Thursday, 3 August 2023

Energy policy

Lee TARLAMIS (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (10:01): The Andrews Labor government is helping Victorians get the best home energy deals. From 1 July 2024 planning permits for new homes in residential subdivisions will only be for those connected to the all-electric networks, with houses taking advantage of the more efficient, cheaper and cleaner electric appliances. Going all electric can be delivered at no extra cost to the buyer and will slash around $1000 per year off household energy bills or up to $2200 for households that also have solar installed. This will also help reduce Victoria’s carbon emissions, with a move to electric systems a key step in meeting Victoria’s nation-leading emissions reduction targets of 75 to 80 per cent by 2035 and net zero by 2045.

To ensure home owners can maximise the benefits of household renewable energy, the government is investing $10 million in a new residential electrification grants program. Grants will be available to volume home builders, developers and others to provide bulk rebates for solar panels, solar hot water and heat pumps to new homebuyers up-front. Many new homebuyers will save up to $4600 before they even move in, removing double handling of installations while saving buyers money and hassle. To help prepare for the transition, the government is also investing in training and development to ensure that the construction industry is supported in the transition to all-electric and 7-star homes. This investment will also help to upskill plumbers and electricians to take advantage of the renewable energy revolution. The Andrews Labor government is doing what matters to ensure Victorians get the best value for money on their energy through this and other initiatives while ensuring Victoria is net zero by 2045.