Pushy energy upgrade peddlers given the boot

THE Victorian government’s ban on door-knocking under the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, aimed at protecting consumers from harmful and intrusive sales tactics, is now in effect.

The ban, which came into force on Wednesday last week, follows several complaints from local residents about aggressive door-to-door salespeople and telemarketers offering free, and often unwanted and unnecessary, energy efficient showerhead replacements.

In some instances, these replacements were reported to break, leak or cause pressure issues shortly after installation.

A ban on “cold-call” telemarketing under the scheme came into effect on May 1.

The VEU program strives to help Victorians reduce their energy bills and greenhouse emissions by providing access to discounted energy efficient heating, cooling and hot water products.

Under the program, Victorians households are eligible for up to two water-saving showerheads if their existing showerheads have a high flow rate or low star rating, with the private businesses who distribute them receiving incentives in the form of Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs), currently valued at just under $110 each, for every tonne of greenhouse gas saved as a result of the upgrades.

Following the door-knocking ban, VEU accredited providers are still able to use digital and traditional media to advertise the program, along with direct marketing tools such as social media and email, but consent from consumers must be obtained before telephoning or visiting them.

Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio said all-electric homes are healthier, cleaner and cheaper to run, but Victorians need information they can trust to help them get there.

“We’re making sure they get that appropriately and effectively.

“These bans strike the right balance between ensuring the program is accessible to all Victorians but protects them from unwanted contact or high-pressure environments.”

A review of the VEU program, to ensure it continues to be a key driver in helping more Victorians electrify their homes and businesses, has also been announced by the state government.

The Essential Services Commission (ESC), which regulates the program, will monitor industry compliance of the ban through a range of expanded powers and has the ability to bring civil or criminal proceedings against businesses that do not comply with the ban.

ESC acting chair and commissioner Sitesh Bhojani said the commission takes breaches of the bans seriously.

“Accredited persons and scheme partners must comply with the bans and put consumer rights and choice at the centre of their practice.

“We encourage consumers and industry to report breaches of bans directly to us so we can investigate and act.”

Breaches of the VEU door knocking and telemarketing bans can be reported to the ESC by phoning (03) 9032 1310 or emailing [email protected].