- Published:
- Monday 30 January 2017
The Andrews Labor Government today announced a $6 million initiative which will improve home energy efficiency and save money for those most in need.
The Making Home Energy More Affordable program will deliver energy efficiency upgrades for 800 concession and low income households.
It will include replacing appliances, home renovations and installing solar panels, and give households the option to improve their homes with no and low-interest loans.
The announcement helps fill a gap left by the closure of the Federal Government’s Low Income Energy Efficiency Programs in 2016 and will reduce household financial stress by saving participants an average of $500 per year on their energy bills.
A typical annual household energy bill in Victoria is $2394.
These savings are based on a typical retrofit of $4500 for measures such as draught proofing, ceiling insulation, and a heater upgrade.
The program will partner with community organisations to deliver the best outcomes for low income households.
The Labor Government is also increasing access to the Victoria Energy Efficiency Target and Home Energy Efficiency Ratings schemes for vulnerable households.
This funding is the first of several energy efficiency programs to help Victorian families and businesses with their energy bills.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“The Andrews Labor Government is taking the lead to ensure we have reliable, affordable and sustainable energy.”
“While power prices are set by the retailers, we're providing support to help Victorian households take control of their energy use.”
Quote attributable to Member for Broadmeadows Frank McGuire
“This new funding will help reduce costs for low income families and provide lasting benefits to those who need it most.”