Negotiations well advanced for gas rebate scheme

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said today the Coalition should throw its support behind the State Government’s gas rebate scheme.

The Minister said negotiations with the eight retailers on the administration of the scheme were well advanced.

“Naturally it’s a big job to coordinate agreements with all the retailers and I appreciate their cooperation.

“The rebate will be credited to the customer’s gas bill which is the most cost-effective and efficient way to distribute the rebate.

“Householders will reap the rewards of the rebate and the community will benefit from the use of more cleaner, greener appliances,” he said.

The Minister said under the scheme, households that convert certain existing electrical appliances to gas appliances would be eligible for a rebate of up to $500 to help with the installation of gas.

“The gas rebate scheme will help households become greener and cleaner, which will in turn lead to valuable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

“We announced the scheme as an election commitment in September last year and the rebate will apply from that date.

“The money’s there. It was always intended to launch the scheme after the rebate was up and running. This has not changed,” Mr Wilson said.

The Department of Mines and Energy has advised that there are about 100 potential gas rebate recipients on its books. Retailers have also received calls from interested customers.

“Eligible customers will get their rebate backdated from 7 September last year, the day the policy was announced. That was always our intention.

“Instead of making mischief, Mr Seeney should throw his support behind this policy.

“Natural gas and LPG retailers support the gas rebate scheme. If Mr Seeney is the only knocker, you have to wonder why.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819