Thursday 18/12/2008 Page: 37
MORE households will qualify for up to $7500 to install solar panels after changes to a Federal Government rebate. The Government yesterday announced it would scrap an unpopular means test, which restricted the rebate to households earning less than $100,000. The means tested rebate was worth up to $8000. Under the new system, to operate from July next year, the rebate will be smaller but everyone - households, businesses and community groups - can access it, regardless of income.The maximum rebate for an average sized 1.5 kW system will be about $7500. A smaller 1 kW system will attract a rebate of about $5000. Rebate values may fluctuate and will decline from 2012. The Government came under attack from environmentalists, some solar-industry chiefs and the Federal Opposition for introducing the means test in this year's Budget.
It was seen as discouraging some people from going green, and a step backwards for the solar industry. Environment Minister Peter Garrett, in announcing the changes, said people loved solar energy. "Australians want to do their bit to take action on climate change," he said.
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