Marcus Richards
According to data released by the Queensland Competition Authority (QCA) for 2010–2011, residential consumers in QLD were paying 54% more than their interstate counterparts and 20% more than the national average.
The government has responded with a range of assistance programs to help low-income earners and families meet the increasing costs of household energy.
There are several factors to consider when you compare energy plans QLD. Your savings will vary depending on total usage and the energy provider you choose.
Popular Government Schemes
The following are all currently available rebates and concessions in Queensland designed to reduce your electricity bills. Many of these schemes have complex eligibility criteria, so it is advisable to check with your provider or government websites before applying for any plans listed below.
Queensland pensioners may be eligible for GST inclusive electricity rebates of up to $340 and RNGR rebates of up to $76.5 annually. You may also check for life support concessions and other similar concessions if a resident is on life support.
Powering Up: Queensland Energy Savings Scheme (EES) and Energising QLD
You can save up to $500 for high-efficiency electric hot water systems and other energy-efficient appliances. For those who qualify, the QLD Energy Savings Scheme provides up to $500 towards the cost of a variety of sustainable energy products.
Eligible applicants can claim up to $500 for any one of the following measures.
- High-efficiency electric hot water systems.
- Photovoltaic solar systems installation costs only (up to 100% rebate).
- Insulation works up to a maximum of 250 m².
- Ceiling insulation for roof spaces with an area less than 150 m.
- Exterior or under-roof insulation works (excluding roofs with a pitch of fewer than 25 degrees).
- Installation of double-glazed windows and doors up to a maximum rebate of $300.
- Energy-efficient gas heating equipment where the existing gas heating system is over ten years old (However, only a 50% rebate is provided for this measure).
- Replacement of an existing wood, coal, or oil heating system up to the costs of a 5 kW gas ducted heating system installation (max. rebate $1,500).
- Disconnection of an electricity supply where it is deemed unsafe or inefficient by a registered electrician.
Powercheck Discounts and Power Saving Rebates for Appliances
The Powercheck scheme provides an additional 10% discount on the total costs of energy-efficient products purchased for your home, including those covered by the Energy Savings Scheme.
You can save up to $200 with this scheme. The list of eligible items is as follows.
- Ceiling insulation.
- Exterior or under-roof insulation works.
- Double-glazed windows and doors.
- Energy-efficient gas heating equipment where the existing gas heating system is over ten years old.
- Insulation works up to a maximum of 250 m².
- High-efficiency electric hot water systems.
- Photovoltaic solar systems installation costs only (up to 100% rebate).
- Replacement of an existing wood, coal, or oil heating system up to the costs of a 5 kW gas ducted heating system installation (max. rebate $1,500)
Wrapping Up
Consider the rebates and concessions you may be eligible for under different energy plans when you compare energy plans in QLD. As prices continue to climb, electricity rebates and concessions are becoming an ever more helpful tool for Queenslanders looking to reduce their household energy costs.
