Get help with your energy bills – Council encourages community to opt into free resources.

Wagga Wagga City Council is encouraging residents, community groups and local businesses to apply for current opportunities being offered by state government, which will help our local community to achieve net zero emissions goals.

The first offer up for grabs is a free three-kilowatt solar system for those receiving the Low-Income Household Rebate.

Homeowners can choose to swap their rebate for the installation of this free solar system, unlocking savings of up to $600 a year.

Council Net Zero Emissions Project Officer Hemendra Chaudhary says those who participate in the solar rebate swap will see savings in their energy bills that outweigh the Low-Income Household Rebate of $285 per year.

“Community members who decide to go for the rebate swap will forfeit their rebate for 10 years but will gain a lot more in savings from solar,” Mr Chaudhary said.

“Over 10 years the rebate amounts to $2850 which participants would be swapping for $6000 in savings. Solar panels have an average lifespan of 25 years, so homeowners will likely be reaping the benefits even after 10 years.

“This significant decision to transition to clean renewable energy will also help the community to achieve the net zero target by 2050. Currently, community energy usage accounts for 43% of the total community carbon emissions.”

To learn more about the Rebate Swap for Solar, head to the NSW Government website.

There is also opportunity for small and medium businesses within NSW to apply for the second round of Energy Efficiency Grants, which provides up to $25,000 for the purchase of energy efficient equipment.

“The grant will allow businesses to upgrade their equipment to higher energy efficient technologies, also bringing huge savings in their energy bills,” Mr Chaudhary said.

“The grant is very competitive and like last round, would exhaust in no time, even before the deadline. Grants will be awarded to those eligible on a first come, first served basis.”

Grant applications are open now until Monday 8 April 2024.

For more information about the grant opportunity, visit the Australian Government website.

“These kinds of opportunities that we are seeing greatly assists the community in our local net zero journey by reducing greenhouse gas emissions through their energy savings and energy efficiency practices,” Mr Chaudhary said.

“Council is  encouraging local community members, groups, and businesses to visit our community net zero page to read about more pathways that are available to engage in climate solutions.”