Leaders across Western Sydney welcome NSW government’s announcement to fund installation of solar

Today, the NSW government has announced it will support households across Western Sydney to access solar power by funding the upfront cost of solar installation, making it easier for families to take up the NSW government’s no-interest loan solar scheme.  

 “Removing the barrier of the massive upfront costs of installing solar will be a relief to families across Western Sydney. It will allow families to access clean, affordable solar that will slash household bills and make it possible to turn on the air-con on really hot days without facing a massive energy bill,” said Ms Thuy Nguyen, Organising Lead of Voices for Power.  

Voices for Power is a project of Sydney Alliance. Over four years, this project has brought together diverse leaders from across Western Sydney and beyond to advocate for clean, affordable energy for all.  

“Over the last four years, we have heard stories from locals In Western Sydney who cannot afford to turn on the air-conditioning during really hot days. People are forced to spend the day at the 24-hour Kmart to get some reprieve from the heat,” said Ms Nguyen.  

Ms Nguyen adds, “By removing the barrier of the upfront costs of solar installation, our government can transform how communities in Western Sydney respond to extreme heat. After the challenges Western Sydney families have experienced this year, this will be a game-changer.” 

While Ms Nguyen welcomed the news, she also noted, “Western Sydney already faces days that are 10 degrees hotter than the remainder of Sydney, and it is really important for our government to have a holistic package that responds to extreme weather and cost of living pressures in the area. 

“After the devastating bushfires in 2019-20 and the subsequent lockdowns, it is critical that our government prioritises recovery in Western Sydney. We look forward to seeing what Dominic Perrottet and Matt Kean announce in this space in 2022,” concluded Ms Nguyen.