COVID-19 has left the world grappling for stability, and while no businesses have been exempted, small businesses have borne the brunt of it. But the Victorian government is offering some respite in the form of rebates.
As far as solar energy is concerned, Victoria has been one of the leading consumers of solar energy in Australia. Hence, in order to support small businesses recover from the effects of COVID-19, the Andrews Labor Government has introduced two new programs - the Solar for Business Program and the Small Business Energy Saver Program - to maximise energy efficiency while bringing down costs.
The Solar for business Program covers up to 50% of the cost of a rooftop solar system with small businesses eligible for a rebate of up to $3,500. An unprecedented number of solar rebates (15,000) will be issued to small businesses in Victoria, in addition to over half a million households making the most of solar energy, enjoying reduced energy bills.
Starting May, small businesses operating from non-residential premises, with 20 or less employees and a capacity of up to 30kW shall be eligible for rebates, provided the retailers and installers of said solar PV system are registered with the Solar homes Program.
The program is initially said to be open to businesses with owned premises, and will later be extended to businesses operating from rented premises.
Moreover, the Small Business Energy Saver Program enables small businesses to claim $5 million to facilitate installation of energy-efficient equipment in the office premises.
In addition to that, small businesses can claim up to $2,000 to upgrade their equipment to those more energy-efficient — air-conditioners, refrigerators, heating systems and the like.
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