Save energy & dollars as appliance rebate applications open

From tomorrow Queenslanders can jump online and apply for rebates of up to $300 on energy efficient appliances to save on their electricity bills.

Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said first rebates should be flowing back into the first applicants’ bank accounts by the end of February.

“People who have already bought new energy-efficient fridges, air-cons and washing machines since 1 January, and have registered for the rebate, have 30 days from tomorrow to get those applications in,” he said.

“Of course, you have to meet the criteria to receive the rebate.

“If you haven’t bought one already, I’d encourage householders to consider buying appliances with at least a four-star energy rating.

“It’s is one of the best ways to save on your electricity bill, and that’s why this rebate is part of our $2 billion Affordable Energy Plan – to help make Queenslanders’ power bills more affordable.”

Energy Efficiency Council chief executive officer Luke Menzel said that big appliances humming away in the background were often massive energy hogs, and that new models with a high star rating could be much cheaper to run.

“Upgrading to a new, more efficient fridge or air conditioner can be one of the easiest ways of cutting your energy bill,” he said.

“It’s great news that the Palaszczuk Government is helping Queenslanders upgrade their appliances so families can lock in those savings as quickly as possible.”

Member for Mount Ommaney Jess Pugh said families in her local area could save up to $700 per year simply by replacing a 30-year-old fridge. 

“My message to my constituents is to look hard at this offer – especially after the week we’ve had with the air-cons blazing,” she said.

The rebates apply to new, eligible four-star or higher appliances purchased from 1 January, 2018: $200 for washing machines; $250 for fridges and $300 for air conditioners. Rebates are limited to one per household.

The rebates are part of the government’s $2 billion Affordable Energy Plan to help Queenslanders save on their power bills.

The plan includes

• $50 a year off every household bill over the next two years.
• an annual discount for regional Ergon customers who take up Ergon’s direct debit Easy Pay Rewards payment options --  $75 for households and $120 for small businesses. 
• ensuring electricity prices for typical households and small business remain below inflation on average over the next two years.

To apply, visit qld.gov.au/appliancerebate. Applying requires:

-          a scan or photo of the tax invoice or receipt for the appliance purchased

-          your National Metering Identifier number from your electricity account

-          the appliance make and model number

-          your bank account details

Customers who have already signed up to be notified will receive an email or text advising them that applications have opened.

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Media inquiries: Jan Martin 0439 341 314