Social housing solar and energy efficiency upgrades get a $500 million boost

The federal government announced over the weekend plans to expand the country’s Social Housing Energy Performance Initiative (SHEPI) with a $500 million investment designed to provide more than 100,000 social housing properties solar and other energy efficiency upgrades.

Originally designed as a $300 million initiative unveiled as part of the $1.7 billion Energy Savings Package from the 2023-24 Budget, SHEPI was to be rolled out over a four year period to some 60,000 homes.

Announced on Saturday, the $500 million expansion will help SHEPI reach more than 100,000 social housing properties around the country – which would account for nearly 25 per cent of Australia’s social housing.

The SHEPI program provides social housing residents with access to upgrades designed to reduce pressure on energy bills, as well as basic quality of life improvements that help residents keep homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer – a literal lifesaver for many.

Delivering a range of upgrades including thermal shell upgrades such as shading and insulation; installation of energy efficient appliances such as heating and cooling, hot water systems, ovens and cooktops; and residential renewable energy systems such as solar and batteries, SHEPI has been co-funded and designed in partnership with all state and territory governments.

These upgrades are expected to provide social housing homes with potential ongoing average energy bill saving of around $1,800 per year.

“The Albanese Government is making a real difference right now for social housing tenants, who are among the least able to afford energy efficiency upgrades, and yet most affected by energy costs,” said Josh Wilson, federal assistant minister for climate change and energy.

“Across the nation, the SHEPI is providing crucial upgrades to social housing stock which is reducing energy bills, keeping homes more liveable year-round, and lowering emissions.

“The cheapest form of energy is that which you don’t use in the first place – the SHEPI program is a prime example of the Albanese Government making a positive difference right now while building the foundation for a better future.”

The move was unsurprisingly warmly welcomed by the country’s social housing sector.

“This is an important investment that will improve the lives of thousands of people living in social housing who are struggling with extremely hot conditions and skyrocketing energy costs,” said Dr Cassandra Goldie, CEO of the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS).

“Home energy upgrades mean permanent and significant cuts to energy bills, healthier living conditions, and a significant reduction in carbon emissions.”