Councils launch innovative solar and battery program for local residents
- intouch Magazine
- Sep 8
- 2 min read
Making the switch to renewable energy at home will become easier and more affordable for Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Maitland residents following the launch of a new council-led program this month.
The Solar Neighbourhoods initiative is designed to remove barriers that have held back solar and home battery uptake in the region.
Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull said the councils were leading the way on sustainability with the introduction of this collaborative program, which is the first of its kind in the region and responds to community feedback.
“We’ve heard from residents across the three council areas that they want solar and batteries for their homes, but are overwhelmed by the choice, upfront cost and complexity of buying solar systems,” Cr Pull said.
“Through an extensive tender and due diligence process we’ve identified a range of high-quality systems, delivered by our program partner and local installers.
“Households installing a new solar and battery system could save up to 90 per cent of a typical family electricity bill, which is why we’re committed to providing an easy, accessible pathway to solar and home batteries for our community.
“This program also aligns with a key priority in our Newcastle Environment Strategy, which is to support the transition of the Newcastle LGA to net zero emissions through an accelerated uptake of onsite solar and batteries.”
Residents across the three council areas will be able to access quality solar, batteries and electric vehicle chargers from program partner 1KOMMA5 Australia and their network of local installers.
Upfront payments or affordable options to pay the system off over time will be available, as well as an exclusive program discount and government rebates.
Lake Macquarie Deputy Mayor Jack Antcliff said the initiative will enable residents to take meaningful climate action through practical, community-led solutions.
“We’re proud to support programs that help households lower their electricity bills and contribute to a more sustainable future,” Cr Antcliff said.
“This partnership reflects a united regional approach to reducing emissions and accelerating the transition to renewable energy, an outcome that benefits individuals, their neighbourhoods and the Hunter as a whole.”
Maitland Councillor Warrick Penfold said more than one third of homes across the Maitland LGA currently have solar installed.
“We hope that this program opens up accessible and affordable options for even more Maitland residents that are looking to make the switch,” Cr Penfold said.
"Forging strong partnerships with neighbouring councils and other agencies to drive solar uptake across Maitland, and in turn underlining the environmental, economic and social benefits for our residents, is just one of the ways that Maitland City Council is showing leadership and working to shape a more sustainable Maitland."
Join the waitlist to be the first to know when the program launches later this month at: https://solarneighbourhoods.com.au/
