QUEENSLANDERS have two weeks to buy a new energy efficient fridge, washing machine or air conditioner and qualify for rebates of up to $300.
Energy minister Dr Anthony Lynham encouraged householders who need to replace old clunkers to join 50,000 households in line for the rebate.
“Nearly 40,000 Queensland households have already saved money, and are now saving energy and driving down their power bills, thanks to our rebate scheme,” he said.
“Every month since this started, 10,000 Queenslanders have pocketed the rebate, but all good things come to an end.
“The cut-off date for purchases is June 3, so there’s not much time left to consider making the switch to a four-star or above energy-efficient appliance.
“Swapping to an energy efficient air-conditioner can save a household up to $100 a year off an electricity bill, or up to $50 a year with an energy efficient washing machine or fridge.
“If you’re thinking about replacing your old appliance, or simply buying a new appliance I encourage you to do it now – before June 3 – while this rebate is on offer,” Dr Lynham said.
Assistant state development minister Julieanne Gilbert said it was encouraging to see the rebate had been taken right up across the state.
“This is great news because energy efficient appliances are a practical way to lower household electricity bills, and the savings last as long as the life of the appliance,” she said.
“The rapid uptake of the rebate has also provided a fantastic boost for regional economies and local appliance retailers and small businesses.
“Retailers have seen a rapid increase in demand for energy efficient appliances since the rebate opened in January.”
The rebate is part of the Queensland government’s Affordable Energy Plan, which delivers a $50 annual dividend paid to every household for the next two years and a two-year price cap that will see power prices not rise above inflation for the next two years.
Dr Lynham said 28 per cent of the rebates paid to date had gone to residents with concession cards, on top of of the electricity concessions already in place to help concession card holders save on their energy bills.
To receive the rebate visit www.qld.gov.au/appliancerebate for full eligibility requirements and to check if the appliance you are considering buying is eligible for the rebate.
Households thinking about purchasing an energy efficient appliance need to buy the appliance by June 3 and have the application in within 30 days from date of purchase. Applications close on July 3.
