The Andrews Labor Government is helping more Victorians access modern and more affordable all electric homes through an Australian first program that will deliver bulk solar panels and hot water rebates for housing.

Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio today announced the opening of the $10 million Residential Electrification Grants program – with companies providing installations to more than 50 new or existing homes eligible.

The program will remove the need to apply for individual rebates, and enable new home buyers to install solar, heat pumps or solar hot water during the initial construction. This means will save new home buyers $4,600 before they even move in and remove double handling of installations – saving buyers money and hassle.

Hot water is the second largest consumer of household energy, switching to a heat pump alone could save households up to $400 a year on their electricity bills. Homes with solar and electric hot water can save up to $1500 on their annual energy bill.

A new home with all electric appliances and rooftop solar could save at least $2,200 on their annual energy bill. This new program will enable the installation of up to 8,332 solar PV and energy efficient hot water systems.

Solar Victoria is seeking to identify new projects that demonstrate innovation in their delivery and increase access towards electrification in their homes. This could include providing easier access to renewable energy technologies, technologies that reduce energy load during peak times or enhance network resilience.

Homeowners will receive their rebates as cash savings through their provider. Providers will be required to show evidence of completed installations to Solar Victoria before funds are allocated

The program will also help to support Victoria’s renewable economy by encouraging partners to source their solar products and services locally.

This builds on the Labor Government’s $1.3 billion Solar Homes Program has helped more than 260,000 Victorians slash the upfront installation costs of solar panels, hot water systems and batteries through rebates and loans, and saved more than 2.2 million tonnes emissions.

Expressions of interest are open until 24 November. For more information visit: solar.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio

“We’re making it easier than ever for Victorians to install solar and energy efficient hot water, enabling households to run more cheaply and efficiently.”

“This program is helping to accelerating the household transition to all-electric homes on a scale not yet seen in Australia.”

Quote attributable to Member for Sunbury Josh Bull

“This initiative will encourage more new home buyers to take advantage of solar and new modern electric appliances, slashing their energy bills and reducing their emissions.”