Solar Energy Becoming a Reality for Apartment Dwellers in NSW
Apartment owners in New South Wales now have a clearer path to solar power, thanks to new technology and government support aimed at making rooftop systems more accessible and affordable in high-density housing.
Although Australia leads the world in rooftop solar adoption, uptake among apartments lags significantly — with only 3.5% of NSW units having solar, compared to over 30% of standalone homes.
Joel Pringle from advocacy group Solar Citizens says this is the best time to make the switch. “With more funding and assistance, it’s getting easier,” he said.
New Grants to Accelerate Solar in Apartments
The NSW government’s new Solar for Apartment Residents (SoAR) program offers up to $150,000 in matched funding for shared solar systems in apartment complexes with 3 to 55 units. Applications close December 1.
With $25 million allocated, the initiative could fund between 150 and 200 projects. Eligible costs include panels, labour, installation tech, and other related expenses.
Strata committees or managing bodies must apply on behalf of entire buildings — individual unit owners cannot apply directly.
How It Works — and the Tech Behind It
Allume Energy’s SolShare technology helps apartments share rooftop solar energy efficiently, dynamically directing power to the units that need it throughout the day.
The NSW government also amended strata laws in 2021, lowering the voting threshold for sustainability upgrades — including solar — from 75% to just 50%.
However, as new high-rise developments spring up, Mr Pringle says energy infrastructure must be factored in from the start: “We can’t build all these buildings and then fix them later.”
Getting Started: Talk to Your Neighbours
Installing solar in apartments still depends on community agreement. “Get to know your neighbours and who’s on the strata committee,” said Mr Pringle.
Tools like SunSPOT and calculators from solar providers can estimate a building’s needs and capacity, but speaking with a solar consultant remains the best first step.
Battery Incentives and Broader Energy Policy
While one in three homes have solar panels, just one in 40 have a battery. Labor has proposed subsidising 30% of the cost of household batteries under a $2.3 billion plan, which could save homes up to $1,100 per year.
These subsidies would first benefit homes with existing solar but could also extend to apartments once systems are installed.
Opposition leader Peter Dutton criticised the plan, arguing it mainly benefits wealthier households. Instead, the Coalition is prioritising gas expansion and the introduction of seven nuclear power stations.
