The increasing rate of residential solar power installations across Geelong is set quicken as newly subsidised units appear on local rooftops.
Solar Victoria figures show that 1655 units were installed across greater Geelong, Borough of Queenscliffe, Torquay and Anglesea in the past financial year.
Households in the area installed 837 units in the first half and 918 in the second, an increase of almost 10 per cent.
Solar Victoria anticipates a further surge this financial year following the introduction of the State Government’s residential rebates last August.
Households with joint incomes less than $180,000 and homes valued under $3 million can claim back half the cost of new solar panels, up to a maximum rebate of $2225.
A four-kilowatt unit could save the “average” household $890 a year, Solar Victoria said.
“Those receiving a rebate can expect to repay the cost of the solar panels through savings in about five years.”
Solar Victoria, an agency of State Government, urged householders to act on the program before it closed next June.
“Confirmation of your eligibility for a rebate can only be provided by Solar Victoria.
“Residents should ensure they have checked their eligibility for the program, and that of their proposed installer, before signing a contract. Rebates are only available for quality approved products, installed by accredited installers, and all interested residents are encouraged to check the Solar Victoria website if they are contacted about solar deals they don’t trust.
“Residents can apply for eligibility, learn more about the rebates or seek accredited solar installers through Solar Victoria by visiting solar.vic.gov.au.”
