Despite decades of marketing gas as a clean, cost-effective power source for our homes, the reality is that gas is a polluting fossil fuel and one of the leading causes of the climate crisis.
Around Australia, over five million homes are currently connected to a gas network. Which accounts for a whopping 17% of total gas consumption and 2% of our country’s carbon emissions.
But the cost isn’t just environmental.
Contrary to popular belief, gas appliances are less efficient and more expensive to run than their modern electric counterparts. So if doing it for the planet isn’t what sways you, maybe the savings will.
Image via Erik Mclean on Unsplash
The Cost of Gas
A recent study by the Climate Council shared that Australian households could make an average savings of over $1,000 a year when they switch from gas appliances to one of the more efficient electric alternatives. And with gas prices spiking in 2023 and higher costs predicted in the coming years, there’s no better time than now to make the switch to electricity.
Renew recently released a report on the rising prices of home energy across Australia between 2022 – 2024, showing that homes connected to gas will be hit the hardest.
Homes that rely on gas are set to bear the brunt of these price hikes, with some expected to face bill increases of up to $1900 in the next two years.
Notably, the report indicates that all-electric homes are far more resilient to these changes. The average household in Melbourne could save over $2700 a year by making the switch from gas to an all-electric setup by 2024.
Where to start?
If you are ready to get off gas but don’t know where to start. Renew has launched its “Getting Off Gas” toolkit, a free online resource available from next Friday and over the coming month, will be accompanied by a series of webinars to help you make the transition from gas to electric.
Experts will walk you through the selection process for all-electric appliances, giving you the knowledge and confidence to make the switch.
The webinars will help you find reliable and experienced tradespeople to ensure your transition is as smooth as possible. Plus, how an all-electric home can work with your existing renewables and batteries. You’ll also have the opportunity to speak with industry experts and homeowners who’ve already taken the plunge and gone gas-free.
Register here for your free pass that will give you access to all four of the “Getting Off Gas” series
