Links and Rebates
There is so much information out there about how to become more energy efficient. We’ve done the research so you don’t have to, consolidating a plethora of information right here. Please note that some of these resources relate specifically to the Geelong region, some to Victoria as a whole, and some will be helpful no matter where you live.
My Efficient Electric Home is a Facebook group with over 50,000 members. The group was created in 2015 as a way for people to connect with others and learn how to electrify their home, with an emphasis on shared resources and experiences. The group is steadily growing, particularly in the post-Covid era. Special thanks to MEEH co-founder, Tim Forcey, for providing valuable oversight during the development of this website.
If you are interested in making your home more energy efficient and looking for some tailored expert advice, an excellent place to start is by booking a Victorian Residential Energy Scorecard Assessment. The assessment is a detailed in-home audit where experienced assessors review the property room by room. It reviews the efficiency and resulting running costs of the home taking into account the thermal envelope and fixed major appliances. Note: This link is specific to the Barwon South West area, but a quick internet search will show providers local to you.
As an owner or member of a small business, community energy group, or local council, be sure to keep an eye on Sustainability Victoria’s Grants and Funding page. This page is regularly updated with new grants available for the aforementioned groups, which goes towards activating sustainability in the community at a grassroots level.
As a business or household in Victoria, it’s recommended that you compare your energy usage against other offers about once every year, as the energy market landscape is continuously changing. Unfortunately many of the sites which offer this service are privately owned, and promote particular companies for a fee. The good news is that Victorian Energy Compare provides this service completely free and independently.
There are a range of rebates available for businesses and households under the Victorian Energy Upgrades program. Through this program you can access great rebates on energy efficient appliances such as fridges, hot water systems, and lighting.
The Solar Victoria rebates page is also a great resource and includes links to a wide variety of rebate programs, including VEU and a specific heating and cooling rebate for low income households.
Additional resources
Your Home: guide to sustainable homes - Australian Government
Energy efficiency in the home - Australian Energy Regulator
Top 10 ways to save on energy bills - Victorian Government
Save energy in the home - Sustainability Victoria
Energy Smart Housing Manual - Sustainability Victoria
Rewiring Australia - Saul Griffith
Energy Freedom Home - book by Richard Keech
Videos and webinars - Geelong Sustainability
Home energy efficiency webinar - Lucinda Flynn