Solar power grants for homes and businesses

Gladstone householders can go online to apply for interest-free loans and grants

RENEWABLE ENERGY: Gladstone residents and businesses can apply for grants to install batteries for solar power. Picture: iStock

GLADSTONE residents and businesses can help Queensland's renewable energy revolution by using grants for households and small businesses to install batteries to store solar power.

Energy Minister Anthony Lynham announced the grants and loan scheme would help up to 1500 Queensland households and small businesses cut their power bills.

"Almost half a million households in Queensland already are generating power from rooftop solar, energy" Dr Lynham said.

"Queensland householders can jump online and apply for interest-free loans of up to $10,000 and grants of $3000 to purchase batteries or combined solar-battery systems."

A high-energy-using household that contributes $2000 to $3000 to the upfront cost of its solar and battery system may save up to $400 a year.

Gladstone small businesses can also apply for a grant of up to $3000.

This scheme is on top of one that started in June offering interest-free loans of up to $4500 for solar systems.

Dr Lynham said the roll-out of the solar and battery packages was backed with a strong safety focus.

Applicants for loans and grants select from a panel of approved suppliers who meet strict safety standards.

For more information go to www.qld.gov.au/batteryloans and applications can be lodged from November 19.