The Victorian government is injecting A$4 million (US$2.7 million) into a new initiative designed to accelerate the adoption of rooftop solar and electric hot water systems across the state. The funding, part of the Residential Electrification Grants program, aims to support Victoria’s strategic shift towards all-electric homes, a policy underscored by its recent ban on gas connections in new residential builds.
Managed by Solar Victoria, the program streamlines the rebate process by awarding grants directly to organizations for bulk installations. To qualify, providers must install clean energy technology in batches of at least 50 new or existing homes. Once installations are verified, the full value of the rebates—up to $1,400 for solar panels and $1,000 for hot water systems—must be passed directly to the homeowners, ensuring they receive the maximum financial benefit.
This investment builds on the tremendous success of previous state initiatives. Rooftop solar has already become Victoria’s single largest source of electricity generation capacity, with programs since 2018 supporting the installation of over 2,273 MW of residential solar PV. Victorian Energy Minister Lily D’Ambrosio emphasized that the new grants are a key part of this ongoing transition. “The Residential Electrification Grants program aims to expand solar adoption by extending its reach and scope, promoting innovative use of solar energy,” she stated.
Seven providers have been selected to lead the initial projects, including AusNet Electricity Services, Henley Arch, Next Generation Electrical, Global Energy Solutions, Solahart Industries, Solargain PV, and UPowr. Specific projects include an initiative by Global Energy Solutions to equip a 100-home subdivision in Moe, while network operator AusNet will focus on upgrading appliances and installing solar for vulnerable customers.
The program has seen overwhelming demand, with Solar Victoria receiving 40 expressions of interest requesting a total of $39 million. This high level of interest in the investment signals strong industry support for the government’s vision of creating a sustainable, energy-efficient future for Victorian households.
Sources for Victoria Invests $4M to Boost Residential Solar
- Rooftop solar and storage biannual report – Clean Energy Council
- [PDF] SOLAR REPORT – Australian Energy Council
- [PDF] Victoria’s Renewable Energy Targets – 2024/25 Progress Report
- Victoria allocates US$2.7 million for rooftop solar rebate scheme
- Why 4 million Australians already made the switch to solar
