Melbourne-based Allume Energy has won the prestigious 2026 Australian Good Design Award of the Year for SolShare, a breakthrough device that allows solar energy from one rooftop system to be efficiently distributed to multiple apartments in a building.
- SolShare enables shared rooftop solar power for apartment buildings.
- The device won Australia's top design and sustainability awards.
- It simplifies solar access without costly multiple installations.
What happened
Allume Energy, a company based in Melbourne, has developed SolShare, a device that allows rooftop solar power to be distributed across an entire apartment building. This innovation overcomes the technical and financial challenges that have typically prevented apartment residents from benefiting from solar energy. At the 2026 Australian Good Design Awards held in Sydney, SolShare earned the top prize, the Award of the Year, as well as the sustainability award—outshining over a thousand competing entries.
Traditionally, shared buildings face complications such as costly multiple installations, complex wiring, and the need for individual inverters per unit, making rooftop solar inaccessible for many apartment dwellers. SolShare eliminates these obstacles by linking a single rooftop solar installation to multiple apartments, distributing power automatically and efficiently. This approach supports a more inclusive solar energy transition.
Why it feels good
The significance of SolShare lies in its ability to democratize access to clean energy by extending solar benefits to millions of people living in apartments. Dr. Brandon Gien, chair of Good Design Australia, praised the technology as an elegant solution to a complex problem, reflecting thoughtful design and impactful innovation. The device not only supports sustainability but also empowers communities to reduce their carbon footprint without needing to modify existing rooftops extensively.
The recognition of SolShare alongside historic Australian design achievements—such as the cochlear implant and Flow Hive—reinforces the device's potential to influence everyday lives while caring for the environment. This development supports a joyful and practical approach to accelerating the clean energy transition on a broad scale.
What to enjoy or watch next
Beyond SolShare, the Good Design Awards of 2026 highlighted other remarkable innovations that address sustainability and user experience. For example, FabPatch's rub-on fabric repair system offers a simple way to extend the life of clothing, while other winners like the No Wrap reusable pallet system and Holy Carp’s compostable packaging reflect growing trends in eco-conscious product design.
For those inspired by SolShare and its peers, keeping an eye on expanding rooftop solar accessibility and innovative sustainability solutions worldwide is encouraging. These technologies collectively point toward a future where cleaner living spaces, reduced waste, and practical environmental care become part of everyday life. Supporting and sharing news like this helps build momentum for affordable green solutions in urban environments.