The proposal would provide $10 billion to the Commonwealth Electricity Corporation to establish a ‘renters’ right to solar’ program.

The ‘renters’ right to solar’ program would allow renters to request the installation of an average-sized solar panel system, up to 8kW, to be installed at their rental properties. Landlords would only be permitted to refuse such requests on reasonable grounds. Legitimate reasons would be if body corporate rules prevent it, engineering considerations, or the property being unsuitable.

The solar systems and their installation would be paid for through a new $10 billion fund established though the proposed publicly-owned electricity company Commonwealth Electricity Corporation. The cost of purchasing and installing the solar panels would be listed as an asset on the Commonwealth Electricity Corporation’s balance sheet, with a caveat placed on the title of the property.

The interest rate would be whichever is lower between the annual change in either the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings (AWOTE).

Landlords could elect to pay this amount off early if they choose; otherwise, the Commonwealth Electricity Corporation would be entitled to be repaid the amount owing when the property is sold or its ownership transferred.

The proposal starts on 1 July 2025