Australia will offer households three hours of free solar power a day, no panels needed

Residents don't need solar panels, but must have a smart meter to benefit

Serving tech enthusiasts for over 25 years.
TechSpot means tech analysis and advice you can trust.

In a nutshell: Benefitting from solar energy usually requires the costly installation of solar panels. However, with enough panels installed in a region, a power grid often runs into an energy surplus during peak sunlight hours. Rather than letting this energy go to waste, Australia is offering free solar power to residents, whether or not they own panels.

Australian households in three states will soon be guaranteed at least three hours of free electricity each day under a new federal plan known as "Solar Sharer." The initiative, announced by Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen, begins in July 2026 for customers in New South Wales, south-east Queensland, and South Australia, with expansion to other regions expected by 2027.

The Guardian notes that the plan does not require rooftop panels. Instead, homes equipped with smart meters can use the offer to run high-demand appliances – such as washing machines, dishwashers, air conditioners, or electric-vehicle chargers – during a designated midday window when solar generation is abundant. The government hopes this will shift energy use away from evening peaks, helping stabilize the grid and reduce network costs.

Australians have installed more than four million solar systems, leading to regular surpluses of cheap daytime electricity. Bowen said the Solar Sharer program would make sure "every last ray of sunshine" powers homes rather than going to waste. He described it as proof that "what's good for the planet is good for your pocket."

The government will implement the plan through changes to the national "default market offer," which limits how much retailers can charge for power. The Australian Energy Regulator will oversee compliance to ensure customers receive fair pricing outside the free period. Retailers must provide a minimum three-hour window, but may customize their programs as long as they meet federal standards.

Existing smart meter customers will be automatically eligible. Those without one can request installation from their energy retailer, which in most cases is free. Households unable to shift daytime use or lacking smart appliances may see limited benefit, but renters and low-income families with flexible schedules stand to gain the most.

// Related Stories

• Australia sues Microsoft for hiding cheaper Microsoft 365 plans without Copilot
• Nvidia GPUs head to space next month in first step toward AI data centers in orbit

Industry reaction has been mixed. The Australian Energy Council criticized the lack of consultation and warned of potential market disruption. In contrast, the Smart Energy Council welcomed the announcement as good news for customers trying to cope with recent increases in the cost of living.

Consumer groups note that the program's success will depend on the ability of families to adjust their usage habits.

"Run your dishwasher or washing machine in the middle of the day," said sustainable-living advocate Helen Oakey. "Pre-heat or pre-cool your home, or give your EV a midday solar snack."

The program aligns climate goals with cost-of-living relief, turning surplus solar generation into tangible savings. Whether it delivers widespread bill reductions or remains a niche perk will depend on participation – and on how many Australians can live their daily routines by the rhythm of the sun.