Victorian households will be able to access three hours of free electricity each day under a new scheme aimed at reducing energy costs and easing demand on the grid.
The Midday Power Saver will begin on 1 October 2026, allowing households to shift electricity use to the middle of the day when supply from renewable sources is higher. The program is expected to save families up to $300 a year on energy bills, rising to as much as $1,070 for households with solar panels and batteries.
Premier Jacinta Allan said, “This could save families up to $300 per year off their energy bills – more if they have solar and batteries.”
Around 2.6 million households across Victoria will be eligible and can opt into the offer through their energy provider. Retailers will be required to provide a discounted tariff during the designated midday period, with further details on timing and pricing to be released in May.
The scheme is designed to encourage households to use electricity during periods of lower demand, helping reduce pressure on the network during peak times. It is also expected to support people working from home or using smart appliances that can be scheduled to run during the day.
Allan said, “It’s another reason why working from home can save you time and money.”
The government says the program is enabled by increased renewable energy generation, which produces surplus electricity during daylight hours. More than 850,000 Victorians currently generate solar power, contributing to lower daytime energy costs.
Victoria has close to 100 renewable energy projects in operation, positioning the state as a leading producer of clean energy. The government said the Midday Power Saver extends the benefit of lower-cost daytime power to a broader group of households.
Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio said, “Whether you work from home or have smart appliances, the Midday Power Saver will save Victorians money.”
She added, “Liberals will block renewable energy and send power bills up.”
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