The ACT Government is building more housing for those in need with another 17 new, solar-powered homes added to the ACT’s public housing portfolio.
Minister for Housing and Suburban Development Yvette Berry said public housing numbers are continuing to grow under the government’s Growing and Renewing Program
Minister Berry said the Government has been adapting designs for public housing stock to ensure new homes meet the needs of tenants and help tackle the rise in the cost-of-living through improved energy efficiency.
“These properties, all have a minimum 7.5-star energy rating and a Class-C adaptable rating,” said Minister Berry.
A Class-C rating is an Australian standard requiring wider doors and corridors, to ensure people with a disability who use a wheelchair can easily navigate the homes.
A Class C adaptable home can be easily changed to accommodate people with a disability or older people by installing grab rails, kitchen and bathroom modifications and have no stairs either inside or outside.
The Belconnen complex is the latest added to the territory’s public housing portfolio consists of twelve 2-bedroom apartments, four 3-bedroom and one 2-bedroom townhouses, all of which can access a 38 KW/30 KVA solar system installed on the roof of western end of the apartment building.
The solar panel system is anticipated to offset the complex’s Annual Carbon Dioxide Emission by 46 tons.
“I’m happy that public housing tenants will have access to a 38-Kilowatt solar system installed on the apartment building roof to help them with the cost of heating and cooling, and their energy bills overall, as well as contributing to the ACT Government’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions,” said Minister Berry.
The 17 dwellings each have a designated car space, are close to public transport, shops and parks.
