SIMON Corbell says the ACT Government will trial rebates for efficient electric heating systems as part of the Wood Heater Replacement Program.

“Given the move toward 90% renewable energy by 2020 and the likelihood of gas prices increasing, the government has been investigating expansion of the Wood Heater Replacement Program to include the installation of efficient electric heating as an alternative to the current gas rebates,” Simon said.

“The trial, which from Monday 16 November will include a rebate for efficient electric systems alongside the current gas rebates, will be reviewed in mid 2016 to determine the future direction of the program.

“The review will also examine what new activities are offered by energy retailers through their obligations under the ACT Government’s Energy Efficiency Improvement Scheme.

“The electric heater rebate component of the Wood Heater Replacement Program is funded through the Environment and Planning Directorate and offered as an alternative to the gas installations being offered and funded by ActewAGL.

“The replacement program combined with the other government initiatives has resulted in a demonstrated improvement in the ACT’s air quality as shown in the 2014 ACT Air Quality Report.

“This trial is a practical way to combine the government’s renewable energy initiatives with its strong commitment to improving the air quality within the ACT,” Mr Corbell said.

Information on the Wood Heater Replacement program can be found on the Actsmart Sustainability Hub at actsmart.act.gov.au