Advocates Push for Renters’ Access to Solar and EV Charging Solutions
State governments are being called upon to implement stricter regulations to enhance electrification and energy efficiency in rental properties. The goal is to allow tenants to utilise plug-in balcony solar units, portable batteries, and bi-directional electric vehicle chargers without needing landlord approval.
Rewiring Australia has proposed five policy measures aimed at incentivising landlords to electrify their properties. The first step involves establishing minimum rental standards across all states and territories that mandate the replacement of gas appliances, such as hot water systems and heaters, with efficient electric alternatives when they reach the end of their functional life.
Enhancing Transparency for Renters
Beyond the replacement of gas appliances, Rewiring Australia recommends implementing mandatory heat disclosures. This would ensure renters are informed about the heating and cooling costs associated with a property, aligning with a voluntary trial currently underway in New South Wales.
Furthermore, the organisation advises that landlords should be responsible for all fixed gas costs and provide financial assistance for property improvements through loans that can be repaid upon sale of the property. The proposal highlights, “Renters are burdened with the entire cost of a gas connection – a connection they didn’t select nor have the right to remove.” This change would incentivise landlords to transition rental properties away from gas.
State Initiatives on Rental Standards
Electrifying rental properties presents a unique challenge as the benefits primarily favour tenants over landlords. In Victoria, new regulations will be in place from May 2027 mandating that gas water heaters and room heaters be replaced with electric options once they become obsolete, coupled with minimum insulation requirements.
New South Wales is currently considering similar proposals, while all rentals in the Australian Capital Territory must meet minimum insulation standards by December of this year. On a national level, the federal government’s Solar Sharer initiative will offer three hours of free daytime electricity starting in July, a model that Victoria plans to adopt as well.
Advancements in Plug-in Solar Technologies
Rewiring Australia CEO Francis Vierboom notes that plug-in solar technology is gaining popularity in Europe and the United States due to its simplicity and immediate savings. He emphasises that Australia risks falling behind, stating, “Our current regulations haven’t evolved alongside the advancements that are now possible. This is a straightforward regulatory adjustment: modify the standards, permit these devices, and clarify that landlords cannot unreasonably deny usage.”
Efforts to Support Rental Electrification
A quiet campaign is underway to facilitate the use of plug-in solar batteries across Australia. Reports from Renew Economy have highlighted efforts by battery manufacturers and energy consultants to advocate for legislative changes that would allow renters and apartment residents to install these devices without requiring electricians or permissions, similar to practices in Europe and the US.
Energy Consumers Australia has been advocating for gas fee reforms to shield renters and low-income households from escalating costs as the shift away from gas gains momentum. The organisation has successfully influenced several rule changes through the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) to clarify responsibilities for cost coverage as gas consumption declines, urging governments to enhance protections for renters and others.
Rewiring Australia is actively submitting feedback to the NSW government regarding minimum energy efficiency standards for rental properties and is rallying community groups ahead of state elections to advocate for these essential rental standards. Additionally, the group is calling for federal funding to ensure equitable access to financing options and is engaged in research and pilot projects aimed at exploring portable technology solutions and affordable EV charging.
