Solace proffered to Heathcote, Marong Solstice customers

THE City of Greater Bendigo has offered to help Solstice Energy customers in Heathcote and Marong transition from compressed natural gas following the announcement that the energy provider will decommission its network in the towns from August this year.

Households impacted in Heathcote number 100, with 305 in Marong, all of which are required to let Solstice know if they’d like to change their hot water, heating or cooking appliances to electric or bottled LPG by mooted deadlines in March.

They are required to do so by inputting their decisions on the Solstice Energy website.

City healthy communities and environments director Jess Howard said council officers will support local affected customers to arrive at their decisions by holding drop-in sessions in both towns between January and March, where they can ask questions and discuss their options.

“Solstice Energy customers can also book in for an in-home energy snapshot that will discuss potential electrification of appliances, ways to reduce the need for heating and cooling in the home, and to make a plan if needed,” Ms Howard added.

“The City understands that the transition can feel overwhelming, so we want to make it easier for residents.

“Our drop-in sessions and new in-home visits are designed to give impacted residents clear, practical advice so they can make informed choices.

“This is about more than helping people understand appliances, it’s about helping households to lower their bills and improve their comfort.”

Details regarding the sessions happening between January and March can be found on the CoGB website.