The NSW Government has launched its $557 million Home Energy Saver Program, combining interest-free finance and targeted discounts to help households install energy-saving technologies that have often been out of reach because of upfront costs.
Available from 17 June, the program offers zero-interest loans of up to $15,000 for eligible households to install upgrades including rooftop solar, batteries, insulation, reverse-cycle air conditioning, induction cooktops, heat pump water heaters, EV chargers, ceiling fans and double glazing. Eligible households can repay the loans over a period of up to 10 years.
The program is open to owner-occupiers and landlords with a combined annual taxable household income of up to $210,000. According to the NSW Government, the loan component represents a $480 million commitment and is expected to support more than 32,000 households.
Alongside the loans, discounts of up to $4,000 will become available later in 2026 for households with a combined annual income of up to $80,000 and eligible concession card holders. Renters will also be able to access discounts, subject to landlord approval for upgrades.
Industry welcomes expanded access
The Smart Energy Council welcomed the announcement, describing it as a measure that could help more households participate in home electrification and energy generation.
Smart Energy Council Chief Executive Officer David McElrea attended the launch alongside NSW Premier Chris Minns, Energy Minister Penny Sharpe and representatives from industry.
Mr McElrea said the program addresses one of the biggest barriers facing households considering energy upgrades, stating: “This is a government that gets it. They get the benefits of home electrification. They get the benefits of renewable energy. They know that’s the best way that we can address the cost-of-living crisis.”
Energy Minister Penny Sharpe said the initiative was designed to help households reduce energy costs while making home electrification more accessible.
“The Home Energy Saver Program is really about helping people take control of their energy bills,” Minister Sharpe said. “It’s electrification of the home, plus solar and batteries – that’s probably the best way to think about it.”
Financing partners and delivery arrangements
The program will be delivered through a mix of government support and private sector participation.
Smart Energy Council members Brighte and Plenti have been selected as financing partners and will administer the loan component of the program. According to the NSW Government, Brighte and Plenti will assess applications, approve loans and manage customer accounts, while approved suppliers will deliver the upgrades and provide quotes.
Guidance for businesses and installers
With applications for loans now open and discount applications due to commence later this year, the Smart Energy Council has arranged a member briefing with the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water and the NSW Energy Security Corporation. Access details through the Smart Energy Council membership portal here.
The session will provide information on program delivery, financing arrangements and eligibility requirements, giving installers, suppliers and service providers a clearer understanding of how the initiative will operate.
For businesses involved in solar, batteries, electrification and home energy upgrades, the program creates a larger pool of eligible customers while linking household demand directly to accessible finance.
