As part of the Australian Government’s $75 million Solar Cities initiative, the Blacktown Solar City consortium is set to receive $15 million and expects to leverage a further $22 million to install more than 860 photovoltaic systems of different sizes and 2100 solar water heaters.

Howard said households would be offered a simpler kit which combined two sets of solar panels – one set to heat water and the other to create electricity.

“This new combined installation takes up less roof space and is cheaper to install than conventional individual systems. Finance packages will be available to assist residents with the upfront costs of solar technologies,” he said.

About 4000 smart meters will be provided to residents and businesses, energy consultations will be offered to more than 3500 households and businesses, and 30,000 energy efficiency packs will be sent out to Blacktown City residents.

Howard said more than 200 households would be able to take up discounted ceiling insulation packages as part of a trial to measure energy savings from properly installed insulation.

“This comprehensive project will increase the current capacity of solar photovoltaic panels in NSW and Australia by more than one megawatt, which can generate enough electricity to meet the needs of around 200 average homes for a year,” he said.

The Australian Government expects the Blacktown Solar City trial to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 25,000 tonnes and save the community $3 million in energy costs each year.

The Government previously announced the Adelaide and Townsville Solar City trials which, combined with Blacktown, are expected to bring installed solar power to 3000 solar photovoltaic panels, conduct 6000 energy efficiency consultations, and help more than 230,000 residents and businesses reduce energy use and save money.

Howard said the Solar Cities would also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 64,000 tonnes each year and save these communities $9 million per year in electricity bills.

The Blacktown Solar City consortium comprises BP Solar, Integral Energy, Blacktown City Council, Landcom, the ANZ and Big Switch Projects.