[TrevorW]

In the US many energy providers do a 1:1 rebate and don't require you to have a smart meter installed, electro mechanical meters that run in reverse when more power than consumed is produced, suffice.

In England when electricity production was privatised electro mechanical meters where banned and smart meters became mandatory. The REBS scheme in the UK was slammed in Partliament as a fiasco.

With the introduction of the REBS scheme in Australia when rebates were being offered higher than retail electricity prices Smart meters are a necessity for you to receive those rebates.

Under the Federal Govt renewable energy buyback scheme how like in WA can Qld power consider that 8c is fair and reasonable and still try and force (which I don't think they can legally do) a smart meter onto users and charge you for it. A debate I'm presently having with the Minister and Synergy in WA at the moment.

It's just another indication how FUPD the REBS system is, how Govt's have no idea what they are doing when they involve themself in these schemes to bolster industry and the economy.

If you have a look at the Energy Matters site check out the disparity in schemes across Australia.

Now isn't it typical the Federal Govt introduces the carbon tax then reduces the subsidies for PV systems.

The only way for the PV industry to survive is for Federal/State Govt/Energy suppliers to renegotiate existing rebate schemes so that everyone is treated fair and equitably. Without this and more realistic pricing of PV systems, then the industry will die IMO.

A country with more sunlight hours than most other in the world and with a Govt sprouting the virture of a Carbon tax to reduce Co2 emissions, we should be a the forefront of renewable energy but we are not.

The only way to change this is at the poll, but I'm stumped as to whom to choose as the lesser evil.