Households Increasing Solar System Size for EVs and Battery Storage
As fuel and electricity prices continue to climb, a growing number of households are keen to either install solar systems or expand their existing setups, buoyed by the rising interest in home batteries and electric vehicles (EVs).
The recent Queensland Household Energy Survey, conducted by Ergon Energy Network, Energex, and Powerlink Queensland, engaged with 4,301 participants to explore energy-related behaviours and impressions across the state.
Shifting Attitudes Towards Energy Technologies
Once considered cutting-edge at the onset of the survey in 2009, various energy technologies have now become commonplace. With mounting cost-of-living challenges, these innovations are proving vital in helping households reduce expenses.
A notable rise was seen in the ownership of electric vehicles, increasing from 10 per cent in 2025 to 15 per cent in 2026, according to the latest findings.
Increased Interest in Electric Vehicles
Among participants lacking an electric vehicle, two-thirds expressed interest in purchasing a new vehicle within three years, contemplating either an EV or a hybrid model. This reflects a significant increase from 2025 figures, which recorded only 58 per cent of respondents considering such options.
South-East Queensland stands out with the highest EV ownership rate across the state at 16 per cent, while individuals aged 35 to 54 report the highest ownership at 22 per cent. This demographic also exhibits the greatest inclination towards EV purchases, with 71 per cent considering them.
Solar Energy Usage and Battery Storage
The percentage of households claiming solar PV system ownership remained stable at 47 per cent, a slight rise from 46 per cent in 2025. Meanwhile, the intention to upgrade existing systems or acquire new ones grew significantly, from 26 per cent to 34 per cent.
Furthermore, the ownership of battery storage among solar PV users surged dramatically, jumping from 21 per cent in 2025 to 35 per cent in 2026, reflecting the positive reception of the Australian Government’s Cheaper Home Batteries Programme.
Although the intent to purchase additional battery storage has softened somewhat, this is largely due to the significant number of consumers who have acquired battery systems over the past year.
The complete report is available for review at QHES.com.au.
