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NSW government partners with Brighte to offer zero-interest loans for home energy upgrades
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NSW government partners with Brighte to offer zero-interest loans for home energy upgrades
In a significant move to boost energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprints across New South Wales, the state government has partnered with Brighte to roll out an ambitious Home Energy Saver loan program. This initiative will provide eligible households with the opportunity to access loans of up to $15,000 at 0% interest, specifically aimed at facilitating upgrades to solar power systems, batteries, heat pumps, and other energy-efficient home improvements.
NSW government partners with Brighte to offer zero-interest loans for home energy upgrades
In a significant move to boost energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprints across New South Wales, the state government has partnered with Brighte to roll out an ambitious Home Energy Saver loan program. This initiative will provide eligible households with the opportunity to access loans of up to $15,000 at 0% interest, specifically aimed at facilitating upgrades to solar power systems, batteries, heat pumps, and other energy-efficient home improvements.
Starting today, homeowners across NSW can apply for these loans by visiting Brighte's website, where they can confirm their eligibility and request quotes from accredited installers. Brighte's network of installers, all accredited under the New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC), will be responsible for executing these upgrades. The loans, which come with no establishment or account-keeping fees, are repayable over a period of up to 10 years, providing a financially accessible pathway for households to enhance their energy efficiency.
Katherine McConnell, CEO of Brighte, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the financial relief it offers to families. "Upfront cost is the biggest reason NSW households don't upgrade their homes. This program removes that barrier — eligible households can borrow up to $15,000 with zero interest and zero fees. That's a genuine difference for families who've been putting this off," McConnell stated.
The initiative is designed to address the financial hurdles that many families face when considering energy-efficient upgrades. "Brighte is purpose-built for exactly this," McConnell added. "We have the largest accredited installer network in NSW, and we've spent a decade making the process of finding an installer, applying for finance and getting the job done as simple and fast as possible.”
Brighte's role in this program is multifaceted. The company will not only assess and approve the loans but also manage them throughout their duration. Furthermore, Brighte will ensure that all installers are properly accredited and onboarded to deliver the best possible service. This approach builds on Brighte's longstanding experience in the sector, having issued more than $2.5 billion in home energy loans over the past decade through a network of over 2,600 accredited vendors nationwide.

This new program in NSW is not Brighte's first venture into government-backed energy finance. The company has previously delivered similar initiatives, including the ACT Sustainable Household Scheme and the Tasmanian Energy Saver Loan Scheme. Additionally, Brighte collaborates with the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and the Australian Renewable Energy Agency, and it connects Commonwealth Bank customers to its installer network through CBA's Home Energy Upgrades program.
The NSW Home Energy Saver loan is available to households with a total annual taxable income of up to $210,000, which includes both homeowners and landlords. However, all loans are subject to Brighte's credit assessment, and specific eligibility criteria and approved upgrade requirements must be met. Installers participating in the program are required to hold current NETCC accreditation, ensuring that all work is completed to the highest standards.
For more information, households interested in the program can visit Brighte's dedicated webpage for homeowners, while vendors and installers can find relevant details on Brighte's partner page. This initiative represents a significant step forward in promoting sustainable energy practices across New South Wales, aligning with broader national and global efforts to combat climate change and promote energy efficiency.
By making these energy upgrades more accessible, the NSW government and Brighte are paving the way for a more sustainable future, encouraging households to take proactive steps in reducing their environmental impact while also benefiting from reduced energy costs over time.
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