Free solar panels for community housing tenants

Tenants in Adelaide’s north are enjoying reduced cost of living following the installation of solar panels on 13 community housing properties this month.

Thanks to a $100,000 interest-free loan from climate action charity CORENA, households in Pennington, Mansfield Park and Ingle Farm have had 369 Labs smart solar systems and panels installed, which will see their annual electricity costs cut by around 30%.

Believe Housing Australia’s Executive General Manager, Stacey Northover, said the solar systems are fully paid for, maintained and owned by AnglicareSA and Believe Housing Australia leaving tenants with no installation expenses.

“The partnership with CORENA, AnglicareSA, 369 Labs and Beat Energy means our tenants can reduce their cost of living and their carbon footprint,” she said.

“With no out-of-pocket expenses for tenants, this solar initiative helps to reduce bills, contribute positively to the environment, and educate our tenants to better understand and control how and when to use energy throughout the day. As we work towards our goal of increasing the supply of social and affordable housing in South Australia, we’re committed to ensuring that we’re developing sustainable homes suitable for the long-term.”

Community housing tenant Wendy had her solar panels installed in March and said she is already reaping the benefits.

“My first electricity bill since installation showed I was in credit, I didn’t have to pay anything,” Wendy said. “I’m so thrilled with how the system is working. I’m very grateful, it’s just wonderful.”

This latest installation project brings the total number of community housing properties powered by solar across the Believe Housing Australia portfolio to more than 70 homes.