What is the Distributed Energy Buyback Scheme (DEBS)?
The Distributed Energy Buyback Scheme (DEBS) is Western Australia's feed-in tariff framework that compensates solar export customers at time-of-day rates set by Synergy and Horizon Power, replacing the earlier REBS arrangement.
Western Australia's Distributed Energy Buyback Scheme sets the terms under which households and small businesses receive payment for exporting surplus solar power back to the grid. DEBS replaced the earlier Renewable Energy Buyback Scheme (REBS) and is managed through the state's two major electricity retailers, Synergy (serving the South West Interconnected System) and Horizon Power (covering regional areas).
Under DEBS, export credits vary by time of day, meaning the rate paid for power exported during peak demand periods differs from off-peak rates. This structure encourages solar owners to time their consumption strategically and reflects the actual value of electricity to the grid at different times. The scheme applies to residential and small commercial solar installations connected to these retailer networks.
For solar equipment suppliers in the Perth Metropolitan area, understanding DEBS is essential when advising customers on system sizing and battery storage integration. The time-of-day export rates directly affect the financial return customers can expect, which influences investment decisions and system design choices. Retailers publish their current DEBS rates regularly, and these rates are a key factor in solar payback calculations.
Customers wanting detailed guidance on how DEBS rates apply to their specific situation often consult government rebate specialists who track policy changes and optimise export strategies.