Families across the state can stay warm and save money on bills this winter, thanks to a range of NSW Government programs helping to reduce energy costs.
Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and Minister for Energy Matt Kean said as the winter chill sets in, there is Government support available for families concerned about energy costs.
"We all tend to use more energy in winter heating our homes. That's why I want to remind NSW families that there is Government support available to keep costs down," Mr Kean said.
"Our data shows there could be more than 450,000 customers eligible for support – but haven't taken it up yet.
"Our Family Energy Rebate helps mums and dads cover the costs of household energy bills.
"The Low-Income Household Rebate can also help those with eligible Department of Human Service Health Care Cards or Pensioner Concession Cards."
The NSW Government has recently expanded it's free Energy Switch service to include gas as well as electricity, which could see more than 1.3 million households across the State save potentially hundreds of dollars a year on gas bills.
"Around 7,000 households have already switched electricity providers, bringing close to $3 million in annual savings since the free service launched last year. The average saving per household is more than $400 a year," Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said.
"Last year, we saved 900,000 NSW households about $300 million through energy rebates. That saved each household about $330 a year on their energy bills thanks to our rebates.
"There are more than 70 rebates and savings measures available, and I urge everyone to make sure they know what other cost of living savings they may be eligible for by going to the Service NSW website or visiting a centre in person."
There are also practical things families can do to reduce energy usage and costs, including using reverse cycle air-conditioners and energy efficient appliances.
"Families, pensioners and concession holders could all be eligible for the Government's appliance replacement offer, which makes it easier to upgrade an old fridge or TV with a new, more energy efficient model," Mr Kean said.
The savings eligible households can make this winter include:
- up to $180 a year for the Family Energy Rebate
- up to $285 a year for the Low-Income Household Rebate
- up to $110 a year for the Gas Rebate
- up to $285 a year for the Medical Energy Rebate
- up to $3.68 per day for the Life Support Rebate
- hundreds of dollars a year by using discounted energy efficient lighting. Changing just 20 halogen downlights to LEDs can save up to $210 a year; and
- from $50 to $200 per year by upgrading old fridges or TVs at substantial discount to a new, more efficient models.
