It's Time to Tap into Solar Hot Water say Greens

Media Release, 16 March 2007

A big switch to household solar hot water systems should be part of the State Government's Climate Change Action Plan says Greens MLC Giz Watson.

"In W.A. less than a quarter of household hot water systems are solar, elsewhere in the world some countries have more than 80% simply because they've legislated for it," Ms Watson said.

"We're calling on the government to mandate the use of solar hot water systems. They should be mandated where practical for all new homes and for the replacement of all old systems.

"Low-interest loans will be offered to cover the difference in capital costs between solar systems and other choices. These loans shouldn't result in extra out of pocket expenses for the consumer, but, in fact, should be covered by the savings made on their electricity bills.

"Once the low-interest loan has been paid off, it's a financial win for the public because their hot water will then be free. It's also a win for the planet with reduced CO2 emissions.