Solar Facts
Hybrid Solar Group.
Understanding On-Grid, Off-Grid & Hybrid Solar in NSW and WA”
System Type NSW
On-Grid (Grid-Tied)
Off-Grid (Standalone)
Hybrid
How it works:
• Panels generate electricity, converted by inverter for household use
• Surplus exported to grid, may earn feed-in credits
Advantages:
• Affordable & minimal maintenance
• Access to grid when solar is low
• Eligible for NSW rebates/feed-in tariffs
Limitations:
• Does not operate during grid outage
• Possible export charges (e.g., 1.2c/kWh between 10am–3pm)
How it works:
• Independent of grid
• Solar charges battery bank, often with backup generator
Advantages:
• Full energy self-sufficiency
• Ideal for rural/remote locations
• Immune to grid faults/outages
Limitations:
• Higher installation cost (batteries/generator)
• Ongoing maintenance required
How it works:
• Combines grid connection with battery storage
• Surplus stored for later use, grid used when needed
Advantages:
• Grid security plus blackout backup
• Reduces peak-time electricity purchases
Limitations:
• Higher upfront cost (batteries/inverters)
• Batteries require servicing/replacement
• Location & Grid Stability: Inner-city/suburbs = on-grid or hybrid; rural = off-grid
• Budget & Investment: On-grid = affordable entry; hybrid = balance cost/resilience; off-grid = higher upfront but full independence
• Energy Autonomy: Off-grid = full self-reliance; hybrid = partial independence; on-grid = reliant on utility
System Type WA
On-Grid (Grid-Tied)
Off-Grid (Standalone)
Hybrid
How it works:
• Panels generate electricity, converted by inverter
• Surplus may be exported to grid, may earn feed-in credits
Advantages:
• Cost-effective & simple installation
• Continuous access to grid
• Eligible for WA solar incentives
Limitations:
• Does not operate during grid outage
• Export limits may apply (e.g., Horizon Power regions)
How it works:
• Independent of grid
• Solar charges battery bank, often with backup generator
Advantages:
• Full energy independence
• Immune to grid faults/outages
Limitations:
• Higher installation cost (batteries/generator)
• Ongoing maintenance required
How it works:
• Combines grid connection with battery storage
• Surplus stored for later use, grid used when needed
Advantages:
• Grid security plus backup
• Maximises solar use
Limitations:
• Higher upfront cost (batteries/inverters)
• Batteries require servicing/replacement
• Location & Grid Stability: Urban homes = on-grid or hybrid; remote = off-grid
• Budget & Investment: On-grid = affordable; hybrid = balance cost/resilience; off-grid = higher upfront but full independence
• Energy Autonomy: Off-grid = full self-reliance; hybrid = partial independence; on-grid = reliant on utility
Battery Rebates & Rules: NSW & WA (2025)
Battery incentives and export rules vary between states. Here’s a clear side-by-side comparison so you can see what applies to your home.
New South Wales (NSW)
-
Regulators: Ausgrid, Endeavour Energy, Essential Energy
-
Incentives: Federal Cheaper Home Batteries program plus NSW Virtual Power Plant (VPP) offers
-
Export Rules: Commonly 5 kW per phase, with new Dynamic Operating Envelopes (DOE) and Emergency Backstop controls being introduced
-
Best For: Suburban households looking to add batteries for bill savings and potential VPP income
-
Batteries: Optional for on-grid systems, recommended for hybrid setups, and essential for off-grid
Western Australia (WA)
-
Regulators: Western Power (South West Interconnected System) and Horizon Power (regional and remote areas)
-
Incentives: WA Battery Scheme – up to $7,500 rebate plus a $10,000 no-interest loan (VPP participation required)
-
Export Rules: Strict limits apply; in many cases exports are capped at 1.5 kW unless connected to a VPP
-
Best For: Perth and regional households making use of rebates; fully off-grid systems in Horizon Power zones
-
Batteries: Optional for on-grid, strongly supported for hybrid systems, and essential for off-grid
Applies in Both NSW & WA
-
Must use Clean Energy Council (CEC) approved batteries and accredited installers
-
Must comply with AS/NZS 4777.1:2024 inverter and DER standards
-
Important to check warranties, fire-safe siting, and recycling or disposal programs
Ready to maximise your solar savings?
See how the right battery setup can reduce your bills and future-proof your home.
Contact Us
Hybrid Solar Group.