The Albanese and Allan Labor Government’s Solar for Apartments program is set to revolutionize energy consumption in Victorian apartment buildings, with thousands of solar panels slated to be installed. This initiative aims to significantly reduce power bills by approximately $500 per year for residents, thanks to rebates of up to $2,800 per apartment, or up to $140,000 per building. With applications now open for the first round of funding, this $16 million program will make it more affordable and convenient for apartment dwellers to embrace rooftop solar.
Victoria’s 2.5 million households include approximately 12% residing in apartments, with a majority of these units occupied by renters. Solar for Apartments targets this demographic, offering financial relief and environmental benefits to around 5,000 households. By reducing upfront costs and simplifying installation processes, the program aims to overcome the barriers that have historically deterred apartment owners from adopting solar energy solutions.
Rebates are available for apartment buildings up to eight storeys high, accommodating 5 to 50 apartments each. Owners corporations have the flexibility to choose between multiple individual solar PV systems, a single large solar PV system with solar sharing technology, or a combination of both, ensuring tailored solutions to meet varying needs.With over 500 registrations of interest already received, including from owners corporations, owner-occupiers, renters, and rental providers, the program underscores a significant demand for accessible solar solutions. Developed in collaboration with industry stakeholders, local government, and strata community representatives, Solar for Apartments embodies a commitment to sustainability and inclusivity.
Applications for the first round of funding are open until April 15th, offering a timely opportunity for eligible parties to seize the benefits of this transformative program. In this regard, Commonwealth Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen, said:
“We want to make it cheaper and easier for apartment residents to install solar on their rooftop so they too can take advantage of cleaner, cheaper solar to provide cost-of-living relief.
“In the past it’s been difficult for apartment residents to reap the benefits of cleaner, cheaper solar- this program will help overcome those barriers and power more Australian homes with renewables.”
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