From 1 July 2026, energy retailers in NSW, South Australia, and South-East Queensland must provide households with at least three hours of free daytime electricity each day under the Solar Sharer Offer. No solar panels or home ownership are required; only a smart meter and an opt‑in through the retailer are needed. The free window aligns with peak solar output, typically around 11 am to 2 pm or noon to 3 pm, and passes on the benefit of wholesale midday prices that often go negative.

The scheme works by granting households access to the cheap midday solar power that already exists on the wholesale market but never reached retail bills. To participate, customers confirm they have a smart meter (most homes already do) and opt in when the program launches. Retailers will install a meter at no cost if one is missing.

After public consultation, a reasonable use cap of 24 kWh per day was added to keep the offer financially sustainable for retailers and fair for all grid users. This cap reflects roughly the daily use of an average five‑person household; exceeding it simply reverts to standard daytime rates for the remainder of the period.

Modelling by the DCCEEW shows savings of $100‑$190 per year for shifting 10 % of load into the free window, rising to $400‑$1,100 per year for shifting 25‑30 %. Households with solar and batteries can charge storage or EVs at no cost during the window, while renters and apartment dwellers gain access to solar‑derived benefits for the first time. To sign up, contact your retailer from 1 July 2026, verify you have a smart meter, and opt in.