Tips on spending the Xmas bonus: save money, the economy and the environment

Clean Energy Council
10 December 2008

A new solar hot water system or better insulation would be ideal ways to spend the federal government's Christmas bonus, helping to stimulate the domestic economy while saving money, energy and the environment at the same time.

The Clean Energy Council believes the government's $10.4 billion stimulus package is a great opportunity for households to have a green Christmas this year while being able to enjoy the bonus, which will continue to keep giving through lower power bills. Investment in smart energy solutions like installing insulation, solar water heaters or solar panels can cut electricity bills by at least 15-20%.

"While Kevin Rudd hasn't told Australians how to spend the bonus, we're sure he would rather they spent it prudently to make their homes more energy efficient rather than just spending it on buying bigger and less energy efficient appliances," said Chief Executive Matthew Warren. "Most insulation and solar hot water systems sold in Australia are also made here meaning that the Christmas bonus will help save Australian jobs."

Mr Warren said new and first home owners could also use some of the extra grants provided by the government to add value to their new homes by making them warmer in winter, cooler in summer and cheaper to run all year round. The first home buyers grant for newly constructed homes will receive an extra $14,000 over the next year, while first home buyers of established dwellings will receive an extra $7,000.

But Mr Warren said all households could celebrate a green Christmas this year and give the gifts that keep on giving; such as a year of green energy, a down payment on some solar panels or even some shares in a clean tech or environmentally friendly company.

"Acting on climate change is within everybody's reach - There are practical things that we can all do to save money while reducing our carbon footprint." "This Christmas we encourage Australians to consider the environment and the future as they launch into their government endorsed spending spree. Clean and efficient energy use make great gifts – that don't stop giving."