Solar for Apartment Residents (SoAR): what strata need to know

About the program

The Solar for Apartment Residents (SoAR) Grant Program is a new initiative from the NSW Government designed to help apartment owners and strata schemes access shared solar power systems. For years, many residents in multi‑unit dwellings have missed out on the benefits of solar due to technical challenges, high upfront costs, or governance barriers. The SoAR program aims to change that by offering financial support and simpler pathways for strata communities. 

What the grant offers 

• Funding covers up to 50% of the total cost of installing a shared rooftop solar PV system. 

• Each building may receive up to $150,000 in support. 

• The total program budget is $25 million across NSW. 

• Eligible buildings are strata‑titled dwellings with 3 to 55 residential lots that have not installed shared solar within the last 10 years. 

• Applications can only be submitted by Owners Corporations or strata managers under NSW legislation. Individual residents need authorisation from their committee. 

Timeframes and eligible work 

Applications opened on 28 February 2025 and will close on 1 December 2025, or earlier if the funding pool is exhausted. All projects must begin promptly and be fully completed by 31 March 2026. The grant covers the cost of solar panels, inverters, mounting equipment, wiring, and labour. In some cases, enabling works such as minor roof upgrades or meter board adjustments may also be included within limited cost thresholds. These strict timeframes mean that strata committees and managers need to plan early to secure funding and complete installations on schedule. 

Why this matters

SoAR represents a significant opportunity for strata communities. It helps reduce energy bills for owners and tenants, lowers greenhouse gas emissions, and makes strata properties more attractive to buyers and renters who value sustainability. In a time of volatile energy prices, access to solar also provides greater cost stability. 

However, the program is not without challenges. Strata schemes must still secure owner approval, navigate technical feasibility issues, and ensure long‑term maintenance of new systems. For many committees, the grant application process itself can feel complex and resource‑intensive. 

How SES can help

This is where Strata Energy Services (SES) comes in. SES helps strata schemes cut through the complexity by assessing eligibility, preparing tender‑grade quotes, and managing the application process from start to finish. They also ensure that projects meet compliance requirements and continue to deliver savings well beyond installation. With SES’s expertise, strata buildings can access the SoAR program with confidence and achieve the full benefits of shared solar.