Agencies responsible for housing and energy have developed the Smart Energy for Social Housing plan, which has begun with 10 public housing properties receiving rooftop solar panels in Clarkson, Gosnells, Balga, Ellenbrook, Rockingham and Girrawheen.
In July, the Government announced funding for solar panels on 500 social housing properties as part of the WA Recovery Plan.
Minister for Energy, Bill Johnston said Synergy would install and maintain the rooftop solar systems at eligible Department of Communities’ rental properties throughout the main electricity grid.
“Tenants will also have access to Synergy’s Future Communities Plan, which offers a significantly discounted rate for electricity consumed during peak generation times when the sun is shining,” Mr Johnston said.
“It is expected tenants will save up to 20 per cent on their energy bills.”
He said the Smart Energy for Social Housing plan was an exciting, first-of-its-kind initiative that would help the State become greener and cleaner.
Minister for Housing, Peter Tinley said the plan “continues our massive investment into social housing infrastructure that will not only provide more options for Western Australians, but also make existing homes more liveable”.
“Adding rooftop solar to the Department’s existing program of works results in financial savings for hundreds of WA’s most vulnerable people,” Mr Tinley said.
“It will also help stimulate the economy and support local jobs by activating trades not currently involved in social housing construction.”
