Perhaps the Federal Government flew into my eco “jet wash” and is in a flat spin heading out to sea.

Let’s hope we don’t lose our “Goose”, Peter Garrett.

Just as well we have Sustain the Bool to keep you up to speed on all of the changes happening.

So what rebates can you now claim?

The insulation program has been halted until June 1 and will be pulled in together with the solar hot water for a new program called the Renewable and Energy Bonus Scheme.

This will now mean households may be eligible to get either a $1000 rebate for insulation or a $1000 rebate for solar hot water or a $600 rebate for heat pump systems.

The solar hot water and heat pump systems rebates are available now, whereas the insulation rebates will be available after June 1.

Householders will now claim rebates through Medicare.

The Green Loans has stopped. But the free household assessments will continue to allow householders to reduce energy, water use and tackle climate change. So

book a free assessment today by calling 1800 895 076 Monday to Friday 9am-5pm.

Don’t be put off by the changing rebates. Some things will remain the same, politics will be political and I will always wear my underpants on the outside.

The Solar Credits Program still remains, which means you can still get involved in the bulk buy of solar panels to produce your own electricity and sell back to the grid. Contact the Warrnambool City Council on 5559 4800 and leave your details to be included in the Sustain the Bool

updates and to find out more about up-and-coming solar workshops in March.

In a coup for the south-west of Victoria, the Energy and Water Task Force has been setup. Sounds a bit like a reality TV show but it is a team of caped crusaders installing free energy and water saving products to low-income households (though they may not always wear capes).

So if you have a current Centrelink Health Care Card or a Pensioner Concession Card you can have the task force come to your home to help you save money by reducing your energy and water bills. Did I mention this is

free? That’s right, free.

Time is limited, with approximately 600 householders with concession cards able to take part across the region. This includes areas from Terang, Penshurst, Dunkeld, Portland and Warrnambool, with many other towns in between.

Renters and owner-occupiers can take part, as long as you have one of the eligible cards. To book a free assessment, contact Western District Employment Access .

And remember, make your day a Sustain the Bool day.