In its drive to encourage property owners and investors to build energy-efficient homes, the federal and state governments of Australia are offering rebates to those who install environmentally friendly features in their property.
Your property can generate clean energy by installing renewable energy systems. These include solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, solar water heaters, or air source heat pumps. When your property’s renewable energy system generates more power than it uses, the government will pay you for the excess electricity in the form of small-scale technology certificates (STCs). You can then sell these STCs for cash to businesses such as power retailers, who have a legal obligation to buy the STC’s to meet their renewable energy obligations.
Aside from being able to sell your STCs, you may also obtain other incentives such as feed-in tariffs when you provide your local grid with the excess power you generated. The tariff typically differs depending on your state and your local electricity provider. However, keep in mind that unless the electricity account is under your name, you may not directly receive the tariff. To find out which rebates you may be able to take advantage of, please visit www.yourenergysavings.gov.au/rebates.
Other incentives on offer may include rebates for using LED downlights or compact fluorescent bulbs, water-saving showerheads, energy-efficient cooling and heating systems, switching from wood heaters or open fireplaces to mains-supplied gas heaters, and connecting your hot water or pool pump to an economy electricity tariff.
More Reasons to Go Energy-Efficient
Aside from the rebates and other environmental benefits, another compelling reason to consider renewable energy systems is your cost savings. Using LEDs for example, has been proven to reduce your electricity costs significantly and they often last longer than traditional lighting systems.
There’s also the possibility of attracting a wider range of tenants, particularly those that are environmentally minded or cost conscious. You will be especially visible among property buyers or tenants who are looking for an eco-friendly home, as it doesn’t just lower electricity costs, but it also minimises their carbon footprint.
If you’re currently exploring energy-efficient options for your property or you are in the market for an investment property, speak to one of our brokers today.