Amber Electric – Wholesale Energy Trading
Amber Electric – Wholesale Energy Trading
Amber Electric operates differently from traditional electricity retailers.
Rather than offering a fixed free charging window, Amber gives customers access to wholesale electricity prices.
For households with compatible batteries, Amber's SmartShift™ technology can automatically manage battery charging and exporting based on wholesale electricity prices.
Important Note – Energy Plan Sign-Up
While Sapphire Solar is happy to provide general guidance on battery-friendly energy plans, we are not able to sign customers up to an energy retailer or switch your electricity account on your behalf.
If you decide to change energy providers, you will need to complete the sign-up directly with your chosen retailer. Energy plans, rates, eligibility requirements and promotional offers can change, so we always recommend checking the retailer's current terms and rates for your address before signing up.
How It Works
Benefits
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Access to wholesale electricity pricing.
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SmartShift™ battery automation for compatible systems.
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Potential to charge when wholesale electricity is very cheap or negative.
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Potential to export battery energy when wholesale prices are high.
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Amber's current subscription is $25 per month.
Unlike a fixed free-energy plan, electricity prices through Amber can vary considerably. This creates opportunities for battery owners but also means it is important to understand how wholesale pricing works.
Useful Guides
Amber Set-up guide for FoxESS users
Amber Electric podcast – How Amber works with your battery
Watch: Amber for Batteries App Walkthrough
Video: "Amber for Batteries App Walkthrough" by Amber Electric (watch on YouTube).
Who It Suits
A more dynamic option for customers comfortable with wholesale electricity pricing and automated battery trading.
A Note on Amber
Amber has delivered some exciting results for battery owners, particularly customers who are comfortable participating in the wholesale electricity market.
However, it is a more dynamic electricity model than a simple free daytime plan. Wholesale prices can move significantly and results will vary depending on your household usage, battery, solar production and market conditions.
We recommend understanding how wholesale pricing and SmartShift work before deciding whether Amber is right for you.
Eligibility & Getting Started
Sign up directly with Amber.
Download the Amber app for iOS or Android.
Add your compatible battery through the Devices section.
Follow Amber's in-app instructions to complete the connection.
You may be asked for information including:
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Your battery serial number
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Your site's export limit
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Battery and inverter details
Where asked how you heard about Amber, you can nominate Sapphire Solar.
Need assistance with your Amber account or SmartShift? Contact Amber Support directly.
Plan details details last reviewed by Sapphire Solar. Always confirm current rates and terms for your address with the retailer: Amber Electric.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my battery compatible with SmartShift?
SmartShift works with compatible systems. FoxESS owners can follow Amber's FoxESS set-up guide above; check other brands with Amber.
Can prices go up as well as down?
Yes. Wholesale prices can move significantly, so results vary.
How Sapphire Solar Can Help
Once your battery is installed, Sapphire Solar can provide general guidance on configuring your system around your chosen electricity plan, including charge and discharge scheduling in your battery app.
Retailers are responsible for their own plans, billing, eligibility, rates, credits and VPP programs. You will need to sign up directly with your chosen retailer.
Thinking About a Battery?
If you don't have a battery yet, or want to know whether a bigger battery would suit this plan, request a free quote or call Sapphire Solar on 1300 308 751.
