The Federal Government announcement of the closure of the home insulation and solar hot water rebate this February has sparked concerns amongst confused homeowners.
Some homeownders are under the false impression that the rebates have been completely abolished. This is, however, a misunderstanding. Environment Minister, Mr Peter Garrett, has announced significant changes, which include the closure of the solar hot water and insulation rebate, and the introduction of the new Household Renewable Energy Bonus Scheme, now in effect, which includes rebates for solar hot water and heat pumps.
Now, a new rebate of $1,000 is be available for solar hot water heaters or insulation, with the insulation component of the Renewable Energy Bonus Scheme coming into operation by June 1, 2010. Heat pumps will attract a $600 rebate.
The new scheme will see consumers paying for insulation work themselves, claiming the Government rebate, post installation, through Medicare offices. The Government believes this change will make consumers more particular about the credentials of insulation installers and the quality of their work, thus boosting the safety for households and workers whose employment is funded by these important environmental programs.
Commenting on the issue, Romano Bolzon, National Business Manager for Ecosmart Solar Hot Water Systems said, “Our EcoSmart Hot Water dealers across the country have been receiving thousands of phone calls from customers who are unclear about whether or not they can still receive any rebate following the government’s announcement.
“Homeowners will in fact be pleased to know that they are still entitled to a government rebate, which will help reduce the cost of switching to environmental hot water. With the unpredictable nature of the rebate changes, homeowners should consider taking up the rebate option sooner rather than later, to avoid being hit in the hip pocket at a later date when rebates are abolished,” he added.
A solar water heater is the best thing to reduce energy costs in the home. With hot water typically accounting for 30-35% of household energy bills, solar hot water systems are a wise investment to reduce energy bills by up to 80%.
Solar hot water has been included in the government’s Renewable Energy Target (RET) scheme since 2001. With the introduction of Federal and State Government rebates, solar hot water heaters have been a great success and have played a significant role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
