A change in government often hails the start of a new era – and the arrival of a new premier in Queensland has done just that.
Campbell Newman has announced that the state's ClimateSmart Home Service will no longer be taking bookings, leaving locals looking for other means of boosting their energy efficiency.
We might be a little bit biased, but solar panels are a great way of improving your eco credentials – not only can they help guard you against electricity price rises but they may also be more affordable than you think.
Queensland's ClimateSmart Home Service involved a licensed electrician visiting the homes of those who registered with the scheme, where they would install a wireless power monitor for consumers to keep an eye on usage.
In some cases, residents would also receive a free energy efficient shower head and up to 15 power-saving light globes, all in an effort to help Queenslanders cut their emissions.
However, in a bid to save money for the state, Campbell Newman has given the initiative the chop, saying it costs taxpayers $5 million a year to maintain.
Apparently demand for the scheme had dwindled over recent months – let's hope this isn't the first of many renewable energy casualties.
Posted by Bob Dawson