Hunter households have until June 30 to claim the $8000 solar rebate but after this date, the Federal Government will abolish the rebate and replace it with its solar credits scheme.

The new scheme is good news for household incomes more than $100,000, but for those hous-eholds, who earn less than $100,000, they would be $4000 worse off.

So that is why Climate Action Newcastle’s Ian Wilcox and Duncan Jinks are urging residents to take advantage of the rebate now.

Households, who earn less than $100,000 could apply for the solar panel rebate.

“People should get the solar panels installed now. It’s probably the cheapest solar they’ll ever get.

“They could save more than $200 a year on elec-tricity, “ Mr Wilcox said.

But Mr Jinks said saving money wasn’t the only benefit of installing the solar panels.

When installed, the systems will produce clean electricity and it would also reduce our reliance on the burning of coal.

“By joining up to this, people will be part of a community project.”

In fact, the Hunter community has the largest nu-mber of applications in Australia in the bulk solar panel project.

To find out more information about the solar panel project, visit www.climateaction.org.au/campaign s/newcastles-going-solar or phone 1300 794 110.

Lake residents get bonus scheme

Ecosmart has paired up with Lake Macquarie Council to give 150 residents bonus discounts on top of exist-ing government rebates.

A Dux 415L split solar hot water system can be installed for $800 or an Airoheat 250L Heat pump can be installed for $600.

To register your household go to www.lakemac.com.au