The Western Australian Government has launched a $13 million Household Energy Efficiency Scheme to support reduced energy costs for vulnerable households.
The four-year scheme will replace low-efficiency appliances, such as refrigerators, for households in relevant circumstances.
It will also provide household energy assessments, tailored education and LED lightbulb replacements in the initial rollout of the scheme, which is expected to start mid-2021.
This scheme has been modelled off successful programs from around the world and will help address some of the underlying factors that contribute to high household energy bills.
The scheme complements other relief measures, such as the Western Australian Government’s $600 Household Electricity Credit and doubling the Energy Assistance Payment to $610 in 2020.
Detailed planning for the scheme has commenced, which will be delivered through a partnership between non-government organisations, Synergy, Horizon Power and Energy Policy WA.
Western Australian Energy Minister, Bill Johnston, said, “The Household Energy Efficiency Scheme will help reduce the electricity bills of some of Western Australia’s most vulnerable people.
“This exciting new scheme will provide long-term relief to more than 10,000 households, which is especially needed during this unprecedented time.
“I look forward to this important scheme being rolled out in collaboration with the McGowan Government, our electricity retailers and non-government organisations.”
Further details and formal selection arrangements for partner organisations will be announced in early 2021.
Western Australian non-government organisations with experience in delivering energy efficiency programs for disadvantaged households are encouraged to register their interest at https://www.wa.gov.au/government/announcements/household-energy-efficiency-scheme.
