Active TAS VPP programs
Aurora Energy Battery Bonus
Aurora Energy's retail product for battery owners. Combines a capped flat retail rate with optional VPP enrolment. Functions more like a sign-up bonus than a per-event payment programme.
Notes specific to Tasmania
Tasmania's hydropower-backed grid is more stable than the mainland, so commercial VPP economics are weaker. The state's flat 8.93 c/kWh FIT remains the dominant earning mechanism for solar households.
How VPP economics work in TAS
VPP earnings depend on two state-specific factors: wholesale electricity price volatility, and grid stress frequency. Tasmania's hydropower-dominated grid is more stable than mainland Australia. Peak-demand events are less frequent. VPP returns are modest, but the state's flat regulated FIT (8.93c/kWh) is competitive with VPP-only earnings in many other states.
Should you enrol in a TAS 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 TAS 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 Tasmania?
TAS currently has 1 active residential VPP program: Aurora Energy Battery Bonus (Aurora Energy). Each has different payment models and battery brand compatibility — check the details below.
How much can I earn from a VPP in Tasmania?
TAS VPP returns are lower than the eastern states because the grid is more stable and wholesale volatility is lower. Typical earnings: $150-$400 per year for participating households.
Do I need to switch retailers to join a VPP in TAS?
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 TAS 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.