Transitioning Domestic Energy from Gas to Electricity: Financial Implications, Advantages, and Incentives
Going All-Electric at Home: A Guide for Victorians
Victorian households are on the lookout for ways to cut down energy costs, and many are considering transitioning from gas appliances like cooktops, heaters, and hot water systems, to electric alternatives. This shift is more than just a financially savvy move, as it aligns with government initiatives like the Victorian Energy Updates program, designed to encourage electric homes. Moreover, laws dictate that new residential dwellings built after 1 January 2024 are prohibited from having gas connections, and new public buildings will also be required to be all-electric.
The Perks of Ditching Gas for Electricity
Why Say Goodbye to Gas?
Victoria leads the nation in gas usage, with nearly 90% of households relying on it. With gas prices on the rise, switching to electricity can spell savings for Victorian households as much as $880 annually on energy bills. Additionally, new regulations state that the government will allocate $10 million to a forthcoming residential electrification grant program for developers and volume builders to provide solar panel, solar hot water, and heat pump rebates to new home buyers.
Is Electricity a Cost-Effective Option?
In recent times, electricity has become the cheaper alternative for powering Victorian homes, as gas prices have spiked while electricity costs have remained steady. Some appliances can consume a substantial amount of energy, heating and cooling systems being the largest energy consumers in an average household. The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water designates reverse-cycle air conditioners as the most energy-efficient heating and cooling options, making them a cost-effective choice. Installing solar panels can further decrease electricity bills, as most energy needs can be met when the sun is shining or stored if you have a solar battery.
Government Support for the Transition
The Victorian Energy Upgrades program and the Solar Homes Program are government initiatives offering rebates for households transitioning from gas to electricity. Rebates are available for items like heating and cooling systems, hot water systems, induction cooktops, clothes dryers, and solar panels.
Electric Alternatives to Gas Appliances
Swapping Gas Heaters for Reverse-Cycle Air Conditioners
Reverse-cycle air conditioners are a great option for both heating and cooling your home. Not only are they cheaper to run, but they are also more energy-efficient. Their popularity increases when combined with solar energy and a solar battery, allowing for significant energy savings.
Making the Switch to Heat-Pump Hot Water Systems
Heat-pump hot water systems can use 80% less electricity than conventional systems and can be powered by your household solar system. As your old gas hot water system reaches the end of its lifespan, consider replacing it with an efficient heat-pump hot water system. The Victorian Energy Upgrades program offers rebates for replacing inefficient hot water systems.
Upgrading to Induction Cooktops
Induction cooktops are more energy-efficient than gas cooktops, providing better heat distribution and temperature accuracy. If replacing a full stove isn't feasible, consider installing an induction burner or an air fryer.
Disconnecting Your Gas Supply
Once you have replaced all of your gas appliances, contact your gas retailer to conduct a final meter reading, close your account, and shut off the gas supply to your meter. A small fee may be charged for this service.
For Renters Considering the Transition
Renters can discuss the switch with their rental providers, suggesting it could increase the property's value and appeal to future tenants. Rental providers cannot refuse reasonable changes, including those made to reduce energy and water bills. Some renters may be eligible for discounts on heating and cooling systems through the Victorian Energy Upgrades program. Additionally, solar rebates can be shared between the owner and renter, making solar panel installation more accessible.
If your rental provider is hesitant, focus on energy efficiency hacks such as draught sealing and insulation to minimise heating and cooling costs.
Here are the two sentences containing the words 'lifestyle' and 'home-and-garden' that follows from the text:
- By transitioning from gas appliances to electric alternatives, Victorians can significantly reduce their energy costs, contributing to a more cost-effective and sustainable home-and-garden lifestyle.
- Renters who are environmentally conscious and aim for a greener home-and-garden lifestyle may discuss the switch to all-electric appliances with their rental providers, suggesting it could increase the property's value and appeal to future tenants.
