Midday Power Saver
From 1 October 2026, eligible Victorian households can access free electricity from 11am to 2pm every day through the Victorian Government's Midday Power Saver program.
The program aims to help households reduce their electricity bills while easing pressure on the electricity grid during peak demand periods, such as in the evening. It does this by encouraging people to use more electricity in the middle of the day when demand on the grid is lower.
Who can access it?
The Midday Power Saver is available to households with a smart meter, which is a digital electricity meter that records when and how much electricity your household uses throughout the day. Most Victorian homes already have one. You likely have a smart meter if your electricity bill shows usage at different times of the day, such as peak, off-peak or time-of-use periods. If you're unsure, contact your electricity retailer to confirm.
The offer is opt-in, and most electricity retailers will be required to make it available to eligible customers.
How do I sign up?
From 1 October 2026, contact your electricity retailer to find out whether the Midday Power Saver is available on your plan and whether it's the right option for your household.
Could I save money?
Yes, if your household can shift some of its electricity use into the free 11am to 2pm period.
Estimated annual savings range from $149 to $428, depending on household circumstances and how much electricity use can be moved into the free period. Households with an electric vehicle (EV) may save even more by charging their vehicle during the free-power window.
Is it right for everyone?
No. While electricity will be free between 11am and 2pm, electricity rates outside these hours may be slightly higher under the Midday Power Saver plan. If you cannot regularly move some of your energy use into the free period, you may see little benefit and could potentially pay more overall.
Before signing up, consider whether your household can shift some of its everyday electricity use to the middle of the day.
Tips to maximise your savings
You will benefit most from the program if you:
- Work from home regularly and can run high-energy appliances around midday
- Have an electric vehicle that can be charged during the day
- Use appliances with timer settings
Try running higher-energy appliances between 11am and 2pm, such as:
- Hot water heat pumps
- Dishwashers
- Washing machines
- Clothes dryers
- Air conditioners
- Electric heating
- EV chargers
If you're not home during the day, using appliance timers can help you take advantage of the free electricity period.
Learn more about the Midday Power Saver.