The ACT Council of Social Service (ACTCOSS) has today welcomed the expansion of the Home Energy Support Program to include new rebates of up to $2,500 for people on low incomes to purchase efficient electric appliances.
The announcement means that eligible households can now access a $2,500 rebate to help reduce upfront costs to purchase reverse cycle heating and cooling systems, hot water heat pumps and electric cooktops/ovens through the Home Energy Support Program. This is in addition to a rebate of up to $2,500 for the installation of rooftop solar already available through the same program.
ACTCOSS CEO, Dr Emma Campbell said: “ACTCOSS strongly supports ACT Government policies targeted toward low-income households to improve energy efficiency and mitigate climate change.
“Canberrans who face disadvantage are disproportionately impacted by climate change.
“Canberrans on low incomes also spend a much greater proportion of their incomes on energy bills, making it even more critical that they are prioritised for support to access solar and energy efficient appliances and home systems. People on low incomes are also most likely to be impacted by any cost increases associated with the transition to net zero emissions
“While these two rebates offer some support for low-incomes households, access to rooftop solar and efficient electrical appliances and systems will be greatly improved if eligible households are allowed to access the total amount towards either solar or appliances. A higher total rebate amount will further help people on low incomes to manage the high upfront costs faced by households who wish to improve their energy efficiency, cut bills and transition to net zero emissions.
“ACTCOSS will continue to work with the ACT Government to further expand the Home Energy Support Program to help other members of the community on low incomes and to ensure that ongoing climate change policy is targeted at sections of the housing market where people on low incomes are overrepresented such as rental properties and social housing,” Dr Campbell said.
To find out further information on the Home Energy Support Program and if you are eligible, visit the Everyday climate choices website.
