The first Canberrans will be able to access the ACT's sustainable household scheme from this week.
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Registered users will be able to take part in a pilot program of the scheme after arrangements were finalised between the ACT government and loan provider, Brighte.
The scheme allows for households to take out interest-free loans of up to $15,000 from the government to help meet the initial costs of purchasing solar panels, battery storage systems or electric vehicles.
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the $150 million scheme would lead to a greater emphasis on renewable technology in Canberra.
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"The scheme will ensure that more Canberra households can benefit from a zero-emission future by helping with the upfront costs of investment such as rooftop solar panels and household battery storage systems," Mr Barr said.
"The scheme will also be a significant boost to our local renewable energy sector."
Loans for the scheme will be available for between $2000 and $15,000, with more than 5000 households already expressing an interest in taking part.
A limited number of homes that have already taken part in an Actsmart workshop were invited to be the first people to participate in the pilot program.
The full scheme will be rolled out later in 2021, where it will be opened to all eligible households.
Loans for the scheme will be provided by Australian start-up company Brighte, which has been backed by Atlassian billionaire Mike Cannon-Brookes.
The company was founded in 2015 and have provided more than $900 million in loans for home energy and home improvements.
Founder and chief executive Katherine McConnell said it was the first time a program such as the scheme had been put out for a competitive tender.
"[This] is important for the continued growth of an innovative and competitive renewable financing sector and delivering value to households," she said.
"Our innovative digital financing offering, together with our network of trusted partners, will deliver a great experience for households across the ACT."
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