Delays in solar cash

Daily Telegraph
Wednesday 28/1/2009 Page: 13

A FEDERAL Government scheme to promote solar energy by offering rebates to homeowners is being marred by long delays, the industry claims. solar energy installers said yesterday was now taking almost six months before money was approved under the Solar Homes and Communities Plan. When the scheme promoting the alternative energy was introduced, home owners were told it would take only 12 weeks to get their rebates, now of up to $8000.

Solar installers have been delaying billing their customers until they get their rebate, but now they face cash flow problems as customers wait first for approval to fit solar energy panels, then for verification of the installation. "The whole process has just blown out, for it to take 20 weeks is ridiculous," said Modern Solar CEO Laurie Mallia.