SEC digital tool launches in Ballarat

The Victorian Government has launched an initiative to position the State Electricity Commission (SEC) as a one-stop shop for households to switch to all-electric energy by trialling a new digital tool in Ballarat.

The SEC’s pilot includes a free digital platform that asks users to take a short survey about their home and energy use, then develop a plan to reduce their energy bills through electrification. It includes suggestions for suitable appliances, estimated costs, return on investment, government rebates and emissions reductions. The Victorian Government said the survey is available to users across Victoria.

With the launch of the Ballarat pilot, local customers who require more information or want to upgrade their equipment can contact an SEC-inspected installer. Installers can visit your home free of charge and provide a more detailed estimate.

The Victorian Government said the pilot would run until the end of 2024 in Ballarat, Casey and Merry Bec, with the SEC assessing the results before planned expansion to other areas of Victoria.

Modeling shows the average Victorian household with gas and electric appliances could cut their annual energy bills by around $1,400 by switching to an all-electric system, and with the addition of solar, the savings would rise to more than $2,700 a year.

The Victorian Government said the planner will help Victorians understand how they can save on electrifying their homes and make the switch, with more than 3000 households using the planner in the first month.

The SEC is supporting the pilot with a series of free online information sessions where energy experts offer advice on how to support households in making the transition to electricity.

Constitutional Amendment (SEC) Bill 2023 passed by the Victorian Parliament on 15 October 2024, enshrining the SEC in the state constitution.

The Victorian Government said the SEC would invest $1 billion in renewable energy projects, delivering 4.5 GW of electricity through new renewable energy and energy storage projects – enough to power more than 1.5 million homes.

All profits the SEC makes are reinvested back into renewable energy projects, accelerating the delivery of renewable energy projects and helping to create 59,000 jobs, including 6,000 apprenticeships.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said: “Together with the SEC, we are helping busy families reduce their energy costs by creating renewable energy projects for our future and creating a one-stop shop to help them save.”

Victorian State Electricity Commission Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said: “We are putting power back into the hands of families in Ballarat, giving them the tools they need to reduce their energy costs and be part of our nation-leading energy system. transition.”

Victorian Member for Eureka Michaela Settle said Ballarat is the first regional community to take advantage of the SEC’s single window, helping families save money on their energy bills and switch their homes to electricity.

Victorian Member for Wendouree, Juliana Addison, said: “This SEC pilot program will help Ballarat households simplify and tailor affordable plans to electrify their homes to suit their circumstances with the help of a trusted professional.”

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