SA to upgrade 500 families with renewables

The Federal Government has announced a pilot program to provide energy upgrades for 500 South Australian households, aiming to reduce energy bills and ease pressure on the grid.

Through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), the Government is investing $6.2 million in this project, led by SA Power Networks.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said household energy upgrades can make a huge difference to household bills.

“This project is about unlocking bill-saving technology for more households,” Bowen said.

The program will subsidise participating households to install smart electric appliances, including air-conditioners, heat pump hot water systems, and electric vehicle chargers. These devices will be connected to a home energy management system to optimise energy usage and reduce costs.

The South Australian Government will partner with SA Power Networks to engage with households and provide additional subsidies for low-income households. Electricity retailers, including EnergyAustralia and Amber Electric, will offer tailored retail plans for participants.

According to Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Jenny McAllister, this trial is another way our government is empowering households, no matter their postcode or income, to take control of their energy use.

“It adds to the Albanese Government’s $1.7 billion package supporting households through low-interest loans and upgrades to social housing,” she said.

The project aims to shape national standards for energy management and provide valuable insights into consumer energy use.

South Australian Minister for Energy and Mining Tom Koutsantonis emphasised the importance of careful navigation in the renewable energy transition.

“The energy transition offers great opportunities – but also requires careful navigation,” he said.

“Done right, cheap renewable energy will lower prices for households and businesses.”

According to him, this initiative will give us a deeper understanding of how consumers can use energy in ways that maximise their savings.

“That understanding will assist future policy development and inform ways we can continue to expand and promote the benefits of clean and affordable energy.”

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