Australia’s $800M Social Housing Energy Upgrade to Benefit 100,000+ Households with $1,800 Annual Savings

More than 100,000 social housing properties across Australia will benefit from a major expansion of the Social Housing Energy Performance Initiative (SHEPI), providing an average annual energy bill saving of $1,800 per household.

The initiative, jointly funded by state and Commonwealth governments, has received an additional $500 million, bringing total funding to $800 million. The expansion aims to reach nearly 25% of the nation’s social housing stock, delivering critical cost-of-living relief to some of Australia’s most vulnerable residents.

Program Benefits

SHEPI upgrades include improved insulation, electrification, and solar panel installations designed to reduce energy consumption while ensuring homes remain cool in summer and warm in winter.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, said the program addresses energy hardship while also reducing emissions.
“Upgrading solar and energy efficiency in social housing makes homes cheaper to run, more comfortable to live in, and helps cut emissions,” Bowen stated.

Assistant Minister Josh Wilson highlighted the importance of supporting tenants who are least able to afford energy efficiency improvements.
“This initiative delivers immediate relief while ensuring homes are more liveable year-round and less impacted by energy costs,” Wilson said.

Key Features of the Expansion

• Increased Coverage: Over 100,000 social homes to benefit from energy upgrades.
• Cost Savings: An estimated $1,800 annual reduction in energy bills per household.
• Climate Benefits: Reduced carbon emissions through enhanced energy efficiency.

The Albanese Government says the SHEPI program underscores its commitment to supporting vulnerable communities while building a more sustainable and affordable energy future.