Solar companies feel heat
The solar power industry is predicting a dramatic decline in people installing solar panels, causing millions of dollars in lost business and job losses, after the Federal Government made it harder for households to receive an $8000 rebate. Environment Minister Peter Garrett announced in the budget that only households earning less than $100,000 would qualify for the rebate, effective immediately. It follows a surge in applications - up to seven times more a week, businesses say - since the Howard government doubled the rebate from $4000 to $8000 a year ago.