Going solar can save money, add value to a home or business and help save the planet. But finding the right solar set up, at the best price, from a dependable installer can be tough. That is where community solar program Energise Gippsland can help.

The Energise Gippsland Solar Program – formerly known as Gippy Bulk Buy – is working to transition our region to 100 per cent renewable energy by tapping the power of the sun. It offers impartial guidance and support to anyone looking to switch to solar, including how to save money, apply for government rebates and select the right system, whether it is high-quality roof-top solar panels, storage batteries, smart inverters or solar hot water systems, all at bulk-buy prices and with an option to buy Australian-made.

A webinar for newcomers will be held on Wednesday 14 April from 6.30pm, which will introduce the program and provide support to anyone looking to make the switch.  

Energise Gippsland, which operates as a service platform for the Gippsland Climate Change Network, also offers a community solar donation. For every 50kW installed through the program, 0.5kW of solar will be donated to a Gippsland regional building chosen by the community. More solar take up equals more solar donated to a good local cause. In Stage 1 of the program, locals voted to give a solar donation to Loch Sport Community Hall.  

This program is a partnership between Wellington Shire Council, Latrobe City Council, Gippsland Climate Change Network, Energise Gippsland and not-for-profit body Yarra Energy Foundation, all coming together to make it easy and affordable for Gippsland households to install solar power.

Sign up for the Energise Gippsland webinar at bit.ly/energisegippsland

For more information, call the Yarra Energy Foundation on 1300 866 634.