A re-elected Turnbull Government will help community groups in Hasluck to lower their power bills and play their part in reducing Australia’s emissions by providing a total of $100,000 towards the cost of installing solar.
Federal Member for Hasluck, Ken Wyatt AM MP, said the Solar Communities program will provide funding for groups across Australia to install rooftop solar PV, solar hot water and battery storage systems for community owned buildings.
“I am pleased to announce the Kalamunda RSL will receive $15,000 to assist with the cost of installing solar panels and battery storage,” Mr Wyatt said.
“The Kalamunda RSL is a fantastic community organisation that provides a forum for ex-servicemen and women to come together and engage in many social activities.”
“As a volunteer organisation, every dollar they can save on daily expenses can be redirected to the crucial services they provide to the community.”
“That is why we have committed to reducing their electricity costs with a grant to fund the installation of solar panels on their hall.”
The Coalition recognises the important role community and household solar plays in Australia’s transition to a low emissions economy with an increase in renewable energy.
Other community groups in Hasluck that will receive grants include:
• Gidgegannup Equestrian Centre ($6,000)
• Forrestfield United Soccer Club ($15,000)
• Marloo Theatre ($13,000)
• Mundaring Arts Centre ($13,000)
• Darlington Sports and Recreation Association ($13,000)
• Gidgegannup Recreation Club ($10,000)
• Liddelow Homestead Arts & Crafts Club ($15,000)
Environment Minister Greg Hunt said community organisations such as churches, sporting clubs and scouts will also be able to apply for funding of up to $15,000.
“Around 350 community groups are expected to benefit from the expanded program, with $5 million available,” Minister Hunt said.
“Unlike Labor, the Coalition is committed to tackling climate change without hiking up power bills for community groups, families and businesses and putting Australian jobs at risk.”
“Bill Shorten’s carbon tax is a tax on electricity and will hurt community groups across Australia.”
By contrast, the Coalition is committed to supporting community groups through the expanded Solar Communities program.
“Under the Turnbull Government, half a million households and businesses have already made the switch to solar,” Minister Hunt said.
Australia has the highest proportion of households with solar panels in the world – about 15 per cent.
The Australian Government’s Renewable Energy Target provides for an average rebate for a solar system of $3000, or about 30 per cent of the installation cost.
We have also established a $250 million Community Housing Program to help lower costs for low income families and residents through the construction of up to 1,000 new energy efficiency homes.
We have established a $1 billion Clean Energy Innovation Fund to support the latest technology which will transform our renewable energy use over the coming decade.
Only the Coalition is committed to tackling climate change without a job-destroying carbon tax.