This blog post was accurate at the time of publishing. However, programs, policies and rebates may have changed since then. We recommend checking our website or contacting us directly for the most current information on 1300 430 917.

If you live in South Australia, you may have already heard of the Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme (REPS). But with changes coming in 2026, many people are asking: what exactly is REPS, why does it matter and why do the rebates sometimes “run out” before the year is over?
Let’s break it down in simple terms.

What is REPS?
REPS is a South Australian Government program designed to help homes and businesses save energy and reduce their bills. Instead of the government handing out rebates directly, it requires energy retailers like AGL and Origin to provide energy-saving services to their customers. These retailers work with accredited service providers, such as MAC Trade Services, to deliver the upgrades in homes and businesses across the state. To cover their costs to deliver these upgrades the retailers add a small amount to their customers electricity bills, on average, a couple dollars a quarter.

Through REPS, customers can access discounted upgrades or cash back incentives that make their properties more energy efficient. These activities might include:
• Installing energy-efficient appliances
• Installing heating and cooling systems
• Upgrading your hot water system
• Connecting your battery or EV charger to a VPP

In return, the government issues “certificates” that prove the work has been done. The value of those certificates helps reduce the cost for the customer. Because you’re already contributing towards REPS through every electricity bill you pay, it makes sense to take advantage of the benefits.

Why is the Government changing REPS in 2026?
The energy landscape is changing quickly. With more households installing solar, batteries, and smart appliances, the government wants REPS to keep pace. REPS 2, which begins in 2026, will:
• Continue to prioritise support for households that need it most
• Aim to deliver greater energy savings across the community
• Strengthen the state’s progress toward a cleaner and more reliable grid

In short, REPS 2 is about building on the success of REPS 1, while modernising the program so it continues to deliver benefits for customers and the environment.

Why do rebates sometimes run out early?
One question we hear often is why customers sometimes miss out on rebates before the end of the year. T To help explain how this works:
• Each year, energy companies and service providers have a set target of energy savings they need to deliver. These targets are set by the Government.
• Once those targets are met and the certificates are created, there are no more discounts or rebates available until the following year.
• If demand is high, for example if lots of people upgrade their homes or businesses in the same year, then the pool of rebates can be used up sooner than expected.
This doesn’t mean the program has ended, but it does mean customers who wait too long or do energy efficient upgrades towards the end of the year may miss out until the next year’s allocation becomes available.

What this means for you
• If you’re thinking about upgrading to more energy-efficient products or taking advantage of REPS rebates, it’s best to act earlier in the year.
• Be aware that offers and rebates may change from one year to the next, especially as we transition to REPS 2 in 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions about REPS
How do I know if I’m eligible?
Most South Australians are eligible for REPS activities, provided the activity has not been done at your property before, but the type of rebate or discount you can access depends on your home, your energy use and whether you hold a concession card. MAC Trade Services are here to help you and are able to confirm your eligibility.

What if I have a concession card or am a renter?
Concession card holders and renters who pay less than $500 a week are considered Priority Group Households and may be eligible for larger rebates.

Priority Group Households are those where a person holds one of the following current concession cards or meets one of these conditions:
• Pension Concession Card
• Health Care Card (including low-income health care card)
• TPI or War Widows Gold Repatriation Health Card
• Gold Repatriation Health Card (EDA)
• Renting a property for less than $500 per week
• Actively participating in an energy retailer hardship program, energy concession program, or payment plan
• Receiving the South Australian Government Energy Concession
• Referred by a registered member of the South Australian Financial Counsellors Association (SAFCA)

Do I have to apply through the government?
No, REPS works through accredited providers like MAC Trade Services. We handle the certificates and discounts on your behalf, so you simply pay a reduced price or receive a cash rebate.

Who can I talk to about REPS?
At MAC Trade Services, our goal is to make energy efficiency simple and accessible for everyone, especially concession card holders, people living with disability, and households facing hardship. If you’re unsure whether you qualify or just want some friendly guidance, our team is here to help you make the most of the support available.

You can fill in our online query form and we’ll contact you, reach us by phone or email, or even drop into our Adelaide head office anytime for face-to-face advice and assistance.

• 1300 430 917
• www.mactradeservices.com.au
• customerservice@mactradeservices.com.au
• Level 1/134 Fullarton Rd, Rose Park SA 5067