Australian Greens: More energy efficiency rebates available for low-income households

To support low-income homeowners in the ACT to make the switch to electric, the ACT Government has today announced the expansion of the Home Energy Support Program to include new rebates of up to $2,500 for efficient electric appliances.

Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction Shane Rattenbury said the expansion of the new products will support low-income households to transition away from fossil-fuel gas use at a time that is right for them.

“We’ve announced our intention to electrify our city and transition away from the use of fossil-fuel gas by 2045. A critical part of this transition is to make sure we have a just transition by providing support to those who can least afford to make the switch,” Minister Rattenbury said.

“Eligible households can now access a $2,500 rebate to help reduce their upfront cost 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 program.

“Households may also be able to access the Sustainable Household Scheme to cover remaining costs. The Scheme offers zero interest loans of up to $15,000 for solar, efficient electric heating and hot water and other products.

“The transition away from fossil-fuel gas to electric will help the community save on energy bills, increase home comfort, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Home Energy Support Program allowing households to share the benefits of a shift to lower emissions homes as we work towards our target of net zero emissions by 2045.”

Eligible homeowners who can apply for a rebate include Pension Concession Card holders and Department of Veteran Affairs Gold Card holders.

The Home Energy Support Program is a $50 million government commitment over four years to improve building efficiency and sustainability for social and public housing, low-income owner occupiers and low performing rental properties.

For more information about the program and to check your eligibility, including the recently released Gas Transition Pathway, visit the Everyday Climate Choices website.

This initiative progresses a commitment of the Parliamentary Agreement of the 10th Legislative Assembly by the ACT Labor-Greens Government.

The following can be attributed to Brighte Founder and CEO Katherine McConnell:

“This move further improves access and affordability, ensuring the upfront cost is no barrier to sustainable and energy efficient homes. We’re proud Brighte’s platform is supporting the progressive ambitions of the ACT Government in delivering an equitable clean energy future for all residents of the Territory.”