The Electrical Trades Union has praised the Andrews Labor Government’s Solar Homes program announced over the weekend.

The commitment that a reelected Andrews Labor Government will deliver the $1.24 billion program to put solar panels on the roofs of 650,000 homes is good for consumers and Victorian sparkies.

ETU Victorian Secretary Troy Gray said the plan would create hundreds of jobs, including many for electrical workers and apprentices. “Jeff Kennett’s privatisation of Victorian power generation hasn’t worked. We were promised cheaper power, and all we have seen is power prices increasing and corporations making massive profits at the expense of Victorians.”

“That’s why the Andrews government’s move to put solar on the roofs of more Victorian homes shows real leadership, in direct contrast to the squabbling and backroom fighting from the Liberals in Canberra.”

A key part of the signature policy is the $9 Million that will be invested to make sure that only approved and licensed installers have access to the program. Approved installers will be required to hold an unrestricted Class A Electrical License; they must have accreditation with the Clean Energy Council (CEC) Solar Accreditation Scheme and have not received any WorkSafe Infringements in the past three years.

“Electrical work is dangerous work; we don’t want fly-by-night operators getting on people’s roofs and risking lives. It’s fantastic that the Andrews government has realised that this program must have safety at its core and that the industry needs time to train new apprentices here in Victoria properly. We look forward to working with the Andrews government to achieve this critical program, safely and effectively for all Victorians.”

Media Contact:
Jason Gibson | 0433 544 277 | jason.gibson@etuvic.com.au