Midday Power Plan Has Catch

Wyndham households are being promised cheaper power in the middle of the day under a new state government plan, but how much locals actually save may depend on whether they are home to use it and whether they already have solar.

The Midday Power Saver program is set to begin on 1 October 2026, with energy retailers required to offer a discounted tariff for a three-hour window during the day that households can choose to opt into.

The government says households could save up to $300 a year, or up to $1,070 for those with solar panels and batteries.

However, the higher-end savings rely on already having solar and storage, meaning households without it are likely to see smaller reductions.

Around 2.6 million Victorian households will be eligible, including across Wyndham, but the program is not automatic and residents will need to sign up through their energy provider.

The plan is designed to shift electricity use into the middle of the day, when solar generation is high and wholesale prices are lower.

That could work for people working from home or those able to run appliances during the day, but may be less practical for commuters who are out of the house for most of the three-hour window.

Key details, including exactly when the three-hour period will apply and how much cheaper the electricity will be, have not yet been released and are expected in May.

While the policy is aimed at lowering power bills, its impact in Wyndham will likely vary depending on solar uptake and household routines.

Households without solar, or those unable to use power during the day, may see limited benefit compared to those already generating and storing their own electricity.

The program also aims to reduce pressure on the grid during peak evening periods, but how much that translates into real savings locally will depend on how many Wyndham residents can realistically shift their energy use into the middle of the day.