Australia Promises Three Free Hours of Solar Power a Day — Even for Homes Without Panels
Australian households in New South Wales, Queensland, and South Australia will soon be able to access three free hours of electricity each day, thanks to the government’s new “Solar Sharer” initiative set to launch in July 2026.
The scheme, announced by Energy Minister Chris Bowen, is designed to encourage people to use power during the middle of the day — when solar energy production peaks and electricity is cheapest.
“We’re a solar nation, with 4.2 million households already generating power from their roofs,” Bowen said. “This will take pressure off the grid during peak times.”
How It Works
Households don’t need rooftop solar panels to take advantage of the offer — but they do need a smart meter. Most energy retailers will install one for free upon request.
Each participating power company will offer its own version of the Solar Sharer plan, as long as it meets national criteria set by the Australian Energy Regulator (AER).
Further details, including which hours will qualify as “free,” are still being finalised. The Energy Department and AER are currently gathering public feedback, with the aim to expand the program nationwide by 2027.
Who Benefits Most
The biggest winners will be people who can shift their energy use into the middle of the day — such as remote workers, retirees, or families with programmable appliances.
“It’s about being smart with your timing,” said Helen Oakey, CEO of Renew, a sustainable living group.
“Run your dishwasher, washing machine, or dryer in the middle of the day. Set your hot water or heat pump to operate when power is free.”
She also recommended that electric vehicle owners plug in for a “midday solar snack” rather than charging overnight.
However, Energy Consumers Australia policy chief Brian Spak said lower-income families or those out during the day could struggle to take advantage.
“The best way to save is to use energy when it’s free — but that’s easier said than done for households where no one’s home,” he said.
Existing Free Power Plans
If Australians don’t want to wait until 2026, several energy providers already offer plans with free power periods, including AGL’s Three for Free, OVO Energy’s Free 3, Red Energy’s EV Saver, GloBird’s ZeroHero, and Synergy’s Midday Saver.
According to the ACCC, about 79% of households could save money simply by switching to a better energy deal. The Energy Made Easy website allows households in most states to compare rates and find cheaper offers.
Will It Actually Lower Bills?
Experts are divided. While supporters say it will cut costs and boost solar use, others argue the government’s involvement is unnecessary.
“This is populist nonsense,” said Professor Bruce Mountain, director of the Victorian Energy Policy Centre. “These kinds of free-hour deals have existed for years. There’s no need to legislate them.”
Mountain said he’s been on a similar plan for three years — using the free midday period to run household appliances and charge his electric vehicle.
A Step Toward a Smarter Energy Future
Bowen insists the policy is about helping Australians adapt to a more solar-powered energy grid.
“It’s not a one-size-fits-all answer,” he said. “But for millions of households, it’s a way to make the most of our clean energy future.”