About 6500 homes will be eligible under the $26.3 million Supercharged Solar for Renters scheme, which the government claims will shave up to $700 off tenants’ annual power bills.
Eligible landlords can receive a rebate of up to $3500 on a solar system for a detached dwelling, duplex or townhouse that is being rented for $1000 per week or less.
A similar trial was run by the former Labor government but ultimately abandoned.
“We promised to restore this vital program, and that’s exactly what we’ve done,” Queensland Treasurer David Janetzki said.
“Queenslanders’ love of rooftop solar is evident, with 40 per cent of the state’s households adopting it.
“This program ensures the strong take-up continues and renters also reap the benefits.”
The policy has the approval of the Queensland Council of Social Service and the peak real estate body, Real Estate Industry Queensland (REIQ).
“From our perspective, we think this is a win-win,” Kirralea Whittel from REIQ said.
“We think this is a win for our landlords in improving their assets, but certainly a win for our tenants in cost of living.”
Landlords must apply and be conditionally approved under the scheme before purchasing and installing the solar system.
Tenants and body corporates may also be required to approve the installation of the system.
The program has been launched just days after the federal government confirmed it will not be extending its $300 energy bill relief scheme into next year.
Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers announced on Monday the $300 bill relief that was offered to households during the 2024-25 financial year and then extended with a $150 subsidy from July until December, would not be extended again.
A report by the Queensland Audit Office has found households can expect to pay an extra $48 a year on their electricity from next year.
