Who it's for

  • Social and community housing providers.

Overview

The Social Housing Energy Performance Initiative (SHEPI) is helping thousands of social housing tenants to save money on their energy bills, stay more comfortable in their homes throughout the year and improve their health and quality of life.

The Australian and NSW governments are working with the social housing sector to deliver the $175 million initiative to upgrade approximately 24,000 social housing homes by June 2027.

The Australian Government is providing a further $145.3 million for the SHEPI Expansion to upgrade an additional 13,500 social housing homes from January 2027.

Program objectives

This program aims to:

  • reduce energy bills and lower emissions
  • keep social housing homes more liveable year-round. 

Who can apply

Housing providers are responsible for choosing which properties are upgraded and in which way. Social housing residents cannot apply for this program. 

What will be upgraded

The initiative supports a range of energy performance upgrades in homes to help social housing tenants reduce their energy bills, and keep their homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter. These energy efficiency upgrades can include, but not limited to:

  • solar panels and batteries
  • reverse-cycle air conditioners
  • heat pump water heaters
  • ceiling insulation
  • draught proofing.

Which homes will be upgraded

Housing providers including Homes NSW, Aboriginal Housing Office and community housing providers will choose the properties and type of upgrade. They will give priority to older, inefficient homes, and those in extremely hot or cold locations but ultimately it is their choice to select the best fit from their portfolio.

How upgrades are helping tenants

Andy received an energy efficient heat pump water heater through the initiative to help him save money on his energy bills. 

Contact and support

For help with eligibility or any further questions, contact the Social Housing Energy Performance Initiative team at [email protected].  

Read our frequently asked questions for more information.