New solar trial for social housing

Jacana Energy is partnering with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Community Development (DHLGCD) to launch an innovative trial, Sun Boosters, to share the benefits of renewable energy with social housing customers.

National Renewable Network (NRN) has been selected as the solar photovoltaic (solar PV) delivery partner for the Sun Boosters trial. The trial will see the installation of rooftop solar PV on 30 homes owned by the Northern Territory Government in Darwin, Palmerston and Tennant Creek. The project is funded by the Northern Territory Government.

Jacana Energy CEO, Rod Hayes, said the trial is a great way for more people to access renewable energy.

“The Sun Boosters trial will see customers access renewable energy where it may have previously been out of reach,” said Mr Hayes.

“Ongoing investment in renewable energy infrastructure is vital, and although this trial is at a small scale, there is opportunity for it to be expanded to more homes in the future.”

In exchange for participation in the trial, participants will receive a reduced rate on their electricity charges.

The rooftop solar systems will be owned and maintained by NRN using local solar installation partners. This trial aims to deliver a cost effective and efficient operating model. NRN CEO, Alan Hunter, said this project links directly to the NRN vision.

“Our vision at NRN is to make renewable energy accessible to all,” said Mr Hunter. “It is a great opportunity to deliver this project, knowing the positive impact it will have on those involved.”

Luccio Cercarelli, CEO of the DHLGCD said these kinds of projects deliver great benefits to participants.

“We know low-income households can often struggle with the cost of electricity,” said Mr Cercarelli.

“This trial will offer great benefit to participants, especially at a time when the cost of living is rising, and can be used as a blueprint for future investment in renewable energy for social housing tenants.”

Jacana Energy is working with its partners to finalise the selection of suitable homes for the Sun Boosters trial. Houses are considered for the trial based on specific eligibility criteria, including the age of the property, type of roof, orientation, and suitability for maximum solar generation.