Solar & Battery Owners: Leading the Great Energy Switch of 2026
In 2026, the data is clear: households that invest in energy independence are no longer “setting and forgetting” their electricity plans. According to the latest research from Roy Morgan, owners of new solar and battery systems are significantly more likely to dump their current energy providers compared to the average Australian household.
At 70ways, we’ve seen this trend accelerate as homeowners move to protect their investments against fluctuating tariffs and new 2026 regulations.
Are Solar & Battery Owners More Likely to Switch?
Yes. The numbers tell a compelling story of active engagement:
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31% of new solar owners switched or plan to switch in the next 12 months (vs. 25% of the general population).
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33% of those with combined solar and battery storage are leading the charge by switching to better deals.
The 2026 “Switching Gap”
Recent analysis shows that 20% of households that acquired solar in the last year also changed retailers—a rate 4% higher than the national average. For those with 70ways recommended solar-plus-battery setups, that switching rate jumps to 6% higher than the average.
Why Is the Switch Happening Now?
Roy Morgan CEO Michele Levine notes that in the current 2026 economic climate, decreasing feed-in tariffs (FiTs) are a major driver. Households aren’t just worried about high prices; they are fighting to maintain a return on investment (ROI).
With the Federal Government’s “Cheaper Home Batteries Program”—which reached full speed in early 2026—more Australians are installing storage. This uptake is driving people to review their plans or even consider going entirely off-grid.
70ways Advice: Don’t Get Ripped Off by Your Retailer
While feed-in tariffs are a big part of the conversation, 70ways reminds our clients that the “best” deal involves more than just an export rate. You must also consider:
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Daily Connection Charges: High supply fees can quickly wipe out solar savings.
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Time-of-Use Rates: Peak, off-peak, and shoulder rates are critical for battery management.
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The “Loyalty Penalty”: The ACCC has warned that staying on the same plan for over three years can cost you an average of $221 extra per year.
Special Incentives for Battery Owners
In 2026, retailers are getting aggressive. Many are now offering higher evening feed-in tariffs specifically to encourage battery owners to export stored energy during peak grid stress. 70ways helps customers identify these plans to ensure their battery is “working” for them when the payouts are highest.
New Protections for 2026
New rules implemented recently aim to shield consumers from “price shocks.” If your plan’s benefits expire, your provider is now legally required to ensure you don’t pay more than the standing/default offer price.