The ACT's energy transition off gas

Talking points

• The ACT is phasing out fossil fuel gas by 2045. This means that all Canberrans will need to electrify by replacing gas appliances with energy efficient electric options when the time comes.
• The transition is happening sooner than many people expect, and parts of the network may start to close from the mid-2030s onwards, so planning now can help avoid unexpected costs.

You don't need to switch everything at once. Choosing electric when replacing appliances is the simplest way to avoid future costs.

Changes to the gas network will be planned, staged and communicated clearly, with plenty of notice provided before the network begins to shut down.

• The ACT Government will continue to support consumers to transition, including households who may face additional barriers to electrify such as low-income households.
• Support is available to make the switch easier, including financial support for eligible households and businesses, free advice, tools and resources.
• The ACT Government has committed to progress stakeholder consultation to support the transition away from fossil fuel gas.

What you should consider when buying appliances

If your home or business uses gas (for cooking, heating or hot water), you will need to transition to electric appliances over time.

Most appliances last around 10 to 15 years, though some may last longer.

Buying a new gas appliance now could cost more in the long run if you need to replace it again as the gas network begins to be shut down.

When it's time to replace an appliance, choose electric to future proof your home or business and avoid paying twice.

Planning ahead now can help avoid having to replace gas appliances sooner than expected.

Benefits of switching to electric appliances

There are many benefits of choosing energy efficient electric appliances, including:

• Future-proofing your home or business: choosing electric means you will not need to replace gas appliances when the network shuts down.
• Lower energy bills: efficient electric appliances can cost less to run, especially when paired with solar and battery systems. You can also avoid annual gas supply charges (about $300 per year).
• A more comfortable home: modern electric heating and cooling can provide better temperature control.
• Healthier homes and businesses: no indoor gas combustion means better air quality inside your home or business.
• Lower emissions: electric appliances can run on the ACT's 100% renewable electricity supply, which is better for the environment.

Support is available

There is a range of support available for households and businesses, including:

• Sustainable Home Advice Program: the ACT Government's one-stop-shop that provides expert, tailored advice to help households understand their options and plan the transition to electric.
• Access to Electric Program: targeted support to help eligible and low-income households upgrade to efficient electric appliances.
• Sustainable Household Scheme: provides low interest loans to eligible households to help them invest in energy efficient appliances, home batteries, and zero emissions transport options.
• Home Energy Support Program: rebates for low-income households to help them go electric, install home solar, and upgrade insulation. The rebate can also be paired with a zero-interest loan.
• Make Your Next Choice Electric: online tool that helps you identify gas appliances that may need to be replaced in your home, timelines for replacement, estimated costs for upgrades, potential energy savings, and connects you with support.
• Sustainable Business Program: provides support for electrification, with assessments and advice from technical experts and access to resources, training and rebates.
• Find out how to go electric and find out more about supports by visiting energy.act.gov.au.

Why the ACT Government is phasing out fossil fuel gas

• The ACT is moving away from fossil fuel gas to protect consumers, lower energy costs over time, and reach its goal of net zero emissions by 2045.
• Gas currently produces about 18% of the ACT's emissions, so phasing it out is a key step in tackling climate change.
• Before a decision was made by government to phase out gas, we know that many people were already choosing to switch away from gas. The ACT is planning ahead to manage this change in a way that supports consumers.
• Electric appliances are often more efficient and can save households and businesses money on energy bills.

Background

The ACT Government is progressing a long-term transition away from fossil fuel gas to a cleaner, more affordable all-electric energy system.

The ACT has committed to phasing out fossil fuel gas by 2045 as part of its broader climate and emissions reduction targets.

Fossil fuel gas is the second largest source of emissions in the ACT, accounting for around 18% of total emissions.

Strong progress has already been made, with gas consumption declining and many households and businesses choosing to electrify.

There are an estimated 300,000 to 350,000 gas appliances currently in use across the ACT, which will need to be replaced over time.

Most gas appliances (heating, hot water and cooking) have electric alternatives that are already widely available and in use.

Parts of the ACT gas network are expected to become unviable over time due to ageing infrastructure and declining demand.

Some sections of the network may begin to be decommissioned from the mid-2030s onwards.