January 22, 2026

Solar Savings Switch On for Queensland Renters & Landlords

The Queensland Government’s Supercharged Solar for Renters program officially opened on 12 December 2025, offering a major boost for renters facing rising electricity costs while helping landlords invest in more energy-efficient properties.

The program provides eligible landlords with rebates of up to $3,500 to install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on rental properties across Queensland. Importantly, applicants must apply for and receive conditional approval before installing a system and claiming the rebate.

Designed to ease cost-of-living pressures, the initiative is expected to benefit around 6,500 renting households, with estimated electricity bill savings of approximately $700 per year, depending on location and system size. Rebates apply to properties with existing tenancy agreements, ensuring tenants can access immediate savings.

The program also supports the Queensland Government’s commitment to affordable, reliable and sustainable energy, while delivering tangible benefits to property owners. Installing solar can improve a property’s appeal, increase its value and provide a competitive edge in the rental market.

Who is eligible?
To qualify for the rebate, landlords must live in Australia, own a rental property they do not occupy themselves, and have tenant consent (and body corporate consent where applicable). Each property is eligible for one rebate, with landlords able to apply for up to three properties.

Eligible rental properties must be located in Queensland, be a Class 1a building (such as a house, duplex or townhouse) or a secondary dwelling, have a current lease in place, be rented for $1,000 or less per week, and be individually metered. Properties with existing solar systems or those part of an embedded network are not eligible.

Solar systems must meet strict requirements, including being supplied by a New Energy Tech Approved Seller, using Clean Energy Council-approved panels and inverters, and being installed by appropriately accredited and licensed professionals.

Industry welcomes the move
The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) has welcomed the program, describing it as a win-win for renters and landlords.

“We welcome the Supercharged Solar for Renters program, which will provide much-needed cost-of-living relief to renters while also incentivising improvements to the energy efficiency of Queensland’s rental stock,” REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said.

“This program provides an essential opportunity for renters who otherwise wouldn’t have access to solar power and the associated benefits of reduced electricity bills.

“While the upfront cost of installing solar panels can be significant, this new rebate program provides an opportunity for lessors to lower that costly capital investment, increase the value of their properties, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

“It’s important to remember that property owners have certain legislative obligations when it comes to the standard of the rental properties, but as solar energy is an “add on” feature, this incentive may sway the minds of investors who appreciate the long-term benefits they may gain from a solar upgrade.”

Ms Mercorella said growing environmental awareness was also influencing housing choices.

“We’re called the sunshine state for a reason and with Queensland’s abundance of sunshine, solar power is a natural fit for property owners looking to invest in more sustainable, energy-efficient homes,” she said.

“Energy-efficient homes are more attractive to environmentally conscious tenants and buyers, and solar panels represent a long-term investment that can increase a property’s value.

“Investing in solar energy not only provides immediate savings for renters but can also add lasting value to the property, as another marketable attribute making it more appealing on the rental market and potentially attracting tenants faster.

“We encourage property managers to share the details and benefits of this program with their clients so eligible lessors can apply to take advantage of this rebate opportunity.”

The Supercharged Solar for Renters program is now open for applications, with thousands of households across Queensland set to benefit from cleaner energy and lower power bills.

The Government's Supercharged Solar for Renters program will assist with tackling the cost of living. Photo credit: Douglas Cliff