To ensure a just transition, the ACT Government has today launched the first stage of its Home Energy Support Program, which will assist low-income homeowners to save on energy bills, increase home comfort, and help address climate change.
The Home Energy Support Program is a $50 million commitment over four years to improve building efficiency and sustainability for social and public housing, low-income owner occupiers and low performing rental properties.
The $3.1million first stage of the program, commencing today, will provide rebates of up to $2,500 to eligible lower income homeowners to install rooftop solar.
By mid-2022, the program will expand to include an additional rebate of up to $2,500 for other energy efficient products, including heating and cooling systems, insulation, and hot water heat pumps.
“One of the goals of our climate action strategy is to ensure that all Canberra households benefit from a net zero emissions future – not just those that can afford it,” ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said.
“This program provides real and ongoing cost of living support to Canberrans who need it most,” Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction Shane Rattenbury said.
“Lower-income households tend to spend a higher proportion of their income on energy and feel the impacts of energy price increases rises the most, but these households often cannot afford to purchase energy efficient measures that will help them lower their costs. We want to ensure all households share the benefits of the shift to lower emissions homes.
“The Home Energy Support Program builds on the success of the previous Solar for Low Income program which supported over 670 households. On average, these households saved over $1,000 on their energy bill per year.
“The program offers financial support to those in our community who need it most, including Pensioner Concession Card or Department of Veteran Affairs Gold Card holders.
“In addition to the solar rebate in the first stage of this program, participants also have the option to apply for a no interest loan as part of the Sustainable Household Scheme if they need further support to cover the upfront costs of installation.
“The Government’s energy and climate change programs are designed to ensure a ‘just transition’, supporting all ACT resident to have a more comfortable, affordable, and energy efficient home. Later this year, we will also begin implementing minimum rental efficiency standards, which will assist renters in Canberra with their comfort and costs.
“The Home Energy Support Program will contribute to achieving a sustainable, resilient future for the ACT as we work towards our target of net zero emissions by 2045.”
This initiative progresses a commitment of the Parliamentary Agreement of the 10th Legislative Assembly by the ACT Labor-Greens Government.
