Renewable energy now more affordable

The Rural
Friday 11/4/2008 Page: 13

PEOPLE living away from the power grid will be able to get reliable solar power for half price thanks to a recent federal government initiative. Farms and households unable to connect to mains power are now eligible for a 50 per cent rebate on the setup cost of renewable energy systems up to $200,000. The move comes under a federal government scheme aimed at increasing the use of renewable generation in remote parts of Australia that presently rely on fossil fuel for electricity supply. Alex Manley from Solarco in Wagga said the rebate would help reduce the dependence on fossil fuels.

"With oil prices now at a record high of over $80 for a barrel more and more off grid power users which rely on diesel generators will consider going solar - due to this generous rebate," Mr Manley said. The Renewable Remote Power Generation Program (RRPGP) gives remote communities and industries access to clean, alternative energy sources like solar, wind and biomass. Applicants must prove that either the cost of connecting to the mains electricity grid exceeds $30.000, and/or that they reside more than one kilometre from the grid. Equipment used in installations must be brand new and must satisfy a minimum 450W peak output to obtain the rebate.

The RRPGP rebate is available for both new renewable generation systems and additions of new equipment to existing systems. Landowners already connected to mains grid power can apply for rebates on renewable energy systems under the Photovoltaic Rebate Program (PVRP) which provides up to $8000 on a new system and $5000 for additions to existing systems. Mr Manley said: "With such generous rebates the affordability and long-term financial benefits of our wide range of stand alone solar power systems is obvious. Our systems use specially designed coenergy components with some warranties lasting as long as 25 years."