Australia to offer households three hours of free power daily

Australia will introduce a new programme next year that will allow households to access three hours of free solar electricity each day. The initiative, called the Solar Sharer scheme, was announced by Energy Minister Chris Bowen and will initially roll out in New South Wales and South Australia before possible expansion to other regions.

Bowen said the programme aims to ensure that the benefits of renewable energy reach all Australians, including those without solar panels or batteries. Participants will need a smart meter and must opt in to receive the free power allocation. He described the plan as part of a broader package of energy reforms aimed at reducing costs and supporting the transition to clean power.

Australia has already invested heavily in renewable energy and green manufacturing, positioning itself as a future “renewable energy superpower.” Around 4.2 million households, or one in three homes, now have rooftop solar installations, according to official data.

The Solar Sharer announcement, however, drew mixed reactions from the energy industry. Australian Energy Council Chief Executive Louisa Kinnear welcomed the focus on consumer benefits but criticised the lack of consultation with retailers. She said the programme adds regulatory complexity and overlaps with offers already available in the market.

The country’s energy transition continues to stir political debate as Australia seeks to retire ageing coal plants while maintaining energy reliability. The government has pledged to cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 70% from 2005 levels over the next decade, though environmental groups argue the target remains insufficient given its ongoing coal exports.