What is a virtual power plant?

A virtual power plant (VPP) is a network of distributed energy resources – such as residential solar and battery systems – that all work together as a single power plant.

The solar and battery systems can be located across many neighborhoods and centrally controlled using WiFi technology and sophisticated software to charge or dispatch energy from the batteries.

Benefits of Powerwall solar Tesla Energy On Virtual Power Plant.

Be part of the Tesla Energy Plan, you’ll receive $220 (incl GST) in grid support bill credits1, a generous Feed-in Tariff, and flexible Time of Use rates, to help you make the most of energy when it’s cheaper, all while driving the cost of your energy bill down.

When connected to the Tesla Energy Plan, Tesla’s world-leading software will monitor and manage the performance of your Powerwall to deliver the most benefits to you with the added certainty of knowing we’ll only cycle your battery up to 50 discharge cycles a year2.

More  benefits

Save on bills.

Take advantage of flexible and competitive peak, off-peak and solar sponge rates with our Time of Use Tariffs, annual VPP credits, and competitive feed-in tariffs.

Return on investment.

The Tesla Energy Plan helps to reduce your estimated payback period to under 9 years3 and grid support credits and competitive feed-in tariffs.

Protect Your Home

Powerwall will continue to power your home 24/7 even during blackouts, with up to 20% backup reserve.

Monitor Your Energy from Anywhere

Seamlessly monitor your Powerwall and solar panels anytime, anywhere with the Tesla app.

Tips for households

While the concept of joining a VPP is still somewhat new, VPPs are quickly gaining momentum as households look to take advantage of the financial incentives they offer.

When researching a VPP, you might like to consider:

  • What do you know about the VPP operator and electricity retailer (if it is not the same company)?
  • Which batteries can be enrolled in the VPP?
  • How much does the system cost (including installation and new solar panels if needed)?

  • How will you be rewarded for participating in the VPP (ie. annual, monthly or daily reward payments, a discounted battery, an exclusive retail offer)?
  • What electricity plan will you be on and how does the usage charge and daily supply charge and Feed in Tariff (FIT) compare to other retail offers in the market?
  • How much of the battery can you reserve for back up protection?
  • Is there a contract term and/or early termination fee?

In South Australia, there are several VPPs in the market using batteries which are eligible for the Home Battery Scheme subsidy of up to $6,000.

A summary of the VPPs in South Australia is listed below.