs that allow you to set a minimum battery reserve, usually 10–20%, which ensures stored energy is available in case of a grid outage.
They can be—especially if:
You already have a solar battery
You’re eligible for state or federal battery rebates
You want to maximise ROI or reduce your payback period
A well-matched VPP can offer annual earnings of $200–$1,000+, on top of feed-in tariffs and other bill savings.
Check the battery and inverter brand/model in your system against the VPP provider’s compatibility list. You can also use our battery comparison guide or speak with your installer
Yes, but read the fine print first:
Some VPPs (like ShineHub) have 5-year lock-in contracts with early exit fees.
Others (like Amber, Redback, and Discover) have no fixed term and allow you to leave anytime.
Note: Be sure to check for clawbacks, cooling-off periods, and battery ownership conditions before signing.
