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Energy Savings: Practical Tips for Reducing Costs While Promoting Sustainability By Bashir Fayaq

Energy Savings: Practical Tips for Reducing Costs While Promoting Sustainability By Bashir Fayaq

With rising energy costs affecting many households across Australia predominantly across Victoria, it’s essential to provide practical solutions to help manage energy consumption and promote sustainability. In line with my commitment to improving wellbeing for all Victorians, here are five key strategies to reduce energy bills while fostering a more sustainable future:

1. Shop for Affordable Energy Providers

The Victorian energy market offers a range of providers. By using the government’s Energy Made Easy tool, you can compare and select the most affordable electricity and gas providers. Additionally, providers such as Amber Electric offer wholesale pricing options that could help you save if you’re able to adjust usage to off-peak periods.

2. Take Advantage of Government Energy Relief and Concessions

The Australian Government’s expanded Energy Bill Relief Fund for 2024-25 will provide rebates to all households and eligible small businesses to help ease the cost of living. These rebates will be automatically applied to your electricity account. Make sure to also explore other available energy benefits through state-based energy concessions.

3. Make Simple Adjustments to Your Daily Habits

Conserving energy through small changes can make a big difference:

  • Bathroom: Keep showers short, as water heating accounts for around 20% of energy use.
  • Kitchen: Optimise fridge and freezer temperatures and use lids on pots to reduce cooking time.
  • Laundry: Wash clothes in cold water and hang them to dry rather than using a dryer to save significantly on energy.
  • Living Spaces: Seal doors and windows to prevent heat loss, and switch off appliances at the wall to reduce energy consumption by up to 5%.

    • 4. Upgrade to Electric and Energy-Efficient Appliances

    Investing in energy-efficient appliances can lead to significant savings:

  • Electric heat pump systems are currently the most efficient hot water solution available.
  • Induction cooktops are more energy-efficient than gas or ceramic hotplates.
  • Energy-efficient lighting: Switching to LED lights can cut power usage by up to 85%.

    • 5. Consider Long-Term Energy Solutions for Your Home

    To further reduce energy costs and build a sustainable future, consider investing in more substantial home energy upgrades:

  • Solar panels allow you to generate renewable energy and potentially lower electricity bills by using the power you produce.
  • Home battery systems
    store solar energy for later use, allowing you to avoid importing power during peak periods.

    • By implementing these strategies, we can not only reduce household energy costs but also contribute to a greener, more sustainable Australia.