Active QLD VPP programs
Energex PeakSmart / GridReady
Energex's network-led demand response programme — your battery (or smart hot-water/air-con) is dispatched during grid stress events. Lower per-kWh return than retail VPPs but no retail switching required.
Origin Loop VPP
Origin's national VPP, available to QLD customers. Particularly popular in south-east QLD where Origin has strong retail share.
AGL Virtual Power Plant
AGL's VPP, available to QLD residential customers. Compatible with most major battery brands.
Notes specific to Queensland
Regional QLD (Ergon network) has fewer retail VPP options because of Ergon's regulated retail monopoly, but Ergon does run its own dispatch programme for battery owners.
How VPP economics work in QLD
VPP earnings depend on two state-specific factors: wholesale electricity price volatility, and grid stress frequency. QLD has moderate wholesale volatility, so VPP earnings sit between the highly-volatile SA market and the more stable TAS market.
Should you enrol in a QLD VPP?
Two questions help decide:
- Is your battery 10 kWh or larger? Smaller batteries don't generate enough dispatchable capacity for VPP economics to make sense.
- Are you home in the evening (5pm–9pm)? If you discharge the battery yourself during peak hours anyway, VPP enrolment displaces that discharge to grid export — net economically positive only if the per-event payment beats the difference between your import and feed-in rates.
For most QLD households with a 10–13.5 kWh battery and average evening usage, VPP enrolment adds $300–$900/yr to total solar income. We'll model the exact number for your address when we get in touch.
Common questions
What VPP programs are available in Queensland?
QLD currently has 3 active residential VPP programs: Energex PeakSmart / GridReady (Energex (regulated)), Origin Loop VPP (Origin Energy), AGL Virtual Power Plant (AGL). Each has different payment models and battery brand compatibility — check the details below.
How much can I earn from a VPP in Queensland?
In QLD, typical residential VPP earnings sit between $300 and $900 per year, depending on programme and battery size. Households on wholesale-pegged plans (like Amber) can earn more — sometimes $1,500+ — but with variable monthly returns.
Do I need to switch retailers to join a VPP in QLD?
Sometimes. Retailer-led VPPs (AGL, Origin, Powershop) require you to be on their retail plan. Operator-led programs (Tesla, Reposit, Amber, sonnen) operate alongside or as their own retail backend. We'll flag the trade-off when we get in touch.
Does QLD require VPP enrolment for the federal battery rebate?
No. The federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program requires your battery to be VPP-capable — meaning it can support enrolment — but actual enrolment is optional. You can claim the rebate and never join a VPP.