Two exciting developments will lower household electricity bills, strengthen the local grid, and help power-up our renewable energy.
First, from 1 July 2026, households can access free electricity from 11am to 2pm through the Solar Sharer Offer. You don’t need rooftop solar and you don’t have to own your home. Renters are eligible too.
There’s one important thing: You need to contact your electricity retailer to opt in and you need a smart meter which your retailer can install. Because electricity costs a little more outside the free period, the offer delivers the greatest savings when you shift energy-hungry tasks to the middle of the day; like clothes washing, clothes drying, dishwashing, air conditioning, water heating, EV charging or running the pool pump.
Second, from 17 June 2026, you can save energy in your home.
The NSW government’s Home Energy Saver program offers interest-free loans to eligible households of up to $15,000, repayable over as long as 10 years.
The loans can help fund rooftop solar, home batteries, insulation, air conditioning, switchboard upgrades, ceiling fans and draught-proofing. Later this year, eligible concession card holders will be able to access rebates of up to $4,000.
Together, these initiatives are a powerful combination.


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