Energy and Resources Minister Lily D'Ambrosio announced the Victorian Government would be extending support for customers impacted by Solstice Energy ending its gas supply.
A member of the opposition has railed against the Victorian Government’s delivery of support for customers impacted by gas supply cuts.
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Energy and Resources Minister Lily D’Ambrosio last week announced support to customers impacted by Solstice’s decision to cut its gas supply to towns across Victorian, including Nathalia.
As part of its package, the government, through Solar Victoria, has temporarily removed the income eligibility cap for Solstice customers.
Additionally, customers can access up to $4200 in upfront payments in the form of a rebate on rooftop solar and hot water units, alongside an optional $1400 interest-free loan for solar PV.
“We’re making sure all impacted Solstice Energy customers have access to our rebates and discounts, to help them make the switch to cheaper electric appliances that will save them money in the long run,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
“This failed gas supply arrangement was imposed on regional communities by the previous Liberal National government and would have locked them into the most expensive energy source for decades.”
State member for Northern Victoria Region Wendy Lovell hit back, saying the Energy for the Region program, introduced by the former coalition government, failed because Labor’s energy policies had increased the price of gas and the cost of doing business in Victoria.
“The state Labor government is only offering token support to households and businesses in Nathalia, who could face crippling bills in the tens of thousands of dollars to convert to using electrical appliances,” she said.
Wendy Lovell said the government’s support would not help Solstice Energy’s most vulnerable customers.
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Megan Fisher
“Lifting the income eligibility cap may increase the number of people who can apply, but it certainly won’t assist the most vulnerable, who will be hardest hit by the costs of conversion.”
It comes almost three weeks after Solstice Energy announced it will be ceasing its supply of compressed natural gas to 10 Victorian towns.
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