Rebates And Incentives To Help You Save Money On Your Air Con
With energy bills soaring and the cost of living on the rise, Australian households have expressed concerns around the cost of upgrading appliances. But what if we told you that upgrading your air conditioner could save you money? Thanks to government programs such as the VEU (Victorian Energy Upgrades) and ESS (Energy Savers Scheme in NSW), now might be the perfect time to make the switch to a more energy-efficient system
To reduce emissions, many state governments are providing consumers with a variety of incentives to help reduce the cost associated with purchasing new, energy efficient Air Conditioning units. Upfront Government rebates provide savings when purchasing and installing new units. Designed to encourage consumers to update old, and often inefficient existing systems to new models, they provide the perfect (and immediate) incentive make the switch and enjoy considerable savings.
With so many different programs available, which can vary across different states and territories, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and not understand what might be available depending on your current circumstances. ‘Who do I talk to? How much am I entitled to?’ are all valid questions. The below summary covers some of the programs that may be available in your state to help you get started.
Government Rebates – VEU (Victoria)
In Victoria customers can receive a rebate from the Victorian Energy Upgrades program or VEU. To be eligible for the program you must be a Victorian resident, and your upgrade must be carried out by an Accredited Provider or AP.
Upgrading to a new energy efficient split system such as our high efficiency AvantiPlus® could see you eligible for hundreds of dollars in rebates, while changing your old gas ducted heater to and efficient ducted solution such as our FDUA 14.0kW ducted system could earn you thousands (subject to the upgrade being completed and your location). These government rebates make upgrading older less efficient systems a more affordable solution. To maximise savings, select high energy saving models and ensure you work with an accredited installer.
Information on rebate amounts and approved products can be found on the VEU website: https://www.esc.vic.gov.au/victorian-energy-upgrades/about-victorian-energy-upgrades-program
Government Rebates – ESS (NSW)
In NSW, the Energy Savings Scheme or ESS provides and upfront discount when you upgrade and install energy efficient air conditioners. With incentives of between $340-$730 depending on unit being installed, it can save NSW residents money on new AC System such as our Award Winning Bronte® Series (6.3kW-9.5kW).
The incentive is available to NSW residents who use an accredited supplier.
Your accredited supplier will be able to provide the rebate as an upfront discount on the quote provided to purchase and install your new unit saving your hundreds.
Please visit the NESS website for the latest information: https://www.energy.nsw.gov.au/nsw-plans-and-progress/regulation-and-policy/energy-security-safeguard/energy-savings-scheme
ACT Programs
Sustainable Household Scheme (ACT)
ACT customers may be able to secure a low-interest loan to improve their home’s energy efficiency. The program allows eligible homeowners to borrow up to $15,000 to purchase energy efficient products including electric heating and colling systems such a new air-conditioner. You have up to 10 years to repay it (terms and conditions apply). This is a low-interest loan, with a 3% interest rate and no upfront costs or fees.
Please visit: https://www.climatechoices.act.gov.au/policy-programs/sustainable-household-scheme for full eligibility criteria and details.
Home Energy Support Program (ACT)
The Home Energy Support Program provides up to $5,000 in rebates and an optional $10,000 interest-free loan for eligible ACT homeowners to install reverse cycle air conditioners. To be eligible, you must hold a valid Australian concession card, own and occupy the property, and have the approved products installed. The official Climate Choices website provides more details on eligibility and available rebates for homeowners.
Please visit: https://www.climatechoices.act.gov.au/policy-programs/home-energy-support-rebates-for-homeowners
South Australia – Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme
In South Australia, as of July 2023 law was passed that all new air conditioners installed are required to have a Demand Response Enabling Device. Currently it’s voluntary for customers to sign-up, however DRED allows your electricity provider to manage your energy use during peak times. Financial incentives are available to customers who choose to participate in these programs and are available through the Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme (REPS).
Find out more here: https://www.escosa.sa.gov.au/industry/reps/overview
Ready to take the Step and Save?
Programs and government incentives are always evolving and being updated. To make sure you’re making the smart choice when it comes to saving money for updating your heating and cooling, we encourage you to visit the relevant government or energy retailer website to ensure you have the latest information on applicable incentives, eligibility or to find approved products and installers.
Finally, the best savings come from having new and more energy efficient air conditioners available to more consumers. Upgrading to higher efficiency products reduces your energy consumption saving you at bill time and making units cheaper to run. Replacing older cooling and heating solutions such as gas will also help you do your bit to help reduce emissions and your carbon footprint.
Take the first step towards a new Air Conditioning unit.