Queensland solar homes are using more grid electricity than non-solar, says Energex boss

Head of state-owned power distributor says solar households in the south-east previously cut grid consumption but 'don't worry so much about their bill now'

Solar-powered homes in south-east Queensland, which boasts the world's highest concentration of rooftop panels, have begun consuming on average more electricity from the grid than those without solar, the network operator has found.

Terry Effeney, the chief executive of state-owned power distributor Energex, said the trend - which belied the "green agenda" presumed to drive those customers - was among the challenges facing a region that nevertheless stood the best chance globally of making solar the cornerstone of its electricity network.