Gas connections to be banned in Victoria’s new builds

GAS connections will be banned in Victorian homes and government buildings built from next year.

The Victorian government announced the changes as part of its plan to reach net-zero emissions in the state by 2045.

From January 1 next year, new residential properties and government buildings will only be powered by electricity.

Energy Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said the changes would help a new homeowner save $1000 in their energy bills.

“We know the cost of living for Victorians is getting bigger and bigger,” she told reporters on Friday.

“Doing something about it is exactly what today is about.”

There will be changes to Victorian planning provisions and schemes to ensure the changes can come into effect.

About 80 per cent of Victorian homes are connected to gas, with the sector contributing about 17 per cent of the state’s emissions.

A new $10 million residential electrification grants program will be established, Ms D’Ambrosio said.

The scheme will be available to volume home builders, developers and others to provide bulk rebates for solar panels, solar hot water and heat pumps to new home buyers.

Environmental advocates and Victoria’s peak building body, Master Builders Victoria, were among the groups that welcomed the news this morning.

“Victoria is the largest user of gas in homes so it is particularly significant that we will be the first state to end new connections,” Environment Victoria CEO Jono La Nauze said

“Gas is an expensive and polluting fossil fuel. The long-term trend is that gas prices will keep rising whilst renewable electricity gets cheaper.”

MBV CEO Michaela Lihou said the change was a positive but must be underpinned with government consultation with the industry on energy needs of different building types.

“Creating a pathway to a cleaner and more sustainable future is a big part of our vision for the Victorian building and construction industry.”

“The decision to cease gas installation on greenfield building sites underscores a commitment for future generations but it’s important for Victorian consumers to have the freedom to make informed choices that suit their needs.

– with AAP