Fast read
Renters can still benefit from solar and battery solutions—even without owning a roof. Programs like Victoria’s Solar for Apartments, community solar farms, and new technologies like virtual net metering (VNM) are making clean energy more accessible. Initiatives such as the Haystacks Solar Garden and the Social Housing Energy Performance Initiative (SHEPI) show how governments are tackling the “split incentive”—where landlords pay, but tenants benefit. Portable
solar kits also offer flexible, small-scale solutions. As policy and technology evolve, renters across Australia are gaining more tools to cut bills and tap into renewable energy.
What solar and battery programs could be developed to help renters?
Solar for Apartments (Victoria)
Victoria’s original Solar for Rentals program has evolved into the Solar for Apartments initiative. It provides rebates of up to $2,800 per apartment, with building caps up to $140,000. Round 2 closed in February 2025, with assessments underway. These programs aim to incentivise solar installations on strata and rental properties, enabling renters to access cheaper electricity.
Structuring landlord-tenant agreements
Agreements can be formed where a tenant accepts a modest rent increase in return for lower power bills from a new solar system. The electricity account typically remains in the tenant’s name. Such agreements should clearly define responsibilities for maintenance and ownership. Landlords also benefit from increased property value and appeal to sustainability-conscious tenants.
Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
In residential settings, PPAs are gaining traction. A third party installs and owns the solar system, selling the electricity at a discounted rate to tenants or landlords. This removes the need for upfront capital, making solar more viable for landlords without large budgets.
Community solar and solar gardens: Solar without the roof
Haystacks Solar Garden (NSW)
This 1.5 MW solar farm in Grong Grong allows renters to “own” a share of the energy generated, which is credited back to their electricity bills. This model is ideal for apartment dwellers or renters whose homes are unsuitable for solar panels.
State support for solar gardens
The NSW Government supports models like Haystacks through programs aimed at expanding community energy access to renters, apartment residents, and low-income households.
Virtual net metering and shared solar technologies
Virtual Net Metering (VNM)
VNM enables tenants to receive credits for solar generated on a shared system (such as an apartment rooftop or remote solar garden). Although not yet mainstream in Australia, pilot programs are underway. One recent project by Enosi and Woolworths trialled solar sharing across multiple sites using VNM—a potential game-changer for rental solar equity.
Behind-the-meter solar sharing
Technologies like Allume Energy’s SolShare allow solar power from a shared roof system to be distributed directly to multiple apartments behind the meter. This means tenants benefit from real-time solar usage without needing to connect through grid feed-in tariffs or complex metering.
Solar and battery support for social housing
Social Housing Energy Performance Initiative (SHEPI)
SHEPI, funded by the Commonwealth, aims to upgrade over 100,000 social housing properties with energy efficiency measures, including rooftop solar and battery systems. This is expected to reduce power bills for nearly 25% of Australia’s social housing stock.
Community Housing Organisation (CHO) rebates
CHO-managed homes are eligible for solar rebates, with a requirement that bill savings flow directly to tenants. These upgrades also increase building energy performance ratings.
Virtual Power Plants (VPPS)
Some social housing programs integrate VPPs, connecting multiple homes into a network of solar and battery systems. This allows for grid support, while tenants receive reduced electricity costs.
Portable solar and battery systems: A renter-friendly solution
Compact, flexible solar options
Brands like EcoFlow continue to offer high-efficiency portable solar kits and solar generators. These systems are ideal for renters with balconies or small outdoor areas, allowing power for laptops, lights, and appliances during blackouts or camping.
Know the limits
Portable setups won’t power large home appliances, but they can offset small energy uses. They’re easily transportable and don’t require landlord permission or building approvals.
Addressing key challenges
The “split incentive”
Solar installations on rentals often stall because landlords pay for the system while tenants benefit. Smart policy design—such as rebates with rent-control conditions or shared savings models—is essential.
Complexity and low awareness
Renters and landlords may not know where to start or what options are available. Simple, government-backed resources and tools can bridge this gap.
Upfront cost barriers
Even with rebates, costs can deter action. Interest-free loans, PPAs, and group-buying models can reduce the burden.
Regulatory evolution needed
Broader adoption of virtual net metering, formalised shared ownership models, and landlord-tenant solar frameworks depend on clearer national regulation and state-led pilots.
What can renters do right now?
Start the conversation
Ask your landlord about solar—especially if there are government incentives available. Government energy websites often offer guides to support this dialogue.
Join a solar garden
If your home isn’t suitable for rooftop solar, see if a solar garden or community energy project is operating near you.
Switch to GreenPower
Choose a GreenPower-accredited electricity plan. It’s not rooftop solar, but it guarantees your energy provider is investing in renewables on your behalf.
Consider portable solar tech
If you’re tech-savvy and have limited space, a compact solar generator could cut your power use while offering mobility and backup during outages.
Conclusion
Australia is steadily making solar and battery solutions more accessible to renters. Programs like Solar for Apartments, community solar projects, and SHEPI are breaking down historic barriers. Meanwhile, technologies like VNM and SolShare are changing what’s possible in shared buildings. Whether you’re a renter or landlord, clean energy is becoming a real option—and Your Energy Answers can connect you with trusted local professionals to explore your best path forward.
