2020-07-29
The ACT Government has today expanded the ACT Home Energy Assessment Scheme to help lower power bills for renters by providing free in-home energy assessments.
Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability Shane Rattenbury said the program will look at simple things people can do around their rental home to help save them money and avoid bill shock.
“It can be very hard for renters to make major energy-saving changes to their home. By expanding this program, we are able to provide renters with tailored information, such as draughtproofing and using heating and cooling appliances and materials efficiently,” Minister Rattenbury said.
“The ACT Government has engaged the Australian Energy Foundation to design and deliver the program, in partnership with ACT based organisation, Better Renting.
“An assessor will either come to your home or talk with you by phone to help find those little cheap and quick fixes you can do, and help show how you can reduce the amount of energy you use for heating, cooling, appliances, hot water, lighting and cooking.
“The ACT Government already has a number of different programs to help the community lower their energy bills while keeping their homes at comfortable temperatures all year round, including partnering with the St Vincent de Paul Society to assist low-income households, as well as offering free home energy assessments focused on changes that homeowners can make.
“With more people working from home this year putting extra strain on household energy bills, I encourage renters as well as homeowners to take part in this program so you can maximise your energy efficiency and save money.”
Due to the COVID-19 public health emergency, the ACT Home Energy Assessment Scheme and its assessors will work in accordance with current public health directions and advice. The home energy assessments will be offered in-home, by phone and online. Home visits will be done with correct physical distancing and hygiene practices.
If you are a renter who would like to save energy and money, visit actsmart.act.gov.au.
Quote attributable to Alison Rowe, CEO of the Australian Energy Foundation
“The Australian Energy Foundation is delighted to be working with the ACT Government to develop new tools and deliver more home energy assessments for rental homes in the ACT. We know this program will help renters to reduce their energy costs and keep their homes more comfortable all year around.”