The second round of Victorian Solar Homes subsidies has rolled out, and the new financial year means a new way of applying for your Victorian solar panel subsidy.
Eligible households can still apply for $2,225 off the cost of a rooftop solar power system or 50 per cent of the system price (whichever is lowest).
However, the State Government, through Solar Victoria has now made the application process easier. In this 2019-2020 financial year, solar retailers will apply for an up-front subsidy under the new program, rather than householders.
How to apply for a Victorian solar panel subsidy
The Victorian Solar Homes program allows for 40,000 rooftop solar installations in the 2019-20 financial year.
Customers must get an initial solar quote from a registered solar provider. The provider then claims the Solar Homes subsidy and deducts it from the cost of the solar power system.
Applications should be made via the online portal on the Victorian Solar Homes website.
The up-front cost deduction brings the program into line with the federal government’s Small-Scale Technology Certificates scheme. This also offers a point-of-sale discount, details available here.
Some households can also apply for additional interest-free loans to further reduce the cost of their solar installation. Recipients must pay back the loan within four years.
Solar hot water systems and batteries also included
Solar battery discounts up to $4,838 are also available for purchase of battery brands like Tesla Powerwall 2 and Enphase.
Applicants must be owner-occupiers of properties value at under $3 million. Owners must also have a combined taxable income less than $180,000 per annum.
Case studies: Solar Homes helps young and old
The Solar Homes site shows how the program has helped Victorians cut their power bills.
Annalies Brandjes pays around $30 for her monthly electricity bill after installing a solar power system via the Solar Homes scheme.
This powers a townhouse on Melbourne’s fringe, often shared with four other members of her family when they’re not travelling.
Her father, Jan, improved the home’s energy efficiency before installation. However, energy use reduced by half once the solar panels were in place.
Meanwhile, self-funded retirees Peter and Di in Clifton Hill are also delighted to have a discounted solar installation. They’re eagerly awaiting their first full-quarter bill.
