The New Solar Homes Program for Heating and Cooling
The Victorian Government has recently announced a $797 million Household Energy Savings Package to help families and businesses in the state cover their rising electricity costs, make their properties more energy efficient, and gain access to solar power.
As part of this package, the state government is investing over $335 million over four years to enable 250,000 low income and vulnerable households to replace and upgrade their old, wood or electrical heaters to more energy efficient, lower cost heating and cooling systems.
In addition to improving their comfort and health, these upgrades are expected to help families save on running costs – anywhere from $300 up to $900.
The program will also create more jobs, and bring about environmental benefits as emissions are reduced, improving local air quality.
How does the energy efficient heating and cooling program work?
Rebates and grants will be made available to help eligible households install high efficiency reverse cycle air conditioners, replacing their old, inefficient heaters.
The base rebate is $1,000, which means a household that is installing an average reverse-cycle heater and cooler (costing approximately $1,700) will only need to pay $700 out of pocket.
The program will be delivered by Solar Victoria, and up to 100,000 systems will be available within the first year.
Installations in Victoria can only be done by installers licensed by Energy Safe Victoria or the Victorian Building Authority, and must include a compliance certificate.
Further details will be announced by early next year.
What type of heaters can be installed?
Eligible heaters are required to meet a minimum 4 star energy performance standard. A list of eligible products will be available on Solar Victoria’s website. To apply for the rebate, you must purchase only products on the list.
Who will benefit from this program?
The program, set to commence in early 2021, will be available to low income and vulnerable households, including concession card holders, to ensure that the assistance benefits those who need it most.
Generally, the program will be promoted towards households that:
- Do not have suitable heating
- Are replacing an old gas heater, including ducted heating
- Are replacing wood-fire heaters
- Are currently using outdated reverse cycle systems
- Have LPG heating
Rental properties are eligible for this program, and landlords may apply to upgrade heating and cooling in their rental property to benefit low income renters.
Social and not-for-profit community housing providers will also be allowed to apply for this program on behalf of their tenants.
The Victorian Government will work closely with industry and welfare groups to develop eligibility criteria, and more information will be released in due course.
At Total Electrics & Air-Conditioning, we offer a wide range of energy efficient heating and cooling systems, including LG reverse cycle split systems. For help in choosing one that will suit your home, please contact our team today.
