The ACT Government has committed an extra $50 million to the Sustainable Household Scheme to help more households and community groups transition to an environmentally sustainable future, Chief Minister Andrew Barr announced.
The Sustainable Household Scheme provides zero interest loans to eligible ACT residents and community groups to upgrade their premises or to use renewable energy products to reduce energy costs and limit the impact of greenhouse gas emissions.
“Canberrans have responded enthusiastically to the Scheme,” Mr Barr said. Almost 9,000 households have engaged in sustainability upgrades since the Scheme opened in July 2021 – “making this one of the most popular and successful schemes in the history of Territory self-government,” Mr Barr said.
Through the Scheme, ACT homes have installed solar systems, batteries, reverse cycle heating and cooling systems, hot water heat pumps, and efficient electric stove tops. More than 100 new electric cars and nearly 50 used electric cars were purchased with the help of zero interest loans under the Scheme.
- Sustainable Household Scheme loans for community groups (30 August 2022)
- Sustainable Household Scheme puts more solar in city (19 May 2022)
- Banksia Sustainability Awards recognise ACT Sustainable Household Scheme (1 April 2022)
Scheme applications have been evenly divided across the ACT.
“The ACT has committed to one of the most ambitious climate action agendas in the world,” Mr Barr said. “Our vision for Canberra is that of a vibrant, progressive, inclusive, innovative, and sustainable city where all can share in the benefits of a zero-emissions future.
“The Sustainable Household Scheme is a clear example that Canberrans are ready and willing to make climate-conscious choices that deliver the greatest value for money in terms of the emissions reductions that can be achieved.”
The guidelines and more information about the Scheme including how to apply for a loan, are available on the Climate Choices website.
This additional $50 million builds on the $150 million funded in the 2020-21 Budget as part of ACT Labor’s election commitment.
