Free Electricity for Some Australian Households

By Anna Chisholm

ABC Lifestyle

Topic: Energy Policy

Monday, 29 June 2026, 4:30 am

You can save money by using appliances during free power periods.

Some Australian households will get free electricity for three hours a day.

The Solar Sharer Offer starts in New South Wales, South Australia, and south-east Queensland on July 1.

The new changes mean you can save money if you use electricity at the right time.

To get free electricity, you need to be in the right area and have a smart meter.

Other areas may also get free electricity soon.

Victoria will start a similar plan with three hours of free electricity from October 1.

You need a smart meter to get the Solar Sharer Offer.

Smart meters will be installed in all homes by November 30, 2030.

Brendan Lang has already saved money by using cheaper electricity periods.

Some energy providers offer free electricity periods.

Brendan Lang is with a provider that offers three hours of free power.

He has already changed his power use to save money.

More home tips

Perspective by Koren Helbig

Topic: Home

Topic: Explainer

You can save money by using appliances during off-peak times.

Energy expert Alan Pears says you should check if you will really save money.

Some contracts may charge more at other times.

When does the free electricity period start?

The free period will likely be between 11 am and 2 pm.

Solar power generated during the day can go to waste.

Smart meters can help you save energy.

Brian Spak says smart meters can help you find out what uses up energy.

You can check your energy use online or with your bill.

A smart meter is like a smartphone for your energy use.

It can help you manage your energy consumption.

Change when you use and charge appliances.

Use appliances during the free electricity period.

You can wash clothes, cook, or vacuum during the free period.

If you're not home, you can use timers or scheduling options.

Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen says there is enough solar power for everyone.

Consider how much electricity an appliance uses.

Safety is important when using appliances when you're not home.

Dishwashers and washing machines are good appliances to schedule.

You can also use free electricity to run your electric oven or barbecue.

Electric vehicles can also save you money.

Charging your vehicle during off-peak times can reduce costs.

Pre-cool or preheat your home

You can warm up or cool down your home during the free period.

Most air conditioners have a timer function.

But it's not worth it if your home is not insulated.

Insulation can help you save energy and money.

Heating and cooling use up a lot of energy.

Lack of insulation can drive up your bills.

Consider your hot water system

Switching to a heat pump hot water system can save you money.

You can schedule when your hot water system runs.

Heat pump hot water units use less electricity than traditional heaters.

It's still worth setting them to run during the day.

Some models have timers and smart controls.

If you can't schedule your hot water system, consider other appliances.

Dishwashers and washing machines use a lot of hot water.

Be thoughtful about when you run them and heat up your water.

Monday, 29 June 2026, 4:30 am

See more ABC coverage

Promotion

Practice Listening