Labor’s stunning win in the recent Victorian State Election is great news for anyone thinking about installing rooftop solar panels.
Today, the question regarding solar panel installation is not ‘Should you?’ but ‘Why wouldn’t you!’
That’s the message from MASH (More Australian Solar Homes), a not-for-profit community solar bulk-buy for homes in the Macedon Ranges and Mt Alexander Shires.
MASH helps make it easier – and more affordable – for householders to ‘go solar’ with an option that is well-proven and backed by councils.
Solar panel rebate expanded
When Premier Daniel Andrews introduced the Victorian Solar Homes program in August, he promised to expand it if his government was re-elected.
The program will now roll out to 650,000 homes, providing a rebate that covers up to $2,225 of the solar panel system cost for eligible households.
The typical payback time of solar panels is around 5-6 years on a 5.13kW MASH solar system.
This is if you use at least 50 per cent of the power you generate during the day time.
But with the Solar Homes rebate, the payback is around 3-4 years.
The Solar Homes program is under the supervision of Solar Victoria, and anyone interested in applying can complete the eligibility form on their website at www.solar.vic.gov.au. Only Solar Victoria can confirm your eligibility.
Future plans for renters and batteries
Although home owners will reap the immediate benefits of the Andrews Government election win, in mid-2019 three additional programs should become available.
These are rebates on solar panels for renters, interest-free solar loans and a rebate on the cost of a home battery worth up to $4,838.
MASH is not yet taking inquiries on these programs. However, it will keep the community informed through its website and local media.
MASH – the benefits of being part of a community bulk-buy
MASH selects its solar panel supplier and solar panels systems through a competitive public tender process overseen by the Alternative Technology Association.
The advantages of organising your solar panel installation through MASH include:
- Competitive prices due to bulk-buy
- Trusted advice from experts, inc public info meetings
- Excellent warranties on products
- Supplier vetted for integrity and reliability
- Community bonus – free 5kW solar system for community groups & schools for every 100 homes installed
Upcoming MASH Information Meetings:
- Gisborne Community Centre, Thursday 13 December, 6.30pm–8.00pm.
- Kyneton Mechanics Institute, Monday 17 December, 6.30pm–8.00pm.
Register for a quote or to attend an info meeting. Visit mash.org.au or call MASH on 1300 466 274.