Archive for March, 2010

The Federal Government has been very busy lately, rearranging its support for the solar industry and support for householders installing domestic solar power and hot water.

And once again it has proved the general rule that, if attractive supports (e.g. rebates) are available to go solar, grab them quick before they are reduced or withdrawn.

Solar hot water

If you ordered your solar hot water system or a heat pump before 20 February 2010, or had it installed before then, you still have until 19 March to claim the old rebate of $1600 for solar hot water systems and $1000 for heat pumps.

If you ordered your system after 20 February, eligible people can still receive a rebate under the new Renewable Energy Bonus Scheme but it’s not as attractive: $1000 for solar hot water systems and $600 for heat pumps.

Green Loans

Sadly the offer of up to $10,000 interest free Green Loan from the Federal Government to invest in home sustainability improvements like solar power are no longer on offer. It was good while it lasted.

Renewable Energy Target Scheme

While it hasn’t gone through parliament and won’t do for some time, the Federal Government is also planning to improve the subsidies provided to householders for solar power systems and solar hot water from 1 January 2011. While not as attractive as the $8000 rebate offered last year, they are presently estimating a 1.5 kilowatt solar power system will attract a subsidy of $6200.