Millions more Victorians will be slashing their power bills with smart energy appliances under important reforms announced by the Allan Government.

The Smart Energy Council welcomes the fact Victorians, including renters, will be weaned off the most costly form of energy and on to cheaper, cleaner alternatives.

“Gas is the most expensive way to heat Victorian homes and businesses, despite there being far more affordable, cleaner alternatives,” Smart Energy Council Chief Executive John Grimes said. 

“Around half of energy costs can be in gas heating, switching to heat pumps and split system air conditioners are an instantaneous way to slash those energy bills.”

“This will make households healthier and cheaper to heat.”

Gas is the bill Australians fear opening, says Mr Grimes, because the costs continue to rise.

“The reality is that the cost of gas is not coming down, it is and will continue to be the most expensive form of energy.”

“The best thing we can do for industry, businesses and households, is wean them off gas.”

Not only is gas unaffordable, says Mr Grimes, it’s an unsustainable gamble.

“Every year warnings of shortages are issued by the gas industry, alongside demands to be allowed to drill for more.”

“The situation is so out of hand that multinational companies are now drilling for gas beside our priceless 12 Apostles, it’s madness.”