More solar rebates released

THE state government has accelerated and expanded the Solar Homes Program to meet surging demand and deliver immediate cost savings to Victorian households.

More than 100,000 households have now installed half-priced power stations on their roof at no upfront cost through the state government’s Solar Homes program.

In response to high demand, Solar Victoria released 3,000 new solar PV rebates noon on Wednesday last week.

This was followed yesterday (Wednesday, December 16) with the release of at least 2,500 more rebates.

The solar panel rebate and interest-free loan amounts will stay at up to $1,850 each until at 30 June 30, 2021.

Last week, South Barwon MP Darren Cheeseman said more than 1,645 households in his electorate had solar systems installed, saving households up to $890 a year on their
power bills.

As of November this year, about 5,101 systems have been installed across Greater Geelong, Bellarine, Lara and the Surf Coast.

Last month, more than 7,000 Victorian households had solar systems installed.

“Solar Homes is helping local families to take control of their energy bills and save hundreds each year,” Mr Cheeseman said.

“The latest figures show that Solar Homes has been very popular in South Barwon which also means our area is part of Victoria’s efforts to reduce emissions and tackle climate change.”

Since July 1, 2019, the Solar Homes program has been converting solar PV rebate applications into installations, with most applications approved and installations completed within the month they are allocated to the customer.

The state government will also provide $191 million to expand the program, with an extra 42,000 solar panel rebates over the next two years.

Victorians will also be able to apply for a Solar Homes battery, with the state government providing 17,500 household battery rebates over the next three years.

For the first time, small businesses can now apply, with 15,000 solar rebates earmarked for businesses.

For more information, head to solar.vic.gov.au