A joint state and federal government project aims to upgrade thousands of social housing homes in New South Wales.
The aim of the project – which partners with 22 community housing providers across the state – is to improve energy efficiency in more than 2,300 homes by providing renewable and smart energy features.
At a cost of $18 million, the upgrades include:
- rooftop solar panels and shared solar systems
- reverse cycle air conditioning
- energy-efficient hot water systems
- ceiling insulation, window shading and draught proofing
- LED lighting and ceiling fans.
“Upgrading solar and energy efficiency in social housing is all about lasting cost-of-living relief that makes houses cheaper to run and more comfortable to live in, as well as cutting emissions,” Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said.
“Cooler homes in the hot months and warmer homes in winter lock in lasting bill relief and protection from international energy price spikes,” he added.
NSW Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe said thousands of the state’s community housing residents “will benefit from lower bills, more comfortable homes and a reduced carbon footprint thanks to these upgrades.”
The upgrades are direct government action to help people who need it most, said NSW Minister for Housing Rose Jackson. “People in social housing deserve homes that are safe, liveable and energy-efficient. These upgrades are about cutting bills, cutting emissions, and delivering a better quality of life.”
All works are expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
The project is part of a $175 million program to upgrade around 24,000 social housing homes in NSW by mid-2027.
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