Victorian Government's energy efficiency initiative welcomed by ICANZ
01/Nov/2007
The Victorian Government's announcement that electricity and gas retailers will provide householders with incentives for improving the energy efficiency of their homes has been welcomed by the Insulation Council of Australia and New Zealand (ICANZ).
Dennis D'Arcy, ICANZ President, said that plans to introduce a Victorian Energy Efficiency Target (VEET) scheme is a significant step in addressing existing market barriers to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, energy bills and improving the quality of life for Victorian householders.
"Victoria was the first state to bring in mandatory 5 Star energy efficiency requirements for new homes, and this VEET initiative is evidence of the government's continued commitment to improving the state's energy efficiency," Mr D'Arcy said.
"VEET sets a new practical benchmark for energy efficiency in existing homes that other governments in Australia should aspire to," he said.
Under the first phase of the VEET scheme energy retailers would offer incentives to householders for undertaking energy efficiency improvement, such as installing energy efficient lighting and appliances, and installing ceiling insulation. Potentially this assistance could be extended to small to medium businesses in the future.
"For householders living in the many older uninsulated homes in Victoria, installing effective ceiling insulation is their single most cost-effective option for achieving better energy efficiency and flow-on financial benefits," he said.
Mr D'Arcy also said that he welcomed the Victorian government's plan to roll out a public information campaign about the scheme and how householders can participate.
"The public is becoming more aware that improving energy efficiency at home offers a broad range of financial, environmental and societal benefits. But householders will need further information showing them how to achieve these. ICANZ has a wealth of expertise and information on improving the energy efficiency of homes and we look forward to assisting the government in any way we can," Mr D'Arcy said.
