The blunt truth: if you're renting a standard residential property, you can't install solar yourself without your landlord's consent. But that doesn't mean solar is out of reach — there are real options worth exploring.
Option 1: Ask Your Landlord
It's more likely to work than you'd think. Here's why landlords are increasingly saying yes:
Solar increases the property's value
Multiple studies show solar-equipped homes sell for a premium (typically 3–5% more) and rent faster. Many landlords who've installed solar report lower vacancy rates because solar is a desirable feature for tenants, particularly as electricity prices rise.
Landlord-owned solar earns rental income
A landlord who installs solar and passes the feed-in tariff earnings or discounted electricity to tenants is providing a genuine benefit while retaining an asset that improves over the property's value.
How to make the pitch
Don't just ask. Come with numbers. Tell your landlord what the electricity bill looks like, what solar would likely cost for this property, and what the payback period is. Offer to stay longer (if you genuinely want to) as a commitment that makes the investment worthwhile. Landlords respond well to specific proposals, not vague requests.
Option 2: Renter-Specific Solar Programs
Several states have programs specifically designed for renters:
Victoria — Solar for Renters
Through the Victorian Government's Solar Homes program, eligible landlords receive a rebate to install solar, with the condition that they pass the electricity savings on to tenants. Tenants in eligible properties can also apply. The program has eligibility requirements — check the current status at solar.vic.gov.au.
ACT — Sustainable Household Scheme
The ACT has one of Australia's most renter-friendly energy programs. Eligible renters may qualify for interest-free loans for solar and batteries, sometimes structured to work with landlord agreement. Check actsustainability.org.au.
Other states
QLD, NSW, SA, and WA have varying programs that include some renter provisions. Check your state government's energy website for current programs — these change frequently.
Option 3: Community Solar
Community solar projects allow people — including renters — to subscribe to a share of a larger solar installation (often on commercial rooftops or solar farms) and receive credits on their electricity bill. You don't need a roof, you don't need a landlord's permission.
This is still a developing market in Australia, but providers like Repower Shoalhaven and various community energy groups operate these models. The economics are improving as the sector grows.
Option 4: Portable and Balcony Solar
Small plug-in solar panels (sometimes called "balcony solar" or "plug-in solar") can be connected to a standard power point and offset some of your electricity usage. The output is limited — typically 300–600W per panel — and the savings modest, but it requires no landlord approval and no installation.
This is more common in Europe where regulations are clearer. In Australia, check with your local network operator about plug-in solar rules before buying.
Know Your Rights as a Tenant
Across most Australian states, landlords cannot unreasonably refuse requests for energy efficiency improvements, including solar. What counts as "unreasonable" is evolving in law. Victoria, in particular, has been strengthening tenant rights around this.
The Tenants Union in your state can give you up-to-date advice on your legal rights around solar and energy efficiency improvements. It's worth a call or check of their website before approaching your landlord.
If You Own Your Home
If you're an owner-occupier reading this, solar is one of the best investments you can make for your home. Upload your bill to GridBeater and we'll show you exactly what it's worth for your situation.
See what solar saves you → Upload your bill free at GridBeater