Australia will offer free solar power to households by 2026

(CLO) Australia has just announced the Solar Sharer program, allowing millions of households in the country to receive at least 3 hours of free solar power every day by 2026.

According to Australian Energy Minister Chris Bowen, the program will launch in the states of New South Wales, South Australia and southeast Queensland from July 2026.

Residents can get free electricity during the midday hours, which can range from 11am to 2pm, when solar generation peaks. “People who shift their electricity usage to these times will benefit directly, whether they have solar panels or not, or own or rent their homes,” Mr Bowen stressed.

Mr. Chris Bowen said that people using electricity during lunchtime will benefit directly.
Photo: ABC News/Callum Flinn.

To participate, households need a smart meter and will only really benefit if they shift their peak usage to mid-day and run appliances and charge their vehicles at that time. They also need to actively choose a service plan from their energy supplier. The program is linked to the Default Market Offer and maximum prices set by the Australian Energy Regulator.

The Australian government hopes the program will reduce peak evening demand, prevent costly grid upgrades and lower electricity prices for all users. Australia has about 4 million solar households, leading to negative electricity prices in sunny afternoons, while subsequent high demand puts pressure on the grid.

This means that this initiative can both help reduce electricity load during peak hours and take advantage of excess solar power during the noon time frame.

The scheme is expected to be rolled out nationwide from 2027, after consultation with other states. Tasmania may be an exception, as it relies heavily on hydropower and has no midday solar surplus. Many Australian electricity suppliers already offer similar free plans, helping people in other areas looking for alternatives to Solar Sharer.

The initiative is part of Australia's target of 82% renewable energy by 2030 and a 43% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to 2005. The program is considered a green step forward, but needs to be monitored to ensure equitable benefits for all citizens.

Source: https://congluan.vn/uc-se-mien-phi-dien-mat-troi-cho-cac-ho-dan-vao-nam-2026-10316606.html