The NSW Government has extended its Solar for Apartment Residents (SoAR) Grant Program, giving strata schemes and apartment residents more time to access funding for shared rooftop solar. Applications are now open until 5 pm on 30 March 2026, or earlier if available funds are fully allocated. For many strata communities, this extension creates a valuable window to properly assess solar, build consensus, and apply with confidence.

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What is the SoAR grant?

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The SoAR Grant Program is designed to help apartment buildings and multi‑unit residential dwellings overcome the barriers that have traditionally made solar difficult. Unlike detached homes, strata buildings must navigate common property rules, shared benefits, and higher upfront costs. SoAR directly addresses these challenges by subsidising shared rooftop solar systems that benefit entire buildings.

Under the program, eligible strata schemes can receive up to 50% of eligible system and installation costs, capped at $150,000 per project. Across NSW, $25 million has been allocated to support uptake in apartments and multi‑unit dwellings.

Who can apply and which buildings are eligible?

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Applications can be made by NSW residential owners corporations or strata managing agents authorised by the owners corporation. Eligible buildings include apartment buildings and other multi‑unit residential developments that meet the program criteria and do not already have a shared solar system installed.

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If an application is successful, projects must be fully installed, operational, and all reporting completed by 30 October 2026. This makes early planning critical, as committees need time to obtain quotes, secure approvals, and coordinate installation.

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Why this matters for strata schemes

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Many apartment owners assume solar is not financially viable due to high upfront costs, limited roof access, or complexity around common property. The SoAR grant significantly changes this equation. By covering up to half of installation costs, shared solar becomes far more achievable and can deliver ongoing benefits across the building.

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Shared rooftop solar can help reduce common property electricity costs, provide fairer access to renewable energy for residents including renters, and improve the long‑term sustainability and appeal of a building. With energy prices remaining volatile, solar also offers greater cost stability over time.

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If your strata scheme has previously ruled out solar, this extension provides a second chance to revisit the business case without rushing decisions.

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How SES can help

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This is where Strata Energy Services (SES) can support your scheme. SES helps strata committees assess eligibility, coordinate solar tenders, and manage the grant process from application through to installation. By combining technical expertise with clear reporting and independent advice, SES helps ensure strata communities can take full advantage of the SoAR grant and move toward shared solar with confidence.

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