- The Crisafulli Government delivers on its plan to drive down power bills for thousands of Queensland renters, with applications for the Supercharged Solar for Renters program opening today.
- Supercharged Solar for Renters program to deliver immediate benefits with 6,500 households expected to save around $700 a year.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy after Labor's decade of decline.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering cost of living relief for Queenslanders, with applications now open for the Supercharged Solar for Renters program to help reduce energy bills.
The $26.3 million Supercharged Solar for Renters program is expected to save 6,500 households approximately $700 a year on their power bills while providing rebates of up to $3,500 to eligible landlords who install rooftop solar on their rentals.
The Crisafulli Government consulted with industry and targeted tenant groups on the design and technical criteria to ensure the best outcome for Queenslanders.
Unlike the former Labor Government – which failed to provide meaningful cost of living relief during its decade of decline – the Crisafulli Government is delivering real cost of living relief through this new program as well as a better lifestyle through a stronger economy.
Treasurer, Minister for Energy and Minister for Home Ownership David Janetzki said this was another step the Crisafulli Government was taking to support Queenslanders whether they rent or own a home.
"We promised to restore this vital program, and that's exactly what we've done," Treasurer Janetzki said.
"It's a win-win-win, easing costs for renters, enhancing property values for landlords, all while supporting renewable energy adoption in Queensland.
"A similar program was trialled and left to lapse under the former Labor Government, despite having broad support from industry and renters."
Treasurer Janetzki said while the number of Queensland homes and businesses using solar PV systems soared past 900,000, many renters had been missing out.
"Queenslanders' love of rooftop solar is evident, with 40 per cent of the State's households adopting it. This program ensures the strong take up continues and renters also reap the benefits," he said.
"The Crisafulli Government is committed to a diversified energy mix. As outlined in our Energy Roadmap, solar will play an integral role in long-term stability in the network and to help meet future demand."
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said the Supercharged Solar for Renters program was exactly the kind of sensible, affordable solution the community has been asking for.
"Here in Bundaberg and the Burnett we know better than anyone the power of the Queensland sun, and it's fantastic to finally see renters getting a fair share of the savings," Mr Bennett said.
"This program means real cost-of-living relief for local families who have been doing it tough.
"It's about putting money back into the pockets of local renters and strengthening the reliability of our regional energy network."
Bundaberg tenant Stewart McCulloch congratulated the Crisafulli Government on offering strong financial incentives for landlords to install solar on their rental properties.
"With all the other cost-of-living pressures, savings on my energy bill will be a welcomed relief," Mr McCulloch said.
The Supercharged Solar for Renters program will apply to eligible landlords with detached dwellings, townhouses and duplexes. It will initially be available for properties that are rented for $1,000 per week or less.
