Tens of thousands of Queenslanders can now get rebates of up to $1,000 for energy efficient appliances.
The state government has doubled funding for the Climate Smart Energy Savers program to $44 million in a bid to lower energy bills and reduce carbon emissions.
It offers eligible households rebates of between $300 and $1,000 to replace old appliances and hot water systems with more energy efficient ones.
Acting Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mark Bailey said the program would give households “significant savings off their electricity bills for years to come”.
Upgrading your appliances to more energy efficient ones can be “quite a big saving” long term, said Alan Pears, from the School of Global, Urban and Social Studies at RMIT.
“A washing machine that’s 1.5-stars would cost you about $1,600 [to run over 10 years] instead of about $470 for a 4-star appliance. So, over 10 years, you’d be about $1,200 ahead,” he said.
“The reality is, if your existing appliance is
Any Queenslander who replaces an old energy appliance or hot water system with a four-star or higher rated energy-efficient appliance is eligible for a rebate.
Appliances must be installed either on or after September 4, 2023 and before the program’s funding runs out.
There are two types of rebates, a standard one for all households, and a low-income one.
Your rebate amount will depend on your household’s income and the type of appliance purchased and installed.
Eligible appliances include washing machines, dishwashers, dryers, refrigerators, air conditioners and solar and heat-pump hot water systems.
You must be at least 18 to apply, and live in Queensland. Commercial premises are not eligible.
You have to apply for your rebate within 30 days of buying and installing your appliance, and you’ll need to keep your receipts for proof of purchase.
It’s important to lodge your receipt as soon as you can, as the program closes when funds run out.
(ABC)
