Synergy Tariff
DEBS Explained
Understanding Synergy's Distributed Energy Buyback Scheme and how it affects battery economics in Perth
Last updated: 15 January 2025
What is DEBS?
DEBS (Distributed Energy Buyback Scheme) is Synergy's feed-in tariff for solar and battery exports. It pays different rates depending on when you export power to the grid.
Peak Export (3-9pm)
10c/kWh
Higher rate during evening peak when grid needs power most
Off-Peak Export
2c/kWh
Lower rate during daytime and overnight when solar is abundant
Why DEBS Matters for Batteries
DEBS creates a strong financial incentive to store your solar energy during the day and export it during the 3-9pm peak window when you'll get 10c/kWh instead of 2c/kWh.
Example: 10 kWh Daily Export
Without Battery (daytime export):
10 kWh × 2c = 20c per day = $73/year
With Battery (evening export):
10 kWh × 10c = $1.00 per day = $365/year
Extra value: $292/year
Optimizing for DEBS
- • Charge during the day: Store excess solar when export is only 2c/kWh
- • Discharge 3-9pm: Use or export stored energy during peak rate window
- • Size appropriately: Match battery capacity to your evening usage + export potential
- • Consider VPPs: Some VPP programs optimize DEBS timing automatically