Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme (REPS)

The Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme (REPS) is a South Australian Government initiative designed to help households and businesses reduce energy use and lower power bills, while supporting a smarter, more sustainable energy system. It is administered by the Essential Services Commission of South Australia (ESCOSA).

What’s the goal of REPS?

REPS aims to:

Improve energy efficiency across homes and businesses
Lower greenhouse gas emissions
Support low-income households with targeted assistance
Encourage smarter energy use through demand management and energy-saving technologies

Who can access REPS?

REPS is available to:

All South Australian households and businesses
You don’t need to be a customer of a specific energy retailer to participate
Priority group households (e.g. low-income or vulnerable customers) may be eligible for additional support

How does it work?

Energy retailers with large customer bases (in South Australia) are required to meet annual energy productivity targets
These targets are achieved by delivering approved energy-saving activities, such as:

Installing energy-efficient lighting or appliances
Upgrading hot water systems
Improving insulation or heating/cooling systems

Retailers often partner with accredited third-party providers to deliver these services
Many activities are free or heavily discounted

REPS is all about:

Cutting your power bills by improving how your business uses energy
Supporting upgrades that help reduce carbon emissions
Making energy efficiency more accessible and affordable
Empowering you to make smart energy choices without a huge upfront cost

As a customer accessing REPs, what should I expect?

Providers and technicians must show ID and give you a written statement after completing any REPS activity
You’ll receive clear information about what was done at your premises and how it helps reduce energy use
If you’ve already received a specific item (like a showerhead) at your address, you may not be eligible for the same item again

REPS for Small Businesses

REPS is designed to help Businesses by:

Cutting your power bills by improving how your business uses energy
Supporting upgrades that help reduce carbon emissions
Making energy efficiency more accessible and affordable
Empowering businesses to make smart energy choices without a huge upfront cost

Who can take part?

Any small business in South Australia can access REPS services
You don’t need to be with a specific energy retailer
Services are often free or heavily subsidised to make upgrades easier

Common REPS Activities

For Small Businesses & Commercial Premises

Commercial lighting upgrades (e.g. replacing fluorescent tubes with LEDs)
High-efficiency refrigerated display cabinets
Demand management projects for large facilities
NABERS-rated building improvements (energy performance upgrades)

For Households & Small Energy Users

Ceiling insulation (new or top-up)
Building sealing (draught-proofing, secondary glazing)
Heating & cooling upgrades (e.g. reverse-cycle air conditioners)
Hot water system upgrades (e.g. heat pumps, efficient showerheads)
LED lighting installations (general and downlights)
Standby power controllers (for AV or IT equipment)
High-efficiency appliances (fridges, freezers, dryers)
Pool pump upgrades or connection to demand response
Electric vehicle charger integration with demand response
Battery connection to a virtual power plant (VPP)
Switching to time-of-use electricity tariffs

Each activity has specific eligibility criteria and technical requirements. You can find the full, detailed list—including technical specs and activity codes—on the ESCOSA REPS Activities page.

Your Rights Under REPS

Under South Australia’s Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme (REPS), consumers are protected by a set of rights designed to ensure transparency, safety, and fair treatment when receiving energy-saving services. Here’s a clear breakdown of what you’re entitled to:

Voluntary Participation

You are not required to accept any REPS offer or upgrade.
You can shop around and compare providers before agreeing to any service.

Clear Information

Providers must give you accurate, written information about:

- What product or service is being offered
- Any costs involved (many are free or subsidised)
- How the upgrade will improve energy efficiency

Identification & Conduct

All REPS providers must:

- Show official identification when visiting your premises
- Act professionally and respectfully
- Follow strict conduct standards set out in the REPS Code

Proof of Service

After completing a REPS activity, the provider must give you a written statement detailing:

- What was installed or upgraded
- How it contributes to energy savings
- Any warranties or follow-up support

No Pressure Sales

You should never feel pressured to accept a REPS activity.
If someone insists or behaves aggressively, you have the right to refuse service and report the incident.

Complaints & Disputes

If you’re unhappy with a REPS activity or provider:

- Start by contacting the provider directly
- If unresolved, you can lodge a complaint with Consumer and Business Services (CBS) or ESCOSA
- You can also contact the Energy and Water Ombudsman SA for independent dispute resolution

You can find more details on your rights and how to make a complaint on ESCOSA’s REPS FAQs page or the SA Government’s consumer rights portal.