GoKawiilFrom 1 July 2026, energy retailers in NSW, South Australia, and South-East Queensland must give households at least three hours of free electricity every day. No solar panels required. No need to own your home. You just need a smart meter and to opt in through your retailer to have access to free daytime electricity .
The scheme is called the Solar Sharer Offer. It works by passing on the benefit of cheap midday solar power, which has always existed on the wholesale market but never made it to your bill, directly to households. Since it was first announced in November 2025, one significant change has been made to the design. This article covers what that change is, how the scheme works in practice, and how to get the most out of it.
What Is the Solar Sharer Offer?
Australia has more than 4.3 million rooftop solar installations. On a clear midday, those systems push so much electricity into the grid that the market cannot absorb it at normal prices. Wholesale electricity rates go negative. However, households on standard tariffs never see any of that benefit.
The Solar Sharer Offer changes that. From 1 July 2026, energy retailers must provide at least three hours of free daytime electricity per day, timed to coincide with peak solar output. The free window will sit around midday, with the exact hours tailored to local conditions. As a rough guide, expect something like 11am to 2pm or noon to 3pm.
To access it:
You need a smart meter (most Australian homes already have one)
If you do not have one, most retailers will install it at no charge
You opt in through your energy retailer when the scheme launches
Which States Are Included in the Solar Sharer Offer from July 2026?
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