Updated in January 2026
The Australian energy landscape is shifting faster than ever as we move into a pivotal year. Renewable Energy Updates: All the Changes Coming to Australia in 2026 highlight a significant transition toward household self-sufficiency and grid stability. For homeowners and businesses, these updates mean new opportunities to save, but they also signal a reduction in some long-standing incentives.
Staying ahead of these changes is essential for maximising your return on investment. Whether you are looking at solar panels, home batteries, or electric vehicle (EV) charging, 2026 will be a year of major regulatory and financial adjustments nationwide.
Contact us today for up to 3 FREE quotations from residential or commercial solar firms we’ve pre-qualified and vetted for their track record of delivering Australia’s best home or business solar systems. Energy Matters has been recognised for our continued excellence in the Australian solar industry. We provide our customers with high-quality resources, insight, and access to reputable solar quotes.
Federal updates and changes in 2026
At the national level, the federal government is focusing heavily on firming the grid. The most significant of the Renewable Energy Updates: All the Changes Coming to Australia in 2026 is the evolution of the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).
The 2026 solar rebate reduction
The federal “solar rebate” (STCs) is designed to reduce every year on January 1st until it phases out in 2030. On January 1, 2026, the deeming period for these certificates drops from six years to five. This means the upfront discount on a solar system will be roughly 15-20% lower than in previous years.
The expansion of the Cheaper Home Batteries Program
While solar rebates are shrinking, battery incentives are expanding. The federal government has committed billions to the Cheaper Home Batteries Program. Starting May 1, 2026, the rebate structure will shift to a tiered system based on usable capacity. This ensures that smaller, more affordable batteries remain accessible for everyday households.
Use Energy Matters’ easy-to-use solar power and battery storage calculator to determine the size of your solar system with storage! Our solar calculator will generate performance information and potential savings.
We can send this information to 3 of our pre-vetted and trusted local installers in your area to receive obligation-free solar quotes and take the first step towards true energy independence!
Solar Sharer – Free Midday Power
Starting in July 2026, the Solar Sharer initiative requires retailers to offer three hours of free solar electricity during peak daytime generation through the Default Market Offer. This is being rolled out first to DMO states, including NSW and South Australia and is likely to expand nationally by 2027.
Why this matters: These federal moves aim to reduce energy bills, shift demand to solar-rich daytime hours, and encourage the adoption of household batteries to support energy independence.
News South Wales (NSW) updates in 2026
New South Wales (NSW) continues to support solar adoption through a mix of federal STCs and state-based measures.
New South Wales is accelerating its “Rewiring the Nation” partnership with the federal government. By 2026, many of the infrastructure projects agreed upon in 2025 will be entering peak construction phases. The state is focusing on replacing aging coal-fired power with massive renewable energy zones.
For residents, the Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS) continues to evolve. In 2026, incentives for “smart” appliances and battery systems that participate in Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) are expected to increase. This allows NSW households to get paid for helping the grid during peak summer heatwaves.
- Solar Sharer rollout begins in NSW in July 2026, providing households with free daily solar power through a smart meter.
- Feed-in tariffs allow solar owners to earn credits for excess electricity exported to the grid, though rates vary by provider.
- Combining federal and NSW incentives can significantly reduce upfront costs for solar + batteries.
10th International Conference on Sustainable Energy Engineering (ICSEE 2026)
16–18 January 2026 | University of Technology Sydney, NSW
Sustainable energy engineering is the main topic of this scholarly conference. The University of Technology Sydney, the University of Tasmania, and the University of Melbourne are co-sponsors.
Victoria (VIC) updates in 2026
Victoria (VIC) continues to lead with some of the most ambitious clean energy targets in the country. Renewable energy updates for Australia 2026, with a VIC focus on electrification and household upgrades.
Victoria’s 2026 priorities
- Expansion of rooftop solar and battery programs
- Continued transition away from gas
- Support for all-electric homes
- Investment in offshore wind projects
Victoria remains a leader in household electrification. A major rule change is approaching: Victoria’s 2027 hot water rule. This policy will eventually restrict the installation of new gas hot water systems.
In 2026, the Solar Victoria rebates will prioritise heat pump hot water systems and batteries. The state is also pushing for offshore wind, with major auctions in early 2026 expected to create thousands of new jobs and help make the Victorian grid more stable.
Offshore wind is another major highlight for Victoria in 2026. Following successful auctions, several large-scale projects are entering the final stages of feasibility and environmental approval. These wind farms are expected to provide a consistent, reliable power source for the state’s heavy industries.
Sustainability Business Live (Australia)
3 & 4 June 2026 | Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre | Organiser: Stirling Media
In June 2026, Melbourne will welcome SBLive2026, the biggest sustainability conference and trade expo in Australia. More than 200 speakers, 120 exhibitors, and 3000 attendees
South Australia (SA) updates in 2025
South Australia (SA) remains a global leader in renewable energy adoption. By 2026, SA is expected to generate most of its electricity from renewables.
SA key renewable energy updates
- Solar Sharer free power is included in the Solar Sharer scheme from July 2026, covering SA.
- The Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme (REPS) helps households lower energy costs and transition to cleaner systems
- Increased grid-scale battery storage
- Strong support for virtual power plants (VPPs)
- Continued solar leadership per capita
- Advanced grid management systems
South Australia continues to lead the world, with forecasts suggesting it could reach 85% of its energy from renewables by mid-2026. The state’s aspiration is to hit 100% net renewable electricity by 2027. This year, the focus is on the Eyre Peninsula Gateway hydrogen project and large-scale electrolyser installations.
Operational changes are also coming to the SA grid to handle “negative prices” during sunny days. The state is incentivising “flexible exports,” where smart inverters allow households to export more power when the grid is stable. This maximises the return on investment for residents with rooftop solar and smart batteries.
The EnergyConnect transmission line between NSW and SA is also expected to reach critical milestones in 2026. This link will allow South Australia to export its excess wind and solar energy more efficiently. It also provides a safety net, ensuring a reliable power supply during periods of low local generation.
Additionally, the SA Virtual Power Plant (VPP) aims to reach its goal of 50,000 connected homes by the end of 2026.
Australia International Renewable Energy Conference (AUSIREC) 2026
April 2026 (exact dates TBC) | Location: South Australia. An annual gathering of world leaders to talk about strategies and advancements in renewable energy.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT) updates in 2026
Renewable energy updates for Australia 2026: in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), focus on refinement, resilience, and electrification. The ACT continues to set the benchmark for clean energy policy across Australia.
ACT energy focus areas
- Household battery uptake
- Smart energy management systems
- Electric vehicle integration
- Grid resilience upgrades
In 2026, the territory is focusing on the “Big Canberra Battery” ecosystem. This involves a network of neighbourhood-scale batteries designed to support the local distribution network.
Canberra is also pushing ahead with its plan to phase out fossil-fuel gas by 2045. New programs starting in 2026 offer zero-interest loans for low-income households to switch from gas to electric appliances. This makes the ACT a model for urban energy transitions worldwide.
In 2026, the territory is focusing on the “Big Canberra Battery” ecosystem. This involves a network of neighbourhood-scale batteries designed to support the local distribution network.
Canberra is also pushing ahead with its plan to phase out fossil-fuel gas by 2045. New programs starting in 2026 offer zero-interest loans for low-income households to switch from gas to electric appliances. This makes the ACT a model for urban energy transitions worldwide. The territory is also leading the way in vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology.
By 2026, more Canberra residents will be able to use their EVs as “batteries on wheels” to power their homes during the night.
Powering up your EV with solar
If you’re thinking of buying an EV, adding an EV charger to your solar system is a smart way to “fuel” your car with clean, renewable energy.
Queensland (QLD) updates in 2026
Queensland (QLD) is undergoing a major policy shift following the implementation of the new Energy Roadmap. Unlike previous years, the state has moved away from legislated percentage targets to focus on “economics over ideology.” This includes extending the life of state-owned coal assets until 2046 to ensure grid reliability.
Despite its focus on coal, the “CopperString 2032” project is expected to reach major milestones in late 2026. Construction on the Eastern Link, a 500kV line from Townsville to Hughenden, is officially ramping up. This “transmission highway” is essential for connecting the North West Minerals Province to the national grid.
For households, the QLD Battery Booster program continues to see high demand in 2026. However, new federal rules starting May 1 mean rebates for larger batteries (over 28kWh) will drop significantly. If you are a Queenslander looking for large-scale storage, you should finalise your installation early in the year.
Solar & Storage Live Queensland 2026
18–19 March 2026 | Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, QLD
The biggest gathering for experts in solar, storage, and renewable energy in Australia. It offers networking opportunities, keynote speakers, and exhibitions.
Western Australia (WA) updates in 2026
Western Australia (WA) is following its Distributed Energy Resources (DER) Roadmap. Because WA’s grid is isolated, managing rooftop solar is a high priority. In 2026, the state will implement new “Emergency Solar Management” rules for all new systems.
The WA government is also fast-tracking the retirement of state-owned coal stations. This makes 2026 a critical year for WA businesses to switch to commercial solar to avoid the volatility of a changing energy market.
Western Australia is introducing major changes to connection rules on May 1, 2026. These rules apply to the South West Interconnected System (SWIS) and will permit more flexibility for solar and battery designs. Systems up to 30 kVA will now be easier to integrate into Virtual Power Plants (VPPs).
In the Pilbara, the Australian Renewable Energy Hub (AREH) is accelerating with new federal funding. This 26 GW project aims to integrate solar, wind, and green hydrogen to decarbonise the mining sector. By late 2026, the first “Green Energy Parks” are expected to finalise terms with industrial partners.
WA is also investing millions into Traditional Owner-led solar projects. This ensures that the benefits of the renewable transition are shared with local Indigenous communities. These projects provide training, employment, and long-term income for regional areas.
World Renewable Energy Congress (WREC 2026)
8–13 February 2026 | Murdoch University, Perth, WA
An international gathering of business, academia, and decision-makers to talk about renewable energy solutions. Keynote addresses, technical tours, and networking opportunities are among the features.
Energy Exchange Australia (EXA) 2026
10–12 March 2026 | Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, WA
Global energy executives gather at this premier event to discuss opportunities and innovations in the evolving energy sector.
Tasmania (TAS) updates in 2026
Tasmania (TAS) remains Australia’s renewable powerhouse. Renewable energy updates Australia 2026 in TAS build on existing hydro and wind strengths.
Tasmania’s Clean Energy Direction
- Expansion of renewable exports
- Battery of the Nation projects
- Grid upgrades to support mainland supply
- Continued renewable dominance
Tasmania is using 2026 as a landmark year for the Marinus Link project. This subsea cable is essential for turning Tasmania into the “Battery of the Nation.” It allows the state to store excess energy from the mainland and release it when needed through its hydro dams.
Hydro Tasmania is also opening the door to 1,500 GWh of new wind and solar projects this year. New offtake agreements are being signed to provide developers with the financial certainty they need. This diversification ensures the state can meet growing energy demands from new electric-intensive industries.
Northern Territory (NT) updates in 2026
The Northern Territory (NT) is refocusing on its 50% renewable energy target for 2030. In 2026, significant attention is being paid to the Darwin-Katherine Interconnected System. New solar-plus-storage projects are being fast-tracked to reduce the territory’s reliance on expensive gas generation.
A major priority for 2026 is protecting residents from extreme heat. The NT is implementing new “7-star” energy-efficiency standards for all new housing. There are also calls to enact a National Adaptation Plan to prevent electricity disconnections during 40-degree heatwaves.
Sources: Australian Government: Department of Climate, Energy, the Environment and Water – NT | TAS | WA | ACT | SA | QLD | Victoria State Government – Energy, Environment and Climate Action
Australian Energy & Battery Storage Conference
March 2026 (exact dates TBC) | Location: To be announced
Focuses on how developments in pumped-hydro projects, community storage, and large-scale batteries are influencing Australia’s sustainable energy future.
Why you should act: Start saving NOW rather than later
As these Renewable Energy Updates: All the Changes Coming to Australia in 2026 show, the cost of delaying solar installation is rising. While technology is improving, the reduction in federal subsidies means your out-of-pocket costs will likely increase if you wait until next year.
Installing a system now allows you to benefit from the current 6-year deeming period. It also ensures you are ready for the new battery incentives launching mid-year. You can protect your household from price hikes and contribute to a cleaner Australian future.
Ready to save? Energy Matters can help you navigate these complex changes and guide you toward a sustainable and affordable energy future.
