Let's electrify!

Electrify your home

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Electrify everything in your home or business for a cleaner and healthier future. We encourage everyone to explore the different actions you can take. And remember, it doesn’t need to happen all at once. 

5 main ways to electrify your home or business

Solar or GreenPower

Installing solar is a way to harness free electricity from the sun in the daytime. Check out our bulk buy solar program for home owners.

While not all households can install solar, anyone can ask for accredited GreenPower from their electricity company to know their electricity is from renewable sources.

Free energy audits are available for apartment buildings or commercial properties.

Reverse cycle for heating

Reverse cycle air-conditioners both heat and cool; split system air conditioners only cool. Single reverse cycle air-conditioning units can be the cheapest to run for winter heating. For cooling, look for the highest star ratings, as those with the highest rating will save the most over time. The NSW Government has a program to help you replace your old air conditioning system for a more energy efficient model.

Upgrade to an electric heat pump hot water system

Hot water heating accounts for over a quarter of average household energy costs. It pays to work out your preferred system before the current one fails. Heat pumps are commonly used in Europe and use a lot less energy which is then cheaper to run in the long term. Heat pumps can also be installed in multi-storey apartment buildings.

Electric transport

Electric bikes and cars powered by renewable energy are cleaner, quieter, and cheaper to run than a standard petrol or diesel car. In our area there are 6 Council operated EV charge locations. Switch to electric and ride or drive into the clean energy future.

Induction cooking

Induction cookware is gaining in popularity amongst households and chefs, for its responsiveness and safety. It works differently to standard electric hot plates, using a magnetic charge rather than a heated element. New wiring is likely to be needed for an induction cooktop so check first with an electrician. To see if your cookware is compatible, try using a magnet – if it sticks, you won’t need replacements.

Resources to help your transition 

Make your guide to electrify everything

Planning out when your appliances will need to be replaced is the perfect way to efficiently electrify everything over time. So when a major appliance like hot water needs replacing, you are ready to make the switch. Print off and use the guide below for your home. 

Electric guide(PDF, 137KB)

Check out how much you can save

Use this savings calculator from the Climate Council to find out how much you could save by switching your appliances to electric. It all adds up!

Read how to upgrade to an environmental and sustainable home

Sustainable homes maximise the use of energy-efficient products and environmentally durable materials for long-term lifestyle benefits. This can reduce ongoing household costs due to lower energy bills and reduced maintenance costs. Take a look at this comprehensive guide from the Australian Government.

What are the benefits for you?

  • Healthier home environment
  • Modern electric appliances are cheaper and cleaner to run
  • Lower greenhouse gas emissions which helps mitigate climate change.

Local electric hero

Willoughby Council resident Brian Peck lives in a 48 unit apartment building in Chatswood. He collaborated with his building’s strata committee to install a 30kW rooftop solar PV system and replace the building’s gas hot water system with an industrial electric heat pump. The solar PV system contributes significantly to the electricity needed for the communal areas and the running of the heat pump. The heat pump supplies hot water to all units.

Find out more about Brian's inspiring electrification story