Thousands of low-income Victorians can upgrade their inefficient heating and cooling systems, thanks to a new state government rebate, that will improve the comfort of homes, lower greenhouse gas emissions and save households up to $300 per year on their energy bills.
Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing announced that the Victorian Government will begin providing $1000 rebates to support 250,000 low-income households to replace their old heaters with energy-efficient reverse-cycle systems that can warm their home in winter and cool it in summer.
The rebates are open to owner-occupier households with an approved concession card or a combined household income of less than $90,000 and could cover more than half of the typical efficient reverse-cycle system. Additional rebates of $200 are available to cap old gas heaters, and $500 to upgrade electrical switchboards.
Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing said, “This program will help people replace their old heaters with new, energy efficient models that will save them money on their power bills and improve their comfort and wellbeing.”
The funding is part of the state government’s $335 million Home Heating and Cooling Upgrade program.
The HHCU Program follows the $250 Power Saving Bonus, which provides immediate bill relief for eligible concession card holders; the Victorian Default Offer, which sets a fair price for energy; and Victorian Energy Compare, an independent energy price comparison website that could save households $300 on their energy bill.
By replacing outdated, unsafe or inefficient electric, gas and wood-fired heaters, the upgrade program is further improving access to energy, lowering the cost of living and building climate resilience.
More information, including instructions on how to apply is available at heatingupgrades.vic.gov.au.
