New tariffs for EVs, batteries, and flexible loads
As more households add EVs, batteries, and smart appliances, new tariff structures are emerging that reward flexibility. They're not mainstream yet — but they're growing fast.
EV-specific tariffs
Some retailers now offer tariffs designed specifically for EV owners, with deeply discounted overnight charging rates. The idea is simple: your EV is a huge, flexible load that doesn’t care when it charges — so charging it during the cheapest grid hours benefits both you and the network.
Dedicated EV circuit rate
A separately metered EV charger (like a controlled load) with a very low overnight rate — sometimes as low as 8–12c/kWh. Requires a second meter or smart meter sub-circuit.
Super off-peak window
A TOU-style plan with an extra-cheap “super off-peak” window (e.g. 12am–6am) designed for EV charging. No separate meter needed — just set your charger timer.
At 10c/kWh, charging a typical EV (15 kWh per 100km) costs just $1.50 per 100km — compared to ~$15–20 for petrol. Even at standard off-peak rates (~18c/kWh), the savings are substantial.
Two-way tariffs for batteries
Two-way tariffs recognise that batteries can export stored energy back to the grid during peak demand — helping stabilise the network when it needs it most. In return, battery exports during peak windows earn a higher rate than standard solar feed-in tariffs.
How it works
This is closely related to Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) — programs where an aggregator coordinates thousands of home batteries to act as a collective power station, dispatching stored energy during peak demand and sharing the revenue with battery owners.
Wholesale pass-through tariffs
Companies like Amber Electric and Localvolts offer tariffs where you pay the actual NEM wholesale spot price (updated every 30 minutes or 5 minutes) plus a fixed monthly margin. This means:
When spot is low or negative
Midday with solar flooding the grid — you might pay 0–5c/kWh, or even get paid to consume. Great for running heavy loads during solar surplus.
When spot spikes
Evening peak or extreme heat events — spot prices can hit $1–15/kWh temporarily. You need to be able to reduce usage quickly or have a battery to avoid the spike.
Not for everyone
Who these tariffs suit
- EV tariffs — any EV owner who can charge overnight. The savings are significant even without solar.
- Two-way / VPP tariffs — battery owners willing to let their battery be dispatched during peak events. Best if you have solar + battery + TOU tariff.
- Wholesale pass-through — tech-savvy households with batteries, smart home automation, and a willingness to shift loads around spot prices. Not recommended as a first tariff — try TOU first.
These tariff types are still evolving. Check what’s available in your state and from your retailer — availability varies significantly. Use the Which Tariff? guide to figure out where to start.