Sun's shining thanks to solar home savings

And as of this month, Solar Homes has delivered 2 gigawatts of power across Victoria – close to double the amount generated by Yallourn and nearly as much as Loy Yang A.

The program represents 13 per cent of the total renewable capacity installed in the state, with its solar panels having cumulatively generated 6.5 gigawatt hours of power – enough cheap renewable energy to power every fridge in Victoria for almost two years.

The program has seen 330,000 solar panel, hot water, and solar battery systems installed through rebates and interest-free loans.

The last 12 months have been Solar Homes’ biggest, with 7,873 approved applications last month – including 4,435 rooftop solar approvals and 3,125 solar hot water approvals.

Eligible households can access a $1,400 rebate to install solar panels, a further $1,400 interest free loan and a further rebate of up to $1,000 to replace their hot water system – cutting $3,800 from upfront installation costs.

Customers who maximise their solar can save around $1,000 each year on their energy bill. Combined with hot water, heat pump savings can be up to $1,400 a year or at least $1,600 with a battery.

Melbourne’s western suburbs have overwhelmingly embraced the sun’s power with 44 per cent of homes in Tarneit, Truganina, Werribee and Hoppers Crossing having installed solar. In regional Victoria, Mildura and Shepparton have the highest solar uptake closely followed by Wodonga, Wangaratta and Wallan.

Victorians are taking control of their energy bills with solar now installed on 30 per cent of Victorian homes – a significant increased from 14 per cent when the Solar Homes program started six years ago. Since then, the program has also supported 5,500 jobs and delivered free training for plumbers and electricians to upskill.

Quote attributable to Premier Jacinta Allan

“We’re putting money back in the pockets of Victorians – helping save hundreds of thousands of families millions of dollars every year.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio

“Our popular Solar Homes program is delivering cheaper renewable energy – slashing power bills and slashing emissions.”

Quote attributable to Member for Laverton Sarah Connolly

“Melbourne’s west is proud to top the state in rooftop solar installations, powering our state’s renewables revolution.”