Solar heating consent fees waived by Council

In a move to make Taupo District more eco-friendly, Council are waiving the consent fees for properties installing solar heating panels in existing dwellings.

The cost of installation of solar heating panels in existing homes was discussed at the last Council meeting and Councillors all agreed that Council should be supporting owners who were retrofitting their homes by reducing the consent fees.

Mayor Rick Cooper said “I’m committed to moving this Council forward. We need to be more eco-friendly and this is the perfect opportunity to get the ball rolling.” He said people wanting to become more sustainable and energy conscious by installing solar panels in their existing houses should be encouraged to do so and if Council can make it easier by waiving the consent fees then they should do it.

Group Manager, Gareth Green told Councillors that consent fees were $565.00 and in general around 10 applications to retrofit existing homes were received every year. After further discussion Council resolved to waive the fees altogether starting 1 September 2008.

Mayor Cooper also tabled a news article on Government Grants available for the installation of Solar Hot Water Heating Systems. For more information go to the energywise website: http://solar.energywise.govt.nz/consumers/funding-options/homeowners