Free electricity during the day: Australia launches a solar energy program for households
Australia will start offering households in three states at least three hours of free solar electricity every day — even if they don’t have rooftop solar panels. The federal government announced that the Solar Sharer program will launch in July 2026, giving residents of New South Wales, South Australia, and Southeast Queensland free electricity during sunny hours.
The offer will be available to homes with smart meters, which make up the majority of Australian households. During the free period, residents can run washing machines, dishwashers, air conditioners, or charge electric vehicles and home batteries without paying for electricity.
The plan could be expanded to other regions by 2027. It will be implemented by adjusting the default market offer — a regulation that caps electricity prices charged by retailers in some parts of Australia.
There are over four million rooftop solar systems in Australia, which often generate excess power during sunny hours. This oversupply can even lead to negative electricity prices. However, high nighttime demand puts pressure on the grid.
The Solar Sharer program aims to shift electricity use to periods of peak solar generation. By encouraging daytime consumption, the initiative could help stabilize the grid, lower peak-time prices, and reduce the need for costly infrastructure upgrades.
