The ACT continues to lead Australia’s energy transition, offering valuable lessons for other jurisdictions tackling similar challenges. So, how’s it going? Let’s dive into some fresh insights:
- Renters Feeling the Squeeze: According to Joule Thieves, a report by Better Renting, 69% of ACT renters are cutting back on heating or cooling because of high energy costs. Even more worrying, 18% don’t have cooling appliances, putting them at greater risk during heatwaves. However, the introduction of minimum ceiling insulation standards in 2023 has already started making homes more comfortable—though renters noted some concerns about how well these standards are being enforced.
- Insulation Standards Holding Strong: The ACT government’s review into the impact of minimum ceiling insulation standards introduced for rental homes in 2023 was published in September. Market monitoring conducted as part of the report indicated that there were no discernible negative impacts on rental market prices or availability as a result of the standards. The report also showed that while initial implementation costs were higher than estimated, the establishment of training programs for installers had increased the number of installers and helped to bring down installation costs.
- Housing Upgrades Make a Difference: A government evaluation of programs for ceiling insulation and electrification upgrades in public and community housing revealed big wins. Over 71% of residents reported feeling more comfortable. 64% of public housing residents said their overall wellbeing had improved, of these residents 20% noted a boost in their mental health thanks to lower energy bills. The program’s tailored approach, working closely with community housing providers and leveraging existing energy support services, was key to reaching vulnerable households.
- Savings on the Table: The ACT utility regulator’s new report on retail electricity pricing found that switching from the most expensive standing offer to the cheapest market offer could save a typical household up to $780 a year. No surprise then that 83% of customers were on market offers by 2024, compared to just 25% in 2016. However, there’s still work to do, with a 6% rise in people joining energy hardship programs in March 2024 when compared with March 2023
These updates show how policy, community programs, and consumer choice are shaping the ACT’s energy journey. While there’s progress to celebrate, challenges like affordability and reaching vulnerable households remind us there’s more to do.
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