News Brief: Labor’s Solar Sharer Scheme
Summary
The Australian federal government is proposing a “Solar Sharer” scheme, offering free electricity for at least three midday hours in specific regions. The plan aims to utilize excess solar energy and shift demand to daytime, but its benefits and costs are debated.
Key Points
- Eligibility: Initially applies only to households in New South Wales, South Australia, and South-east Queensland under the Default Market Offer. Expansion to other states is under consultation for 2027.
- Requirements: Consumers must actively sign up for the offer and have a smart meter installed.
- Potential Beneficiaries:
- People with smart appliances (e.g., programmable washing machines, dishwashers).
- Households with electric vehicles (EVs) and solar batteries.
- Individuals who work from home.
- Higher-income households (more likely to afford necessary technology).
- Controversies:
- Experts warn retailers might raise prices during non-free hours to compensate.
- Renters and lower-income households may face barriers due to lack of smart appliances, batteries, or being away during the day.
新闻简报：工党的“太阳能共享”计划
总结
澳大利亚联邦政府提议推出“太阳能共享”计划，在特定地区提供每天至少三小时的午间免费电力。该计划旨在利用过剩的太阳能并转移用电需求至白天，但其益处和成本存在争议。
关键点
- 适用资格：初期仅适用于默认市场报价（Default Market Offer）覆盖的新南威尔士州、南澳大利亚州和昆士兰州东南部地区的家庭。政府正与其他州协商，计划在2027年前扩展该计划。
- 要求：消费者需主动注册该优惠，并安装智能电表。
- 潜在受益群体：
- 拥有智能家电（如可编程洗衣机、洗碗机）的人。
- 拥有电动汽车和太阳能电池的家庭。
- 在家工作的人。
- 高收入家庭（更有可能负担所需技术）。
- 争议点：
- 专家警告零售商可能通过提高非免费时段的电价来弥补损失。
- 租房者和低收入家庭可能因缺乏智能家电、电池或白天不在家而无法受益。
Original Article Link: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-11-06/solar-sharer-scheme-free-power-electricity-who-benefits/105973232