The Federal Government will provide $145.3 million to provide upgrades such as rooftop solar, reverse cycle air-conditioning, LED lights, ceiling fans and electric hot water systems to New South Wales social housing tenants.
The Federal Government is working to ensure around 13,500 households in social housing properties can bring their energy bills down for good, reduce their energy use and cut emissions.
It’s part of the Federal Government’s $500 million expansion of the Social Housing Energy Performance Initiative (SHEPI) to deliver real savings to those most at risk of energy hardship but with the least ability to undertake household energy upgrades.
The announcement builds on the previous joint $175 million investment to fund SHEPI upgrades in 24,000 households in New South Wales, of which 2000 have already been completed.
The national program will enable more than 100,000 social housing properties across Australia – almost 25 percent of the nation’s social housing stock – to save on energy bills and reduce emissions.
Household energy upgrades could save tenants around $1,800 on their energy bills each year.
Federal Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Josh Wilson, said every Australian deserves a home that is safe to live in, comfortable and cheaper to run, and energy efficiency upgrades can make a real difference to these outcomes.
“After the recent hot weather and knowing the challenge of winter is ahead, we’re reminded of just how vital these upgrades are in bringing year-round comfort and lowering bills to some of the most vulnerable households.”
New South Wales Minister for Climate Change, Energy and the Environment, Penny Sharpe, said there are 24,000 households in the state already benefiting from this program.
“New South Wales welcomes the announcement that another 13,500 will be upgraded,” she said.
“The additional funding will allow us to accelerate our progress and expand our reach, to deliver more benefits for the community and the environment.”
New South Wales Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Rose Jackson, said social housing tenants deserve homes that are affordable to run and comfortable year-round.
“These upgrades mean lower bills, better living conditions and real cost-of-living relief.
“No one should have to choose between heating, cooling and putting food on the table. By making social housing more energy efficient, we’re cutting costs, improving comfort, and supporting tenants who need it most.”
