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  1. Housing.vic.gov.au
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Energy efficiency in social housing

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We're investing $158 million to support a range of cost-effective energy efficiency upgrades for 35,000 public, community and Aboriginal housing properties.
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The $112 million Energy Efficiency in Social Housing Program (EESHP) has been expanded with a $46 million contribution from the Commonwealth Government.

This program aims to:

  • reduce energy bills of social housing renters, including gas bills by supporting fuel shifting to electric appliances
  • improve thermal comfort of homes and associated health and wellbeing benefits
  • improve household resilience to climate change
  • reduce greenhouse gas emissions

Program eligibility

Eligible properties and upgrades will be prioritised based on a combination of factors, including the existing condition of the home, opportunities for appliance replacement, property location and susceptibility to temperature extremes. Individual renters do not need to lodge an application to participate in the program.

Renters from eligible properties will be notified by an official letter and follow-up phone call to confirm enrolment in the program.

Eligible properties include:

  • Aboriginal Housing
  • Special Disability Accommodation
  • Cooperative Housing
  • Rooming Houses
  • other accommodation owned by Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH)

Upgrades will be available in all regions across Victoria, with prioritisation based on renter needs, housing condition and location, and tailored to the needs of individual properties. Any upgrade of a fixed appliance will involve the removal and replacement of an existing appliance.

Energy efficiency upgrade activities

We are:

  • replacing existing inefficient heaters with efficient reverse cycle air conditioners
  • replacing existing inefficient hot water systems with heat pump hot water systems
  • installing draught sealing and insulation to help maintain a comfortable and healthy temperature all year round

Benefits to renters

Air conditioning

An efficient reverse cycle air conditioner helps to:

  • provide cooling comfort in summer
  • save up to $300 per year on heating running costs compared to a gas heater
  • reduce airborne allergens and gas by-products

Heat Pump Hot Water

An efficient Heat Pump Hot Water system helps to:

  • save up to 70% of electricity consumption than a conventional electric storage hot water system
  • reduce greenhouse gas emissions

Insulation and draught-proofing

Ceiling insulation and draught-proofing helps to:

  • save up to 20% on your heating and cooling energy costs
  • maintain a comfortable and healthy temperature all year round

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to apply for the program?

Renters do not need to apply for the program. Renters from eligible properties will be notified by an official letter and followed by a phone call to confirm enrolment in the program.

Does the upgrade change the rent I pay?

No. The rent will not be adjusted due to the program participation.

What products will be installed?

Only pre-approved high quality products will be installed for the program.

Can I keep the old heater in my room?

No, your new high efficiency reverse cycle air conditioner will replace your existing heater.

Do I need to pay for the upgrades?

No. There is no cost to renters.

How do I use the newly installed system?

You will receive a handy poster with appliance usage tips in a letter after the installation. Alternatively, you can find more ways to save energy here Sustainability Victoria save energy in the home.

Do I need to choose the upgrade types?

No. Eligible properties and upgrades will be prioritised based on a combination of factors, including the existing condition of the home, opportunities for appliance replacement, renter circumstances and susceptibility to temperature extremes. Most common upgrades are likely to be replacement of major fixed appliances with efficient heating or hot water systems, and installation of insulation and draught proofing.

What do I need to do during the installation?

Please ensure safe access for the approved contractors to carry out the installation. Upgrade installations will be completed by approved contractors only. All contractors are required to carefully follow their COVIDsafe plan.

Will the upgrades include solar panels?

The focus of this program is on energy efficiency improvements to homes and not the installation of solar panels. Renters can apply to their local housing office for a permit to install solar panels on their home if they are able to fund the installation themselves.

What if the newly installed product needs service?

If you need any maintenance or repairs, contact the Housing Call Centre on 13 11 72. The Housing Call Centre arranges responsive maintenance for public housing properties.

Contact

Email: energyefficiencyprogram@homes.vic.gov.au