SOLAR HOT WATER REBATES SHUT DOWN BY LABOR
March 2, 2012
The Solar Hot Water Rebate program has been axed by the Gillard Government without warning.
The program offered families a rebate of $1000 to install a solar hot water system or $600 to install a heat pump hot water system.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said without warning the government announced that only those people who have installed, purchased or ordered (with deposit) a solar hot water system or heat pump hot water system prior to February 28, 2012, would be eligible for a rebate.
For those who installed a system prior to February 28, paperwork must reach the Department within 122 days from the date of installation.
Mr Chester said the program’s cessation without any consultation was another breach of trust by the Gillard Government.
“The Gillard Government has amassed a record debt and now it is families trying to do their bit for the environment that will have to pay,” Mr Chester said.
“Axing this program will make it harder for families to afford to install solar hot water systems as a means of reducing their household energy bills.
“The Prime Minister claims that her government is working towards a clean energy future – but taking away a valuable rebate program for everyday Australians suggests otherwise.
“Families will be trying to cope with increased energy bills and living expenses due the carbon tax from July 1 and now the government is taking away one of the few programs that might actually help them to reduce their energy bills.”
Mr Chester said a Private Member’s Bill requiring the Gillard Government to commit to the remaining funding allocated for the program ($64.5 million in 2011-12) would be introduced into Parliament by the Coalition during the next sitting fortnight.
He said the Coalition was committed to the solar industry and as part of its Direct Action Plan had a ‘one million solar roofs’ policy, including the installation of solar hot water systems.
