Ceiling insulation has been added to the list of eligible items covered by the ACT Government’s Sustainable Household Scheme (SHS).
The SHS provides zero-interest loans of up to $15,000 to help ACT households to reduce household costs by increasing energy efficiency, using less energy and saving money.
Ceiling insulation helps to keep homes comfortable during the ACT’s cold winters and hot summers. Around half of the energy used in an average Canberra home is for heating and cooling.
“Many renters in the ACT are living in housing that is expensive to heat or cool, and doesn’t meet expectations around having a suitable home to help maintain health, comfort, and happiness,” Attorney-General Shane Rattenbury said.
From 1 April, Mr Rattenbury said, new energy efficiency standards will require rental properties to meet a minimum standard for ceiling insulation.
“Zero interest loans for ceiling insulation will help homeowners and rental property owners improve energy efficiency, increase thermal comfort, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions of ACT homes,” Mr Rattenbury said.
As of February, more than $110 million in loans had been borrowed under the scheme – the equivalent of more than 9,000 Canberra households.
“With the upfront capital costs spread over time under the loans scheme, Canberrans are installing new energy-efficient products to reduce their household costs,” Chief Minister Andrew Barr said.
“The interest in the Scheme shows how willing Canberrans are to make climate-conscious choices that deliver energy cost savings and emission reductions,” Mr Barr said.
Earlier this year, the ACT Government allocated an additional $50 million to the program.
- $50 million boost to Sustainable Household Scheme (9 February)
“The Scheme contributes to the ACT achieving a sustainable future as we progress towards our target of net zero emissions by 2045,” Mr Barr said.
More information about the SHS including how to apply for a loan, are available on the Everyday Climate Choices website.
More information on minimum energy efficiency standards for rental homes can be found at www.justice.act.gov.au.
