Electricity bill support for locals
Published on 22 March 2021
Electricity bills are a standard cost in every Victorian home, but high use during peak seasons, coupled with increased prices, can put a strain on households. Fortunately, there are programs available to help residents reduce their electricity use and save money, from solar panel and battery installations to power-saving bonuses for energy-stressed households.
Solar Savers
City of Maribyrnong residents can now access affordable, high quality solar and battery installations and advice through Solar Savers, a program that has helped over 200 Victorian households install rooftop solar and enjoy the benefits of clean, renewable energy and cheaper electricity bills.
The program includes options for both owners and renters, and is a great way to future-proof against increasing energy costs, while reducing climate impacts at the same time.
Through Solar Savers, local residents can register and receive a free home energy assessment. An expert will assess the home’s energy needs remotely and recommend a tailored solar and/or battery proposal for the property. A solar expert will then be in contact to discuss the options that suit you and your home best.
Eligible households who enquire this year will have access to the Victorian Government Solar Rebate of $1,850 as well as a 4-year interest-free loan of the same amount. The program also includes options for low-interest loans for pensioners and low income cardholders, to help cover costs of installing the system.
For more information, or to receive a free solar and energy assessment for your home, visit Council’s website: www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/SolarSavers
Power Saving Bonus to offset electricity costs
Electricity bills are a significant cost for Victorians, with one in five households requesting financial assistance with energy bills last year due to the impacts of COVID-19.
Between 1 February 2021 and 31 January 2022, eligible residents can access a Power Saving Bonus from the Victorian Government, to provide direct support to households experiencing energy bill stress due to COVID-19.
The Power Saving Bonus is a one-off $250 payment and is available to those with a residential Victorian electricity account, who also hold a pensioner concession card, a Veteran Affairs gold card/pensioner concession, or receive JobSeeker, Austudy, Abstudy or Youth Allowance. One payment is available for each eligible household, and is available until the program ends on 31 January 2022.
For more information, call 1800 000 832 or visit the Victorian Energy Compare website compare.energy.vic.gov.au.
Message from the Mayor, Cr Michael Clarke
Environmental programs like these are so important because they not only reduce the impact on the climate, they also help our residents stay healthy and well. I hope locals take the opportunity to access some of these great initiatives to help improve their day to day lives.
Maribyrnong News
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