The NSW Government has launched its Consumer Energy Strategy, aiming to advance the use of renewables across state.
The strategy, a comprehensive plan, is designed to empower households and businesses to access energy-saving technologies like solar, batteries, and energy efficiency upgrades, ultimately reducing their energy bills and easing cost-of-living pressures.
Backed by $290 million in new funding and outlining 50 actions, the strategy was developed in response to recommendations from the independent Electricity Supply and Reliability Check Up commissioned by the NSW Government last year, which called for a dedicated consumer energy resources strategy.
Key initiatives announced in the strategy include:
A new home energy saver program with $238.9 million in financial support targeted towards eligible households to upgrade to energy-saving technologies. The program will be designed and rolled out by the end of 2025.
Introduction of new home energy ratings from 2025, providing renters and buyers with information about the cost of heating and cooling potential homes.
Setting the first targets in Australia for solar and battery uptake, virtual power plant participation, and installation safety. These targets include one million households and small businesses having access to both rooftop solar and battery systems by 2035, rising to nearly 1.5 million by 2050.
Improving the safety and reliability of installations by increasing the number of electrical safety inspectors.
Providing practical resources and outreach, including funding for community organisations, to help people make informed decisions about improving energy efficiency and cutting bills.
According to the State Government, the actions outlined in the strategy will build upon existing initiatives and contribute to the government’s vision for the future of energy in NSW, where all households and small businesses can enjoy the benefits of energy security, climate-friendly practices, improved health, and cost-of-living savings through energy-saving technologies.
The Consumer Energy Strategy comes in addition to the government’s $435.4 million allocation for annual energy bill rebates and debt relief, $200 million to support the roll-out of public EV charging stations, and $175 million to make energy-saving upgrades for 24,000 social housing homes.
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