Ku-ring-gai Council – Energy Smart Program

Ku-ring-gai Council has launched a new sustainability initiative to help households and strata communities reduce energy use, cut costs, and transition to cleaner, more efficient technologies. The Energy Smart Program, part of the council’s Electrify Everything campaign, replaces the previous Smart Units Rebate and offers new opportunities for apartments and strata schemes to upgrade their infrastructure.

About the Program

The Energy Smart Program provides up to $3,000 in rebates per household over five years. Funding is available for a wide range of energy efficiency and electrification upgrades, with options tailored for both individual residences and strata communities.

Eligible Upgrades for Strata and Apartments

For apartment owners and owners corporations, the program supports projects that benefit the whole building or shared facilities, including:

• Solar PV systems for common property
• Electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure
• Energy audits for the building
• LED lighting upgrades in shared areas
• Efficient hot water systems, such as heat pumps
• Pool pump upgrades
• Building insulation and window improvements

Individual Household Upgrades

Within strata schemes, individual households can also claim rebates for:

• Induction cooktops and electric ovens
• Heat pump hot water systems
• Solar panels and batteries
• High-efficiency heating and cooling systems
• Energy-efficient pool pumps
• Insulation and draught-proofing upgrades

Why It Matters for Strata Communities

Energy efficiency upgrades in apartment buildings can deliver significant long-term savings, improve comfort, and boost property value. Common property improvements—like solar on the roof or EV charging points—benefit all residents and help strata schemes meet sustainability targets.

Council rebates can significantly offset upfront costs, making it easier for committees and owners to approve projects that might otherwise be delayed.

Application Process

The program runs on a first-come, first-served basis until allocated funds are exhausted. To apply:

• Review eligibility on the Ku-ring-gai Council website.
• Obtain quotes for the proposed upgrade.
• Submit an application with supporting documentation (quotes, photos, and—if applicable—committee approval).
• For strata schemes, committee approval is generally required for any common property works before applying.

Need Help Getting Started?

If your building is within Ku-ring-gai Council and you’re considering upgrades, your Strata Plus Strata Manager can guide your committee through the process—from identifying eligible projects to coordinating quotes and approvals—so you can secure your rebate before funding runs out.