If you're renting or living in an apartment, the standard solar story doesn't apply to you. You can't just call an installer and book a job. But you're not out of options — they're just different options, and some are genuinely useful.
If You Rent a House
You need your landlord's permission to install solar. Full stop. But getting that permission is increasingly achievable, for two reasons:
First, solar adds value to a property. A landlord who understands this may be willing to install it — particularly if you can make the case that it improves the property's energy rating and makes it more attractive to future tenants.
Second, Queensland's Supercharged Solar for Renters scheme (until March 2026) offered landlords rebates of up to $3,500 per rental property. Even where that specific scheme has closed, the precedent of government support for landlord-installed solar is established. Check your state government's energy website for current landlord incentives.
When approaching your landlord, lead with property value and market appeal. A written proposal with a quote, payback analysis, and information about any available rebates gives them something concrete to consider. Some landlords simply don't know how accessible solar has become.
If You Live in an Apartment
Apartments are more complex because of the shared-roof model, but things have improved significantly:
Shared Solar Through the Strata Body
Common area solar (panels on the roof powering shared facilities like lifts, lighting, and air conditioning) is increasingly common. In NSW, owners corporations can now vote for sustainability upgrades with a simple majority (50%), reduced from the previous 75% threshold. Victoria has similar provisions.
NSW has the Solar for Apartment Residents (SoAR) grant program, which covers up to 50% of the cost of a shared solar PV system for eligible strata buildings (3–55 units). Victoria's Solar Homes program extends to multi-unit dwellings with shared common property. Check your state government's solar rebate pages for current programs.
If you're in an apartment and interested, the most effective thing to do is raise it at your next owners corporation meeting with some research on costs, grants, and savings for common area electricity. One motivated resident often gets the ball rolling.
Community Solar / Subscription Solar
An emerging option — particularly in states where rooftop installation isn't feasible — is community solar. You "subscribe" to a share of an off-site solar farm and receive credits against your electricity bill proportional to your share's output. It's not as economically powerful as rooftop solar but requires zero roof access and works for renters and apartments alike.
Availability varies by state and retailer — search "community solar [your state]" to see what's currently offered.
What About Balcony Solar?
Plug-in balcony solar panels are popular in Europe but are currently not legally approved in Australia under the relevant wiring standards. Don't be tempted by imports marketed at Australians — they're not compliant and could create a safety hazard or void your home insurance.
The Bottom Line for Renters and Apartment Residents
You have fewer options than homeowners, but you're not without them. Engage your landlord or owners corporation with a solid proposal. Check your state's specific programs for renters and apartments. Consider community solar if rooftop isn't an option. And if you eventually do own a home, solar is almost certainly on your list — when that day comes, upload your bill to GridBeater to get a proper estimate ready.
Solar ready when you are → Get your savings estimate at GridBeater