The Sustainable Household Scheme offers zero-interest loans to help homeowners in the ACT make their homes more energy-efficient. Eligible homeowners can borrow between $2,000 and $15,000 with no upfront costs or fees, and they have up to 10 years to repay the loan. This initiative is designed to help reduce the environmental impact of households by making it easier to invest in sustainable products like solar panels, household battery storage systems, and energy-efficient appliances.

To participate, homeowners must meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the Scheme Guidelines and be approved by Brighte, the loan provider. This includes attending a free one-hour workshop to help participants make informed energy efficiency choices. The scheme also extends to community groups, offering them the same loan amounts for similar energy-efficient products.

There are no establishment fees or account-keeping costs associated with the loans, and early repayment is allowed without penalty. However, if payments are missed, the loan provider may charge a fee. For those with a Pensioner Concession Card or similar benefits, additional rebates may be available through the Home Energy Support program, potentially adding up to $5,000 in support.

The scheme is part of the ACT Government’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2045. By upgrading to more energy-efficient systems, households can not only reduce their environmental footprint but also potentially lower their energy bills. The Sustainable Household Scheme Dashboard tracks investments in these sustainable upgrades across the territory, providing transparency and encouraging more residents to participate.

Want to learn more about the ACT Government’s Sustainable Household Scheme?

To learn more about the eligibility criteria and further information please visit the Sustainable Household Scheme – Climate Choices