Energy experts welcome new Victorian Energy Efficiency Strategy 20 November 2017
The Energy Efficiency Council has welcomed the Victorian Government’s Energy Efficiency and Productivity Strategy, announced by the Hon Lily D’Ambrosio at the National Energy Efficiency Conference 2017 in Melbourne.
"Smart energy use is the quickest way to bring down energy costs. This strategy will cut energy bills for Victorian homes and businesses straight away, and kick off the research we need to deliver even bigger savings in the future," said Luke Menzel, CEO of the Energy Efficiency Council.
“We’re encouraging all governments to engage in good faith on the proposed National Energy Guarantee (NEG). However if we don’t complement the NEG with action on energy efficiency, as the Victorian Government is doing, the NEG will be prohibitively expensive,” said Luke Menzel.
“Energy efficiency might not seem as sexy as solar panels or a big new generator, but it’s the cheapest and quickest way of slashing energy costs," said Luke Menzel.
The Victorian Energy Efficiency and Productivity Strategy includes the following actions:
- $17 million to upgrade the homes of vulnerable households, helping people with chronic health conditions and low incomes.
- Grants of up to $50,000 to help manufacturers and other businesses get expert advice and improve their energy efficiency.
- A voluntary rating system for homes, so that prospective buyers can find out how comfortable and affordable a home is to run.
"Victoria's manufacturing sector has been hit hard by rising gas costs. While the state government doesn’t have any options to bring down the cost of gas, they’ve taken the smart step to help cut manufacturers’ energy bills by improving their efficiency,” said Luke Menzel.
“There are also good policies in here to help vulnerable households and commercial building owners. Upgrading buildings won’t just cut energy bills – it will also make occupants healthier and more comfortable,” said Luke Menzel.
“We look forward to working with Minister D’Ambrosio to implement the ideas in this strategy and scale them up,” said Luke Menzel.
Media contact
Rob Murray-Leach
M: 0414 065 556
E: rob.murray-leach@eec.org.au
