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Category: Oil and Gas / Electricity Energy and Utilities / Business, Economics and Finance

Should you switch off your gas?

Thursday, 9 Mar 2017 11:27:27

A solar system installer adjusts solar panels on the roof of a house in Sydney in August, 2009. (Reuters: Tim Wimborne)

Consumer groups believe it is too early to advise people whether to switch away from gas, despite the forecast by the Australian Energy Market Operator of a looming shortage on the country's east coast.

Energy Consumers Australia (ECA) said householders should instead research the most competitive offers available from across the range of energy providers.

"When consumers do that, the savings are generally in the order of $100-200 a year. For an hour of time, it's worth doing," ECA CEO Rosemary Sinclair said.

The public body established by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) is waiting for the full findings of an independent report into the country's electricity market by chief scientist Alan Finkel, before making recommendations to consumers on the best longer-term approach to managing household energy use.

"Short-term reaction would not be in their best interest," Ms Sinclair said.

Solar, LED lights, among recommendations for reducing bills

In the meantime, experts urge consumers to reduce their energy bills by finding out the most efficient temperature to operate an air conditioner, the best time to use appliances, and not to use multiple appliances at once.

Installing LED lights and buying newer and more energy efficient appliances are other ways to reduce consumption.

"My main recommendation is to think carefully and seek advice from the retailers and manufacturers," Ms Sinclair advised.

"Think about the upfront and ongoing costs and your own use of the appliance. All those factors have to be taken into account."

However, the Climate Council recommends consumers look into installing solar panels to reduce their reliance on power from the grid.

"1.5 million households have chosen to do that. In addition household level battery storage is becoming cheaper. That will stabilise their energy source," energy analyst Andrew Stock said.

About 35 per cent of households are thinking of investing in solar panels in the next five years, but that is not an option for all consumers, according to ECA.

"There are a significant number of consumers who are renting or who cannot afford those options," Ms Sinclair said.

"The prices have fallen quite significantly, which is why it's more viable for many consumers, but there is still an upfront cost to consider."

Consumers are advised to consider energy supply when building new houses as well.

"The main use of gas is in central heating and hot water, so if you're building a new house think about reverse cycle air-conditioning or heat pumps" Mr Stock said.

More information on how to pay less on your energy bills can be found at www.energymadeeasy.gov.au.

AustraliaPlus


 

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