Victoria’s Pioneering Gas Substitution Roadmap and VEU Program Expansion

Energy Efficiency Products & Tech ,

Written by Ecovantage 15 Dec,2023

In a monumental stride towards a sustainable energy future, the Victorian Government unveiled its updated Gas Substitution Roadmap this Thursday. This strategic framework charts the course for the state’s transition to net-zero emissions in the gas sector, offering a comprehensive approach that balances environmental responsibility with practical considerations. The announcement is complemented by the extension of the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program to include an Induction Cooktop activity, slated for consultation in the first half of 2024.

Victorian Gas Substitution Roadmap Overview

Deliver More All-Electric Precincts:
Starting from January 1, 2024, all new homes requiring planning permits will be mandated to be all-electric. This ambitious initiative aims to create precincts that exemplify a commitment to sustainable energy practices.

All-Electric, Efficient Homes:
A pivotal aspect of the roadmap involves addressing the pathway to phase out gas use in both homes and commercial buildings in 2024. This concerted effort is aligned with the overarching goal of achieving energy efficiency and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Transition Government’s Own Gas Use:
Leading by example, the government commits to making all new government facilities, including schools and hospitals, exclusively reliant on electricity. This move reinforces the state’s dedication to the electrification transition.

Industrial Users:
Recognising the industrial sector’s role in emissions reduction, the roadmap includes measures to assist industries in adopting renewable gases. This strategic support ensures a smoother transition for sectors with unique challenges.

Build Skills and Capability:
Anticipating the growing demand for expertise in electrification, the roadmap outlines a commitment to increasing skills and training. This initiative is crucial for building a capable workforce capable of steering the transition.

Support Victorians to Participate in the Transition:
To encourage widespread participation, through the VEU program, the government introduces substantial rebates, including:

Unlock Renewable Gases for Hard-to-Abate Sectors:
Acknowledging the challenges faced by hard-to-abate sectors, a policy directions paper is set to be released in mid-2024. This document will provide insights into how renewable gases can be harnessed to service these sectors effectively.

Maintain Gas Reliability Throughout the Transition:
In recognition of short-term supply risks during the transition, the roadmap introduces additional interim gas supply infrastructure. This measure is designed to ensure reliability as the state moves towards a more sustainable energy landscape.

VEU Program Announced to Include Induction Cooktops

On Thursday this week, the Victorian Government released an updated Gas Substitution Roadmap. It included an announcement that the VEU program will expand to include an Induction Cooktop activity, which is set to be consulted on in the first half of 2024. The statement released detailed the benefit of replacing gas cooktops is within a range of $350 to $400 annually on fixed network charges per home. The activity addition comes after the introduction of Space Heating and Cooling, and Heat Pump activities introduced throughout 2023.

In summary, Victoria’s Gas Substitution Roadmap, accompanied by the VEU program expansion, signals a comprehensive and strategic approach towards a sustainable energy future. With a focus on electrification, skill-building, and support mechanisms for industries and households, the roadmap sets the stage for a greener, more resilient Victoria.