- $1000 rebate to replace old heaters
- Additional rebates for capping gas heaters and upgrading switchboards
- Program conceived in conjunction with various welfare groups
Low-income Victorians will now receive assistance to help upgrade inefficient heating and cooling systems, the state government has announced.
Solar Victoria’s $1000 rebate aims to improve homes’ comfort while lowering greenhouse gas emissions and saving households up to $300 per year on energy bills.
Specifically, the rebates will allow households to replace old heaters with much more energy-efficient reverse-cycle systems that can be used throughout the year.
Lily D’Ambrosio, the Minister for Solar Homes, said an additional $200 will be available to cap old gas heaters with another $500 to upgrade their electrical switchboard.
“Everyone deserves a home where you can keep warm in winter or cool down in summer without breaking the bank,” said Ms D’Ambrosio.
“The Home Heating and Cooling Upgrades Program will not only help those who would otherwise struggle to afford a new heating and cooling system, it will also help Victoria reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and make our homes more resilient to climate change.”
Lily D’Ambrosio, Minsiter for Solar Homes
“I’d like to thank all the retailers, including The Good Guys, who are helping us deliver this program to people who need assistance.”
To be eligible for the rebates, owner-occupied households must have an approved concession card or a combined income of less than $90,000.
The funding falls under the state government’s $335 million Home Heating and Cooling Upgrade program which seeks to support 250,000 low-income and vulnerable households.
The program opened to community housing organisations in May and was developed in close partnership with the Community Housing Industry Association, Victorian Council of Social Services, St Vincent de Paul, Uniting Church and the Brotherhood of St Laurence.
