Caz Heise, Independent candidate for Cowper, has today announced a commitment to address cost of living by supporting families, pensioners, renters and homeowners to reduce their power bills. 

“I’ve been hearing from households across our region about the financial challenges they’re facing. Recent research has found that the average household could save over $1,500 a year through relatively minor and low-cost energy efficiency measures,” Caz said.

“The research also shows that installing rooftop solar and batteries can save households another $1,500 annually, but upfront costs and long payback periods deter many families from making the switch, especially those struggling with the rising cost of living.”

To address this, I will support:

• Cheaper Solar and Batteries: Expand rebates to help households and businesses install solar panels and battery storage, lowering power bills and giving people more control over their energy.

• Affordable Energy Upgrades: Provide direct support for families to switch to cheaper, efficient electric appliances - like induction cooktops, heat pump hot water, and reverse-cycle air conditioning.

• Support for Renters and Low-Income Households: Introduce energy efficiency standards for new developments and incentives for landlords to upgrade properties with solar and better appliances -so renters don’t miss out.

“This is a critical way to tackle the cost of living crisis that is hurting so many people in our community,” Caz said, 

Caz also highlighted the inequities in access to household energy savings.

“The growing inequities in access to rooftop solar, battery storage, and energy efficiency upgrades are a major issue for our community. Those who can afford these investments are seeing significant cost savings, while renters, pensioners, and low-income households face skyrocketing power bills and cannot access these savings. 

Direct financial support is needed because another loan won’t work for people struggling to keep food on the table and cover ever-increasing bills.”

“Australia’s ageing coal plants are breaking down, causing price spikes, reliability issues, and pollution. The households that can afford rooftop solar, battery storage, and efficiency upgrades are seeing their power bills drop, while those who can’t afford the upfront investment are being left behind with skyrocketing costs.”

“The transition to cheaper, cleaner energy is well underway - wind and solar already generate 40% of Australia’s electricity and will exceed 50% next year. Now, we need to make sure that those who need it most, benefit first.”

“It has become increasingly clear that pensioners and vulnerable populations should be targeted for direct financial subsidies,” Caz emphasised. “We must ensure that everyone in our community has the opportunity to benefit from advancements in energy efficiency and renewable technology.”