The Andrews Labor Government has helped hundreds of renters and vulnerable households to reduce their energy bills and improve their health and comfort through its innovative Energy Savvy Upgrades (ESU) program, created in collaboration with community groups such as the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners.
Over nearly 4 years, the ESU program has assessed almost 800 Victorian homes, whose residents were having trouble managing energy bills, to assess their home’s energy efficiency and provided subsidised upgrades to improve the home’s efficiency and comfort.
Nineteen different types of upgrades were delivered in the program. The most prevalent were reverse-cycle air conditioners with 306 installations; ceiling insulation with 172 installations; and draught proofing with 134.
Households that received upgrades saved on average $550 per annum on their energy bills and more than 80 per cent of householders experienced improved comfort and resilience to extreme weather, while 62 per cent of householders thought their health had improved due to the upgrades.
On average, there was a 21 per cent reduction in energy consumption and a 16.5 per cent reduction in emissions.
Following an evaluation by an accredited Residential Efficiency Scorecard Assessor using the Scorecard tool, participating households were offered a part-subsidised home energy upgrade package. The recommendations were based on a combination of building shell upgrades, appliance replacement and energy advice.
The upgrade package recommended by the Scorecard Assessor was specific to the house and household’s needs and was based on the Scorecard home assessment and discussions with the residents. Households were supported to install upgrades, with surveys and energy consumption data used to evaluate results.
Discounted Home Energy Rating Assessments are now available to all Victorians through the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program. Accredited Scorecard Assessors learn about the home and the household’s needs and link residents with subsidies and rebates to minimise costs while making homes healthier and more energy efficient.
To book an assessment or find out more visit, energy.vic.gov.au/for-households/victorian-energy-upgrades-for-households/home-energy-rating-assessments
As stated by Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio
“Victorians are feeling the pressure of the cost-of-living and that’s why we’ve ensured vulnerable households are better off this winter through the Energy Savvy Upgrades program.”
“Getting a Home Energy Rating Assessment is a great way to find out your home’s energy efficiency strengths and weaknesses. It could save you thousands – and help you create a much more comfortable and healthy home.”
As stated by Member for Oakleigh Steve Dimopoulous
“Discounted Home Energy Rating Assessments are now available through the Victorian Energy Upgrades program. Victorians should check out our website for information on how to arrange an accredited assessment.”
