To help low-income households and Canberrans with chronic health conditions have more comfortable and energy efficient homes, the ACT Government has included ceiling insulation rebates in the Home Energy Support Program and launched a pilot scheme.
“All Canberrans deserve a warm home in winter and cool house in summer,” Shane Rattenbury, ACT Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction, said. “It’s critical that we continue to prioritise our support to those who need it most as we make the transition to an efficient and all-electric city.”
Previously, eligible low-income households could access a $2,500 rebate under the Home Energy Support Program to install efficient electric appliances. The rebate now includes ceiling insulation so poorer Canberrans can boost the energy efficiency of their home.
“We are in the middle of an inequality crisis,” Mr Rattenbury said. “This program will assist those doing it tough by helping Canberrans on lower incomes to increase the energy efficiency of their home, reducing energy bills whilst also reducing emissions.
“Heating and cooling makes up 60 per cent of an average Canberra household’s energy use. Installing insulation in your home is one of the most cost-effective home improvements Canberrans can make to reduce their energy bills.”
The new Chronic Health Conditions Pilot Program will offer Canberrans with chronic health conditions up to $10,000 to install electric appliances and ceiling insulation.
Pilot participants will be identified through referrals from health or low-income support not-for-profit organisations. The pilot will upgrade 20 homes by the end of the year, with plans to expand the program in the future.
“This pilot will make a big difference for those members of our community who live with chronic health conditions that affect their ability to regulate body temperature,” Mr Rattenbury said. “Having a comfortable home that supports wellbeing year round is important for everyone, and particularly important for those with chronic health conditions.
The ACT Council of Social Service (ACTCOSS) welcomed the announcement.
“It is important that low-income and vulnerable households don’t get left behind in our path to electrification,” Dr Gemma Killen, head of policy, said. “Expanding programs and rebate offerings will help overcome barriers to having an energy efficient, and comfortable, home.
“We look forward to continuing to work with the ACT Government to provide insight into new ways to support the Canberra community in a just transition.”
The Home Energy Support Program and Chronic Health Conditions Pilot Program are part of the ACT Government’s $50 million commitment over four years to improve building efficiency and sustainability for social and public housing, low-income owner occupiers and low-performing rental properties.
Eligible homeowners who can apply for a rebate include Pension Concession Card holders and Department of Veteran Affairs Gold Card holders.
For more information and to check your eligibility, visit the Everyday Climate Choices website https://www.climatechoices.act.gov.au/.
