The Renewable Remote Power Generation Program (RRPGP), which closed to new applications in all states except Western Australia on 22 June 2009, provided generous rebates on solar power and other forms of renewable energy systems to people in areas of Australia not close to a main grid.
Rebates of up to 50 per cent of the price of equipment were available to applicants that complied with the eligibiliSolar Credits Programty requirements.
The RRPGP was replaced by the Solar Credits Program, which in its current form offers far less financial assistance.
The abrupt closure of the RRPGP created an uproar in rural communities; with many people who were about to purchase equipment suddenly no longer able to afford to install an off grid solar power system and instead continuing to rely on fossil fuel based power generation.
When the original program was axed, the government committed to a review of the situation – and that time has finally arrived.
The Council of Australian Governments (COAG) will be reviewing the potential for introducing a measure to provide additional support to off-grid renewable generation and are encouraging input from individuals, businesses and organisations to inform the review process.
The RET COAG Review Terms of Reference state that the Review will consider whether the Solar Credits or a similar mechanism under the RET should be used to provide incentives for off-grid renewable generation, and the extent to which it would benefit remote communities
The COAG Renewable Energy Sub Group has released a discussion paper seeking input on the issues being considered. All submissions are due close of business 30 October 2009 and submissions should utilise the templates provided here to address the questions raised in the discussion paper.
Don’t have time to make a formal submission? Have your say in Energy Matters’ Forum!
