What are your solar energy options when living in a rented property?

Ask Your Landlord About Solar Installation

So yes, even if you don’t own the roof you live under, you might know the person who does!

• Talk to your landlord about solar installation — there are great landlord solar incentives that make it easier and more rewarding for property owners.
• Installing solar panels for rental properties might help lower your energy bills and possibly boost the property’s value.
• You could offer to share the feed-in tariff savings or pay a little extra rent to make it worthwhile.

Explore Shared or Community Solar

Can’t get roof access? Don’t worry — there are still great options for you.

• Check out community solar for renters or shared solar programs that let you benefit from solar energy without installing panels yourself.
• These community solar gardens allow multiple households to share power from one large solar farm. You simply subscribe to a nearby project and receive credits on your energy bill for the power your share generates.
• It’s flexible too — if you move within the same area, your subscription can usually move with you.
• Because it’s a large shared system, everyone enjoys lower maintenance costs. Availability varies by state, so see what your options are here.
• Enova Community Energy (NSW) and CORE Geelong (VIC) are two great examples of community-led renewable initiatives in Australia. Enova was Australia’s first community-owned energy retailer, reinvesting profits back into local projects and pioneering “solar gardens” that let renters and apartment dwellers benefit from shared solar power. CORE Geelong, run by Geelong Sustainability, helps households and organisations invest collectively in solar systems, runs regional bulk-buy programs, and donates panels to community facilities — keeping the environmental and economic benefits local.

Try Portable Solar Panels

Portable solar panels for renters are a simple and flexible way to harness clean, renewable energy without needing to own a roof — and the best part is, they’re yours for life.

• These portable systems typically range from 200W to 1 kW and are designed for easy setup.
• They’re perfect for balconies, courtyards, or even weekend getaways.
• Use them to power small appliances, charge your devices, or reduce your energy use at home.
• Affordable, durable, and super easy to install, they’re a great way to go solar on your own terms.
• A 500W portable system could run a laptop, Wi-Fi router and lighting for several hours each evening. As well as fridges, lights and camping gear, depending on wattage.

Look Into Solar Leasing or PPA Options

If buying solar panels isn’t possible right now, solar leasing might be a great alternative.

• Solar leasing or Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) let you enjoy solar power for renters by paying only for the energy your system produces, not for the panels themselves.
• There are no big upfront costs — just a predictable monthly payment. It’s perfect for renters who want to harness renewable energy with flexibility and without ownership.
• Some providers offer affordable solar plans to best suit renters — landlords install panels and tenants pay only for the solar power used.  
• Just be sure to read the fine print and check the contract terms, as some PPAs can lock you in for several years even if you move or your energy needs change.

Renters can access solar too — it’s all about choosing the right path. Whether it’s community solar, portable panels, or a leasing option, there’s a solution for every space and budget. Start by reviewing your energy use or having a chat with your landlord to see which solar option could work best for your home.

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