07/06/2026
The primary solar share initiative in New South Wales is the Solar Sharer Offer (SSO).
It is a federal government scheme requiring retailers to provide households with at least 3 hours of free electricity every day in the middle of the day.
Key details of the scheme include:
Start Date: The scheme officially begins on 1 July 2026.
Eligibility: Available to all households with a smart meter—even those without rooftop solar panels. This allows renters and apartment residents to access the benefits of solar energy.Free Period: The window is generally expected to be between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm, corresponding to peak solar generation times.
Usage Cap: The scheme includes a fair-use cap of roughly 24 kWh per day (enough to cover the average daily needs of a large family).
The SSO aims to soak up excess daytime solar generation, lower evening peak demand, and balance the electricity grid. It is completely optional, and customers must explicitly sign up for a Solar Sharer plan with their energy retailer.If you are a unit or apartment dweller, the NSW Government also offers a Solar for Apartment Residents grant program.
This initiative co-funds the installation of shared solar systems on eligible multi-unit dwellings.To take advantage of either offer, you can explore the Energy NSW portal to find rebates or contact your current energy retailer on or after July 1 to inquire about transitioning to a Solar Sharer tariff.
