In response to the announcement that Solstice Energy will be shutting off the gas network to 10 Victorian towns at the end of 2026 because it is too expensive to run, Dr Kat Lucas-Healey, Senior Climate and Energy Advisor at Environment Victoria said:
“Victorians gas prices have tripled in the last decade, as local Bass Strait supplies have dwindled and gas companies have taken advantage of the 2010 decision to allow large-scale exports of Australian gas overseas.
“With ever-increasing gas bills and the popularity of efficient electric technologies like heat pumps, it’s not a surprise that companies are walking away from areas of the gas network. More and more Victorians are making the switch to electric appliances to save on energy bills and gas consumption is plummeting.
“As gas becomes untenable it’s essential communities are in a good position to make the switch and without leaving people behind. We call on the Victorian government to prioritise the roll out of the SEC’s one stop shop services to these 10 towns affected by Solstice Energy’s decision. Installers need to offer competitive quotes and help people access the generous Victorian Energy Upgrades incentives that are available.
“In our report last year, we found that switching to efficient electric heating pays for itself while improving year-round comfort. Almost half of Victorian homes (44%) use gas ducted heating but have no cooling. By switching to efficient reverse-cycle systems that both heat and cool, these households can improve their comfort all year round and cut their annual energy bills by two thirds.
“The government’s recent decisions to improve minimum rental standards and begin the systematic introduction of heat pump water heaters will make sure that households aren’t stuck paying exorbitant gas bills, or going cold to avoid them.
“It is far better to switch to efficient appliances now than waiting and watching the gas bills keep going up – and the gas companies will do their best to make sure they keep going up. Victorian homeowners who haven’t yet thought about how they want to go electric should look into the savings they’re missing out on and start making a plan.
“Gas pollutes our climate and our homes, costs too much, and belongs in the past.”
“This is further evidence that the transition must be lead by governments with the interests of the community at the forefront, not left to the market-driven decisions of gas companies.”