Cheaper Home Batteries Program

Templeman contrasted the current program with the previous government's record, noting that 24 out of 28 coal plants had accelerated closures under the Coalition, leading to higher wholesale energy prices. Templeman reported that around 6,000 solar batteries were installed in Macquarie, providing 184,002 kilowatt hours of usable capacity and helping families save up to $1,000 annually. Templeman highlighted that batteries provided backup power during storms and reduced pressure on the grid during peak times, benefiting all consumers.

Boele welcomed the motion, stating that uptake had outpaced expectations with over 1,000 batteries installed daily. Boele cited a constituent who reduced monthly electricity bills from $525 to an average of $126 in winter and $40 in summer after installing a battery. Boele argued that the rapid adoption demonstrated public appetite for electrification and called for the government to legalise plug-in solar panels for renters and apartment dwellers to ensure broader access to clean energy savings.

Fernando stated that 3,729 solar batteries were fitted in Holt, delivering more than 116,000 kilowatt hours of usable capacity. He cited Australian Energy Market Operator data indicating that residences equipped with batteries consumed 73 per cent less power from the grid during evening peaks than those relying solely on solar. Fernando argued the initiative aided local electricians and small enterprises while stabilising the grid, contrasting this with the Coalition's prior inability to handle coal plant shutdowns and energy price spikes.

Ryan commended the program but argued that renters and apartment dwellers were excluded from the benefits, as only 11 per cent of rentals had solar compared to 44 per cent of owner-occupied homes. Ryan called for the government to expand the Household Energy Upgrades Fund to incentivise landlords to install solar and batteries. Ryan also urged the legalisation of portable plug-in solar panels, which could save capital city residents between $226 and $372 annually, and proposed a nationwide goal for rental properties to achieve full electrification by 2040.