Landlords can now claim rebates from Solar Victoria to upgrade inefficient heating and cooling systems in rental properties.
Announced by Minister for Solar Homes, Lily D’Ambrosio, the expanded Solar Victoria program is to provide $1,000 rebates for the installation of energy-efficient reverse-cycle air conditioners.
Ms D’Ambrosio said the rebate could help renters save up to $300 on their annual power bills.
She said more than 3,300 Victorians had already taken advantage of the rebate scheme since it opened to community housing organisations in May and owner-occupiers in August.
“To be eligible for the rebate, the rental property must be either earning $500 or less in weekly rent, occupied by renters holding a valid concession card or with a combined household income below $90,000, or unoccupied with a potential to earn $500 or less in weekly rent,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
“A further $200 rebate is available to cap old gas heaters, along with $500 to upgrade an electrical switchboard, if needed,” she said.
“About 30 per cent of Victorians rent their homes and just under 80 per cent earn under $90,000.”
Ms D’Ambrosio said around 45 per cent of that cohort struggled to pay their energy bills.
The Minister said rental providers would be able to apply for two rebates each financial year, with one rebate available per property, to ensure as many renters benefitted from upgraded systems as quickly as possible.
