At Hielscher Electrical, we’ve been helping North Queenslanders harness the power of the sun for years. Now, with the Queensland Government’s new Supercharged Solar for Renters program, there’s an exciting opportunity to extend those benefits to a group that has often been left behind — renters.

The Queensland Government has launched a $26 million solar rebate initiative aimed specifically at encouraging landlords to install solar panels on rental properties. Under the scheme, landlords can receive up to $3,500 towards the cost of installing rooftop solar. This move could help tenants save up to $700 a year on electricity bills — and at a time when cost-of-living pressures are top of mind for many Cairns families, those savings could make a real difference.

While the cost of living in Cairns is generally more affordable compared to other parts of Australia — with lower childcare fees and highly regarded private schools offering excellent education at a reasonable cost — every bit of household savings still matters. We’re already seeing the positive impact of solar in our community, with local childcare centres benefiting from lower energy bills thanks to recent installations by our team.

Read more about one of our recent childcare centre solar projects here

The team and I at Hielscher Electrical see this program as a genuine win-win for Cairns landlords and tenants alike. Property owners can enhance the value and appeal of their investment properties in Cairns, while tenants gain access to cheaper, cleaner energy — a luxury that’s been out of reach for many Far North Queensland renters for too long.

Why This QLD Solar Rebate Matters

Until now, solar energy uptake has been largely limited to owner-occupiers. Landlords often had little incentive to invest in solar panels because they didn’t directly benefit from the lower power bills. Meanwhile, Cairns renters — who make up over a third of all Far North Queensland households — were left out entirely.

The Supercharged Solar for Renters program aims to change that. It recognises that renewable energy should be accessible to everyone, not just homeowners. By reducing the upfront costs for landlords and delivering ongoing savings for tenants, it bridges a major gap in Queensland’s solar journey.

For landlords, it’s not just about doing the right thing — it’s a smart financial move. Solar panels can increase the capital value of a property and make it more attractive in a competitive rental market. With electricity prices on the rise, properties fitted with solar will stand out to tenants keen to lower their living expenses.

How Hielscher Electrical Can Help You Maximise the Solar Rebate for Landlords

If you’re a landlord or a property manager in Cairns, now is the perfect time to explore solar installation options. At Hielscher Electrical, we make the process smooth and stress-free.

Here’s how we can help:

• Personalised advice: We’ll assess your rental property and recommend the right solar system based on your unique needs and budget.
• Expert installation: Our qualified team ensures your system is installed to the highest standards of safety, performance, and compliance.
• Rebate guidance: We’ll walk you through the application process to secure your $3,500 rebate efficiently.
• Ongoing support: We provide ongoing maintenance and aftercare, ensuring your investment continues to deliver value year after year.

When you choose a local, trusted installer like Hielscher Electrical, you’re not just getting quality workmanship — you’re partnering with a team that’s been proudly supporting Far North Queensland communities for over a decade.

Key Information for Cairns Landlords

Thinking of applying? Here’s what you need to know:

• The property must be a rental property located in Queensland.
• You must own the property and install an eligible rooftop solar PV system.
• Applications are expected to open later this year, so it’s smart to start planning now.
• Solar installation must meet government standards and be completed by a SAA-accredited solar installer — a standard myself and my team at Hielscher Electrical proudly meets.

Getting in early is crucial. Once the program officially launches, demand for qualified installers is expected to spike. Early action can mean faster approval and a quicker path to savings for your tenants.

Making Solar Accessible to All Cairns Locals

At Hielscher Electrical, we believe that sustainable, affordable energy should be available to everyone — not just homeowners. This rebate program marks an important step towards levelling the playing field for renters and expanding access to clean energy across Queensland.

Whether you’re a landlord keen to add value to your investment or a tenant ready to spark the conversation with your property manager, now’s the time to act. Together, we can help make solar energy a part of more homes across Cairns and beyond.

Contact us today to find out how we can help you take advantage of the Supercharged Solar for Renters program. Let’s power your rental property with clean, reliable solar energy — and make the most of this fantastic new opportunity.