With power bills continuing to bite, some Aussies are about to get a little relief. From July 1, eligible households in parts of New South Wales, South Australia and south-east Queensland will be able to access up to three hours of free electricity each day through a new initiative known as the Solar Sharer Offer.
How Does It Work?
The idea is simple: Australia generates plenty of solar power in the middle of the day, and much of it goes unused. Rather than waste it, participating energy retailers will offer customers a three-hour window of free electricity during peak solar generation times. That means you could run the dishwasher, do a load of washing, charge devices or crank the air-con without adding to your bill.

Who Can Get It?
For now, the offer is only available to households in New South Wales, South Australia and south-east Queensland. To take advantage of it, you’ll also need a smart meter and you’ll have to sign up with your electricity retailer actively. It won’t happen automatically. While it’s only launching in select regions for now, it could be a sign of things to come as Australia looks for new ways to make the most of its growing solar network.

