Eligible households in New South Wales can now access zero-interest loans of up to AU$15,000 to install major energy-saving upgrades under a new cost-of-living relief package launched by the state government.
The AU$557 million Home Energy Saver program aims to help families overcome the prohibitive upfront costs of green technology.
Under the initiative, eligible households can finance rooftop solar, home batteries, insulation, ceiling fans, and reverse-cycle air conditioning, paying the balance back over 10 years.
The AU$480 million zero-interest loan scheme is open to households with a combined taxable income of up to AU$210,000, a move expected to assist more than 32,000 families across the state.
This will allow eligible households to pay off up to AU$15,000 in upgrades over 10 years rather than upfront.
Later this year, the government will expand the program to include a AU$77 million targeted discount scheme. This second tier will provide rebates of up to AU$4,000 for concession card holders and families with a combined annual income under AU$80,000. These discounts will also be accessible to renters who secure their landlord’s permission to modernise their properties.
Premier Chris Minns acknowledged that while the upgrades would not solve every financial hurdle currently facing NSW residents, they offer practical, long-term relief.
“We know energy bills are putting pressure on families right now,” Minns said.
“For many households, the upfront cost of these upgrades has simply been too high. We’re stepping in to help where we can, so more families can access technology that lowers their bills.”
Just over half of all houses in NSW are already equipped with solar panels, and roughly 13,000 new household batteries are being installed each month.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe said the program will give more families the opportunity for energy-saving upgrades.
“Every household that upgrades to more efficient technology is playing a part in NSW’s energy future,” Sharpe said.
“Making these technologies more accessible helps more households enjoy a cooler home in summer, a warmer home in winter, and smaller power bills every month.”
Smart Energy Council CEO David McElrea backed the program, labelling it a major win for lower-income earners and renters who have historically been locked out of the renewable energy transition.
Applications for the zero-interest loans are now officially open.
