THE Queensland government is looking for an energy partner to deliver solar energy directly into the homes of low income Logan families living in public housing.
Acting housing and public works minister Craig Crawford has invited expressions of interest in the project.
“We want local Queensland businesses to participate in this competitive market process,” Mr Crawford said.
“We are looking for a high-quality business which has solar products, installer accreditation and all the necessary insurance, registration and applicable energy licenses in place.”
Woodridge MP Cameron Dick said residents living in public housing in his area would benefit from the initiative.
“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to helping Queenslanders with their cost of living pressures and this will help some of our most vulnerable people,” Mr Dick said.
“The tenants participating in the Logan trial will buy the solar power they use for a discounted per kilowatt hour rate.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of an innovative trial which will create jobs, deliver clean energy and lower the power bills of Queenslanders on low incomes.”
Mr Dick said the government was committed to supporting local businesses wherever possible.
“So one aspect we will look at is whether the successful tenderer will employ local tradies, including electricians and suppliers,” he said.
“Following the appointment of a preferred provider, Logan households will then be invited to participate in the program.”
Energy minister Dr Anthony Lynham said the solar trial had already proved an outstanding success in Cairns and Rockhampton, with more than 800 solar panel systems installed.
“The Queensland government is committed to increasing the uptake of renewable energy to drive jobs and investment and reduce emissions.
“In Cairns and Rockhampton we are expecting to see savings of up to $250 per year on electricity bills and we want to bring savings to tenants in Logan as well,” Dr Lynham said.
Solar panels will be installed on selected public housing roofs in the electorates of Waterford, Coomera, Woodridge, Logan, Algester and Springwood.
Expressions of interest opened on the QTenders website today.
Candidates will be shortlisted by September 4 to proceed to the next phase of the procurement process.
