Community Renewables Program

If you own a residential or business property in the City of Burnside, you are eligible for this program. If you are renting, please register your interest because Tindo are working on solutions for you, too.

This program is currently best suited to homeowners, but Tindo is actively working on solutions to better support renters. If you are a renter, please register your interest and indicate your rental status. We will keep you updated on any options as they become available.

If you own an apartment, we encourage you to get in touch. Depending on the setup of your building and ownership arrangements, there may be a solution already available.

Register your interest with Tindo to stay informed about upcoming events and information sessions. Tindo will also be in touch to offer a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your needs.

Register your interest with Tindo to be informed about upcoming events and information sessions. Tindo will also be in touch to offer a free, no-obligation quote, tailored to your needs.

Yes, you can choose to install solar panels only, a battery only, or both together.

Yes, if you already have solar panels, you can get a quote to add a battery.

No, you do not need to pay upfront. You can pay upfront if you want to, but there are Pay-As-You-Save options available, too. You can choose what works best for your home (or business) and budget. The Tindo team will explain the options to you.

No, there is no obligation to proceed. You are welcome to attend an event, receive a quote, and decide in your own time.

Yes, if required. Once you request a quote, Tindo will assess if a site visit is required to assess your property infrastructure. This helps ensure the system is tailored to your home or business.

Tindo can typically install new systems within four weeks, depending on demand and supply. Once an installation has commenced, installations are generally completed within a day or two, depending on the size and complexity of the system. Tindo will provide a clear timeline during the quoting process.

Tindo systems come with warranties and support. They will provide information on servicing, warranties, and ongoing maintenance options as part of your quote.

Yes, Tindo will help you access any available federal and state rebates, including the Cheaper Home Batteries Program.

A Virtual Power Plant (VPP) allows you to trade your excess solar energy and access additional savings. Joining a VPP is optional. Tindo will explain the pros and cons so you can decide what is best for you.

The program will run in response to community interest and uptake, with several events already planned for 2025–26 and the potential for more based on demand.

Please note that federal rebates which reduce the upfront cost of solar and batteries decrease each calendar year, regardless of this program. Acting sooner may help maximise your savings.

Tindo was selected through a competitive and robust procurement process, managed in accordance with Council’s Procurement Policy. Tindo’s submission stood out for its competitive pricing, high-quality products, and excellent customer service.

The procurement process was managed externally, by LGA Procurement. The process was overseen by an external probity advisor. An external energy advisor participated on the evaluation panel for the procurement.

As one Council Member declared a conflict of interest, they were not involved in Council decision making for this project. No Council Members were involved in the procurement process. 

For further details, see The Procurement Process of Burnside’s Community Renewables Program(PDF, 223KB).

Yes, the small fee is intended to recover the costs of Council running the program. Council has incurred costs through the procurement process and Council staff have spent substantial time on the project.

The fee is far less than Tindo’s normal cost to attract customers in the market, allowing the savings to be passed on to the Burnside residents by way of reduced system prices and extra value. 

How much is the fee?

For each solar or battery system installed, Tindo will pay Council $200.

Council may receive an additional payment if Burnside customers sign-up with Amber as an electricity retailer as part of a package with Tindo. These payments are between $50 and $200, depending on the package. These referral payments are possible because Tindo and Amber costs to attract customers are far less than normal through the Burnside Community Renewables Program.

Council understands that navigating the solar and battery market can be overwhelming. With so many providers and offers available, it can be difficult to know who to trust or whether you’re getting good value. Through the Community Renewables Program, Council has selected a trusted local supplier that meets high standards for quality, service, and pricing. This gives residents and businesses confidence that they’re accessing a reliable product from a reputable provider, with the added benefit of local support.

The program also delivers on Council’s strategic commitments, including the Strategic Community Plan (Priority 2.4: Council and Community Emission Reductions) and Environmental Sustainability Strategy (Priority: Support community emissions reduction). It directly supports these priorities by enabling residents and businesses to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through easier access to solar and battery systems.

We know from engagement and community feedback that there is a gap in knowledge when it comes to renewable energy, and that many people want to take action but aren’t sure where to start. Council already supports residents through initiatives like tree planting, waste reduction, and habitat improvement on private land. This program is another way we can support our community to live more sustainably.

Council identified Tindo as a trusted local supplier and is helping to promote the Community Renewables Program to support residents and businesses interested in installing solar panels or batteries.

Council is not involved in the private contracts between property owners and Tindo. Installation and connection requirements, including any conditions set by SA Power Networks (the owner of South Australia’s electricity grid), are managed directly between residents, Tindo, and SAPN. Council does not have oversight of individual agreements or technical circumstances.