Starting in July 2026, Australian households across selected states will gain access to free electricity for up to three hours a day. This major move is part of the federal government’s new solar-backed initiative known as the Solar Sharer program. With this change coming, many households are already checking whether it’s the right time to Switch Energy Supplier, especially if their current plan doesn’t support the new model.
This is the result of years of growth in Australia’s solar energy sector. And for the first time, people without rooftop panels will also get a slice of the solar savings.
What’s Behind the Free Power Announcement in 2026?
Solar power has exploded across Australia in recent years. According to the federal government, over four million homes now have rooftop panels. This has led to daytime solar production often outpacing demand, especially in sunny parts of the country.
To better manage this, the government has introduced the Solar Sharer program. It aims to reduce strain on the grid by encouraging households to use more electricity during the middle of the day. Instead of letting excess solar go to waste, it will now be shared more widely.
One key trigger behind this shift is affordability. The cost of rooftop solar in Australia has become among the cheapest in the world. Households can now expect to save more, especially if they switch energy suppliers to one that offers smart plans that align with the new program.
Which Areas Will Benefit First From This Plan?
The Solar Sharer program will roll out first in New South Wales, South Australia, and parts of south-east Queensland. Other areas will be added in phases.
There’s no need to install solar panels to qualify. You’ll only need a working smart meter. That’s because the free power is being made available from the oversupply already flowing into the grid during sunny hours. If your current retailer doesn’t support this setup, it may be a good time to consider your options.
With the right provider, a smooth same-day electricity connection is often possible; even options like an AGL New Electricity Connection can be sorted fast, especially for homes with existing smart meters. This is helpful for those who are moving or need quick access to updated plans.
What Does This Mean for the Average Household?
The immediate benefit is simple: up to three hours of free electricity every day. These hours will most likely sit between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., when solar production hits its peak.
For households, this means:
- Running dishwashers and washing machines during midday becomes free
- Charging electric vehicles in the afternoon can cost nothing
- Overall bills can be reduced just by shifting routine use to daylight hours
Even renters and people living in apartments—who couldn’t install solar panels—will finally get to benefit from solar energy.
If your provider isn’t offering access to the free hour plan, or if your current contract is too rigid, you can look to switch to an energy supplier that supports the rollout. A few retailers have already updated their plans to align with the new policy.
How Will This Impact Electricity Prices and Usage Habits?
This shift is expected to bring broader change. Retailers may restructure their plans to encourage solar-friendly usage patterns. Customers who can move their power use to midday will not only save money but also ease pressure on the grid during peak times.
There’s also a good chance we’ll see more flexible, time-based pricing plans introduced. That means households might be rewarded for using energy when there’s too much supply.
All this makes it a strategic time to review your current plan. If your retailer doesn’t offer solar-linked discounts or flexible usage times, you may want to switch energy supplier before July 2026.
Should You Consider Switching Your Energy Supplier Now?
If your current retailer hasn’t announced anything about the Solar Sharer plan or free usage periods, it might be time to check what other retailers are offering. The earlier you act, the more likely you are to take full advantage of the program when it begins.
Switching is easier than many people realise. These days, some retailers and comparison services offer Same Day Electricity Connection, especially if there’s no need to install or move hardware. So even if you decide to switch close to the rollout date, you won’t be left waiting.
When checking plans, here’s what to look for:
| What to Check | Why It Matters |
| Smart Meter Support | Required to access free solar hours |
| Flexible Usage Plans | Lets you save by shifting use to midday |
| Connection Time | Some providers offer same-day electricity connection |
| Exit Fees or Lock-In Contracts | Avoid providers that make switching difficult |
Retailers are updating plans quickly. Being on the front foot could help you save straight away.
How Can You Get Started With This Opportunity?
You don’t need to wait for the rollout to prepare. Here’s what you can do now:
- Check if your home has a smart meter. This is the only hardware you need to join the program.
- Review your current plan. Look at your current provider’s updates and what they say about the Solar Sharer rollout.
- Compare other suppliers. If your current provider isn’t moving quickly, you may want to switch energy supplier to someone who’s ready.
Some energy retailers have already begun promoting solar-hour-compatible plans. Others are holding off. You don’t have to stay with a provider who isn’t keeping up.
What Should You Keep in Mind Before Switching?
The program starts in stages. Not all retailers are ready, and not every region will be included right away. That means you’ll need to look carefully at what each provider offers in your postcode.
Before you switch energy supplier, make sure they’re operating in your area, have compatible plans, and offer good support if you need help with the setup.
Also check whether any contract exit fees apply if you’re on a fixed-term agreement.
Final Thoughts: A Step Towards Smarter, Cheaper Power
Australia is taking a big step forward with this new solar-powered program. It benefits both the grid and the consumer, helping people take advantage of the midday energy surplus while saving on power bills.
Whether you’re a homeowner, a renter, or someone moving soon, this is a rare opportunity to cut your energy costs without needing solar panels of your own. It’s also a great time to switch energy supplier if your current plan isn’t ready for the changes.
With smart meters already in place in many homes, the only thing left is to choose a plan that works with the program. Many households will save hundreds of dollars a year by making a few simple adjustments.
Now’s the time to act—before the July 2026 launch. Compare plans, check your eligibility, and set yourself up to benefit from one of the most exciting changes in Australia’s energy market.