Between the washing pile that never seems to end and devices constantly needing charging, it can sometimes feel like running a family home requires a small power station.
So, when we heard about an initiative that gives households up to three hours of free electricity a day, we were intrigued because let’s be honest, when was the last time you heard the words “free” and “electricity” in the same sentence?
The Solar Sharer Offer that launched in July 2026 helps eligible households reduce their electricity bills simply by shifting some everyday tasks into a free-power period during the middle of the day.
What’s the catch?
Surprisingly, there doesn’t seem to be one.
The idea is to encourage people to use electricity when solar energy is being generated in abundance. Rather than letting excess solar power go to waste, households can take advantage of a daily free-power window.
Before you ask, no, you don’t need solar panels on your roof. You also don’t need a home battery. In fact, renters can get involved too.
Could this work for your family?
Think about your average day for a second.
Do you usually put on a load of washing while working from home?
Do you set the dishwasher before heading out for school pick-up?
Do the kids seem to have approximately 47 devices permanently sitting on charge?
Then there’s a good chance you’d be using electricity during this window anyway.
The difference is that some of that usage could potentially become free.
What could you run during the free-power period?
If you’re anything like most mums, your first thought was probably:
“So… when can I finally tackle Mount Washmore?”
Some simple ways families could make the most of the free electricity include:
- Running the washing machine
- Using the dryer
- Putting the dishwasher on
- Charging phones, tablets and laptops
- Running the air conditioning before everyone gets home
- Charging an electric vehicle
- Running pool pumps or other larger appliances
It’s not exactly glamorous, but if those everyday chores can help reduce your energy bill, we’re all for it.
Who’s eligible?
The scheme is now available to households with a smart meter in:
- New South Wales
- South Australia
- South East Queensland
Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, you will need to check with your retailer if you are on an eligible plan to participate.
One quick question: do you know if your home has a smart meter?
If the answer is “I’m not entirely sure…” you’re probably not alone! It might be worth checking with your energy provider.
Why did the Government introduce this?
Australia produces a huge amount of solar power during the middle of the day.
The challenge is that many households use most of their electricity in the morning and evening when everyone’s home.
The Solar Sharer Offer is designed to encourage people to shift some of that usage into the middle of the day instead.
For families, that could mean lower energy bills. For the electricity network, it means making better use of all that solar energy.
So how do you sign up?
If the offer becomes available through your retailer, you’ll generally need to:
- Have a smart meter installed
- Check that your energy retailer is participating
- Opt into the relevant plan
It won’t automatically appear on your account, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for announcements from your provider.
The bottom line
We are not suggesting anyone plans their entire life around the dishwasher. However, if you are already doing the washing, charging devices and trying to keep the house comfortable for the family, why not do it during a period where the electricity could be free?
With household budgets feeling tighter than ever, even small savings can make a difference. Also, if someone is offering three hours of free electricity every day, isn’t it at least worth asking your energy provider about?
If there’s one thing mums are good at, it’s finding smart ways to make the family budget stretch just a little bit further!
Want to reduce your power bills further? See how much you can save with Plico’s Solar Savings Calculator. Ladies Renovating Collective members can access an exclusive discount on solar + battery — if you’re ready to make the switch, reach out to Plico today.