The Federal and NSW governments have committed more than $200 million toward energy upgrades for those in social housing, as well as access to solar for low-income renters and apartment residents.
With the cost of living mounting, energy and food prices rising and rents soaring, many less fortunate Australians are having a harder time than ever.
While Australia has the largest rooftop solar uptake of anywhere in the world – one in three homes are equipped with the technology – it remains unaffordable and thus inaccessible to many Australians.
24,000 homes eligible
Under the new offer, some 24,000 homes will be eligible for upgrades, which include options such as heat pump hot water systems, ceiling fans, reverse-cycle air conditioners, solar systems, insulation and draught proofing.
“Critical energy upgrades in social housing properties and strong solar energy incentives for apartment block residents across NSW will deliver cleaner, cheaper energy to more Australians,” Federal Minister for Energy Chris Bowen said.
“The Albanese Government is helping those who can’t access energy upgrades and solar power reap the rewards of the clean energy transformation.”
Priority will be given to the least energy-efficient properties, often older homes built before modern construction standards and those in locations that experience more extreme temperatures.
Taking practical action
“Today’s announcement from the Albanese and Minns governments is the kind of practical climate action that makes a difference for Australians,” Climate Council head of advocacy Dr Jennifer Rayner said.
“By helping people in NSW who are doing it tough to upgrade their appliances and access cheap renewable energy, this investment will cut power bills and carbon pollution – a fantastic two-for-one deal.
“Making our homes more energy efficient and powering them with cheap renewable electricity is an important part of building a clean energy system that works for people, not multinational fossil fuel corporations.
“Millions of households around Australia are already seeing the benefits so it’s essential renters, people on tight incomes and those who live in apartments can share these too.”