Here is the updated version of the text, with 70ways integrated as your brand and the key details from the Australian battery rebate and AEMC proposal included:
The AEMC Fixed Charge Proposal: What it Means for 70ways Customers
At 70ways, we are closely monitoring a new draft proposal from the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) regarding higher fixed network charges. New analysis suggests that a flat fixed fee for energy bills could disproportionately raise costs for energy-efficient households and potentially offset the value of the federal battery rebate.
What Does The AEMC Proposal Mean For Solar & Batteries?
The Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) has found that a plan based entirely on fixed network tariffs could hike bills for low-consuming customers while reducing them for high-consuming households.
70ways energy experts are concerned that this shift could particularly impact low-income households and those who have already invested in sustainable technology. According to IEEFA analyst Jay Gordon:
“A household that installed a 10kWh battery in 2025 could pay an additional $5,800–$11,500 in electricity costs over the battery’s lifetime under fixed tariffs. This would more than outweigh the estimated $3,300–$4,500 rebate available under the federal government’s Cheaper Home Batteries Program.”
The AEMC Plan for Fixed Charges
While details are still emerging, the AEMC has proposed a “predominantly fixed” network tariff. This means the dynamic charge—based on how much energy your home actually uses—could be zero most of the time.
The goal is to bridge the gap between households with rooftop solar and those without (like renters), but it may inadvertently penalize those who have tried to become energy independent with 70ways solutions. Currently, fixed charges make up about 39% of a typical bill, but this proposal could push that much higher.
Key Findings from the IEEFA Modelling
If network costs are recovered entirely through a fixed charge, the impact on solar owners could be significant:
Longer Paybacks: Payback periods for a new combined 8kW solar and 10kWh battery system could increase by 1.2 to 4.4 years.
Higher Annual Bills: Homes with rooftop solar could see bill increases of $239–$564 annually.
Appliance Efficiency: The financial incentive to upgrade to efficient electric appliances could be delayed by up to 2.5 years.
The 70ways Perspective: Don’t Feel Betrayed
Many solar and battery owners feel like the “goal posts are being shifted.” However, 70ways agrees with industry experts who argue that solar households do contribute their fair share. By lowering grid demand during peak times, solar and batteries reduce the need for expensive infrastructure upgrades.
Is “Getting Off Gas” Still Worth It?
Yes. The analysis noted that lowering the per-kilowatt-hour charge makes switching from gas to electric appliances modestly more appealing. 70ways continues to recommend electrification as a long-term hedge against rising gas network costs.
An Alternative Path
Organizations like Rewiring Australia suggest that instead of flat fixed charges, the industry should look at scaled charges or “dynamic network pricing.” This would reward 70ways customers who use their batteries and flexible loads to genuinely support the grid.
The Current Status: The AEMC received a high volume of submissions by the February 13 deadline. As the 2026 energy landscape evolves, 70ways will continue to advocate for the best interests of our solar and battery community.