Australia to offer free solar power for three hours a day

Australian households will be able to access three hours a day of free solar power under a new energy-saving programme unveiled by the government on November 4, set to begin next year.

"We want to see the benefits of renewable energy flow to all," Energy Minister Chris Bowen told national broadcaster ABC.

In a statement, Bowen said the Solar Sharer scheme will initially be rolled out in some jurisdictions, including New South Wales and South Australia, before a potential expansion, The Peninsula writes.

"It's not a silver bullet, and it is part of a suite of measures, but it's a good one," Bowen told ABC.

Australia has invested billions in solar power, wind turbines, and green manufacturing, pledging to become a renewable energy superpower. The country has also been quick to adopt solar power, with roughly 4.2 million homes — about one in three — already having panels installed on their roofs, according to official data.

The new government offer will be available to all Australians, "even those without solar panels or batteries," Bowen said, provided they have a smart meter and opt in to the new plan.

While welcoming initiatives aimed at improving customer experience, Australian Energy Council chief executive Louisa Kinnear said she was "disappointed" the government had not consulted the industry ahead of the announcement.

"This change introduces a complex regulatory solution that delivers a customer outcome that is already being offered by many retailers," she said in a statement.

Australia’s energy future has become a contentious political issue as the nation seeks to phase out ageing coal-fired power stations while maintaining reliable electricity supply.

In September, Australia pledged to cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 70 per cent from 2005 levels over the next decade — a target that activists argue is not ambitious enough.

However, the country’s green ambitions are at odds with its heavy reliance on fossil fuels, remaining one of the world’s largest coal exporters.

By Sabina Mammadli