Many Australians can get three free hours of power from today. Here’s how

The energy minister, Chris Bowen, says the government-regulated scheme is a way for more households to benefit from solar without needing panels on their own roofs. Photograph: AAP

Households in three states can choose an electricity plan with three free hours of power a day, as Solar Sharer switches on from Wednesday.

Nearly half of Australians surveyed have expressed interest in the government-regulated scheme, but experts say it may not work for everyone.