Australia is offering free daytime electricity
4 hours ago
- #Household Savings
- #Renewable Energy
- #Energy Policy
- Starting July 1, 2026, households in NSW, South-East Queensland, and South Australia can access at least 3 hours of free daytime electricity daily through the Solar Sharer Offer by opting in with their retailer and having a smart meter.
- A key change after public consultation is the addition of a 24 kWh daily usage cap during the free window to ensure the scheme's financial sustainability and fairness.
- Savings range from $100 to $1,100 per year based on how much energy use is shifted into the free period, with estimates from the DCCEEW.
- The scheme is especially beneficial for those home during the day, households with schedulable appliances, and renters or apartment dwellers who previously lacked solar access.
- Solar and battery owners can charge batteries for free during the window, and EV owners can schedule charging to reduce costs, though high-draw activities may approach the cap.