A new energy scheme gives Australians three hours of free power a day – but there could be an expensive catch

Solar Sharer program was designed for homes without rooftop solar, but observers say supply and peak use charges are ‘much higher’ Sign up for climate and environment editor Adam Morton’s free Clear Air newsletter here Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates A government energy deal that promised three free hours of power to houses without solar panels carries higher charges that make it an expensive option for many households, observers say. Solar Sharer was switched on in July, with customers in Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia able to opt in to the plan, which includes three free hours of electricity in the middle of day. Announcing the scheme last year the energy minister, Chris Bowen, said the regulated energy deal would unlock the benefits of cheap and plentiful renewable energy for more households, including those without solar panels or a battery. It was a regulated offer, he said, overseen by the Australian Energy Regulator to “ensure there’s no price gouging going on, it’s in the best interests of the consumers”. However, Gavin Gilchrist, a project manager at Inner West Community Energy, said in his part of Sydney, the supply an