Victoria’s solar revolution took off this month with thousands of new solar panels, batteries and hot water systems to be installed on houses across the state. The Victorian government is expecting the move to boost energy supply, create jobs and reduce power bills.
Minister for Solar Homes Lily D’Ambrosio officially launched the Victorian government’s landmark Solar Homes program this month. The $1.3 billion program is expected to assist 770,000 households to invest in solar while creating 5,500 new jobs and slashing carbon emissions.
“This landmark program will boost energy supply, create thousands of jobs and slash power bills for families across the state,” Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said.
The Solar Homes program will support 49,000 installations, including 42,000 rooftop solar systems on 40,000 owner-occupied homes and 2,000 for rented homes this financial year.
The rebates for solar panels will be released each month to ensure the program is allocated fairly, rolled out safely and provides certainty for the solar industry.
For the first time, 1,000 rebates will be available for solar storage batteries, to be rolled out in targeted areas in three groups. Rebates will be allocated to 200 from 1 July, 400 from 1 November and 400 from 1 March.
This financial year, rebates to solar hot water systems will also continue to be available for 6,000 recipients who haven’t already accessed a rebate through the program.
Solar panels will also be available at no-interest loans to further drive down up-front costs.
Victorians who wish to participate in the Solar Homes program must get at least one quote from an Approved Solar Retailer, before confirming if they are eligible through an online portal.
This streamlined application process will allow installations to occur faster and provide consumers with a discount of up to $2,225 off their invoice from their solar retailer. The no-interest loan for solar panels will also be offered at the point of sale, matching the rebate amount.
“With more rebates and now optional no-interest loans on the table, we’re further reducing the up-front costs to make solar more accessible to Victorians from all across the state,” D’Ambrosio said.
The government said that more than 32,000 households are already saving on their electricity bills through the Solar Homes program while also doing their part to tackle climate change and create new jobs in the solar industry.
“Solar Homes is a critical part of the clean energy future we’re delivering – reducing pollution and tackling climate change,” Minister D’Ambrosio said.
For more information about how to participate in the Solar Homes program visit solar.vic.gov.au.
