New rebates for Australians wishing to install solar panels.

Malcom Turnbull, Minister for the Environment and Water Resources, announced yesterday that the Australian Photovoltaic Rebate Program (PVRP) would receive an additional $150 million dollars of funding in the 2007-08 budget.

The additional funding will support a doubling of the rebate for solar panels installed on homes to a maximum of $8000. This means Australian could have an Energy Matters Solar Powered Micro-Generation System installed on their house for less than $6000. Without the rebates this system would typically cost $14,000.

The funding also includes schemes to support the installation of solar panels on schools, and the design and installation of solar systems on community, commercial, iconic and industrial buildings.

"Many Australians want to do their bit for the environment and reduce the impact of climate change," said Mr Turnbull.

"The program makes solar power more affordable by providing thousands of Australians with rebates up to $8,000 for installing solar panels in their homes," Mr Turnbull added.

"This increase in funding to the PVRP is expected to more than double the number of rooftop solar power systems installed throughout the country over the next five years. It is expected that around 14,000 households will be able to access rebates through the Scheme," says Mr Turnbull.

With enough funding to provide solar power to 14,000 homes and the large demand for renewable energy, funding will not last for long! We encourage interested parties to "get in quick" while there is still funding available under this new rebate.

For more information about nation-wide installation of a residential solar energy system, please contact Energy Matters on 1300 727 151 or visit www.energymatters.com.au. For community and commercial systems contact Apollo Energy on 03 9697 1950.