It’s no secret that solar power is booming in Australia, but renters are often left out of the equation. With around one-third of Aussies living in rented properties, a major question remains: how can they access the benefits of solar energy? As a renter, this scenario is all too familiar. You’re environmentally conscious and eager to reduce your carbon footprint, but the path to solar energy seems blocked by tenancy agreements and landlord approvals. Is it truly impossible for renters to benefit from it?
What renters struggle with
While the allure of solar power is strong, renters face a unique set of challenges that usually prevent them from accessing its benefits. These challenges can be broadly categorised into issues of property rights, financial constraints, and a general lack of information and awareness.
Limited property rights
Perhaps the most significant challenge is the fact that renters don’t own the property they live in. This lack of ownership translates to limited control over property modifications, including solar panel installation.
Installing a solar system typically requires explicit permission from the landlord. Many landlords are hesitant to grant such permission due to concerns about potential damage to the property, the cost of reinstating the roof upon the tenant’s departure, and the perceived complexity of managing solar installations.
Standard tenancy agreements rarely address solar installations, creating a legal grey area. This lack of clarity can lead to disputes and further discourage renters from pursuing solar options. And even if a landlord grants permission, renters may be held responsible for the costs of removing the solar system and restoring the property to its original condition at the end of their tenancy. While an unlikely scenario, this potential financial burden can be a major deterrent.
Financial barriers
The upfront costs that come with buying and installing solar system can be significant, especially for many renters. Even smaller, renter-friendly solar solutions may need a considerable initial investment, which may be difficult for renters to afford. Also given the usually short-term nature of rental agreements, renters face uncertainty about their return on investment. They may not stay in the property long enough to recoup the initial costs of a solar system through reduced electricity bills.
Unlike homeowners, renters typically have limited access to financing options specifically designed for solar installations. This lack of financial support further restricts their ability to invest in solar energy.
Awareness and information gap
A lot of renters are simply unaware of the available options for accessing solar power. This is because information about renter-friendly solar solutions are often not readily available or easily accessible. Even the information available can get complicated because of the technical aspects mixed with legal and financial considerations. There is also a lack of promotion and awareness campaigns targeting renters specifically, which leaves many unaware of their options.
Exploring solar system solutions for Aussies
Despite the challenges, there are several potential avenues for renters in Australia to access and benefit from solar energy. These range from portable systems to community initiatives and improved landlord-tenant agreements.
· Portable solar panels: These are lightweight, foldable panels that can be used to charge small devices, batteries, and even power small appliances. While their energy output is limited, they provide a convenient way to reduce reliance on grid electricity for basic needs.
· Small-scale rooftop systems: Some companies provide solar panel kits for temporary installation on rooftops or balconies. These can generate more power than portable panels but require careful consideration of safety landlord approval. It’s important to ensure any installation is reversible and does not damage the property.
· Community solar programs: Renters can subscribe to a share of community solar farm, receiving credits on their electricity bills based on the energy generated by their share. There are also some community solar projects provide opportunities for partial ownership, allowing renters to invest in a portion of the solar installation.
· Energy plans: Carbon neutral or GreenPower energy plans are also possible solutions for renters. Carbon-neutral energy plans offset the emissions generated from your electricity usage. Renters can access this by buying carbon offset units or emission reduction certificates equivalent to their energy usage emissions. On the other hand, GreenPower allows renters to elect a percentage of their power usage that they would like their retailer to match with credits from a government-funded renewable energy generator. However, GreenPower may come at an additional charge.
How to install solar as renter
If you would like to go down the path of installing solar on the property you are renting, there are some important steps involved.
- Communicate with your landlord: You must have the approval of your landlord to install solar on your rented property. Contact your property manager or the landlord to seek the approval in writing. The approval must outline who will be responsible for the system and installation costs, the maintenance of the system, who will receive the feed-in tariff, and what happens at the end-of-lease.
- Completion of paperwork: Depending on where you live, your landlord may be required to complete paperwork for rebates and incentives. Your solar installer will provide you with the paperwork required and they may need to liaise with the landlord themselves to begin the installation process.
- Ending your lease: If you agreed to remove the solar at the end of your lease, this must be arranged with your original installer or with a licensed electrician. If the solar system remains at the property, no further action is required. When you move home and disconnect your electricity, the future tenant will be able to access the solar via their chosen retailer.
Accessing solar as a renter presents its challenges. But it’s far from an impossible mission. The good news is that the landscape is evolving, with innovative solutions and growing support paving the way for a more inclusive solar future. While the ideal scenario of widespread solar access for renters may still be on the horizon, the momentum is building. By actively seeking information, engaging with landlords, and advocating for supportive policies, renters can play an important role in shaping a more sustainable and equitable energy future for all Australians.
