Households and small businesses across Hobart, Kingborough, Huon Valley and Brighton can now access free, independent advice to help reduce power bills and improve the year-round comfort of their homes.
Launched today, ZapCat provides practical and tailored advice to help residents and businesses to undertake clean energy and energy efficiency upgrades in the participating local government areas.
Homes that are powered with solar panels and home batteries, and that have electric appliances and vehicles are ones that deliver significant financial and health benefits.
Australian Government data shows the average household could save more than $1,000 a year by switching to electric hot water, appliances and heating and cooling systems. These savings jump to around $4,300 annually when the household has an electric vehicle and when it and all household appliances are powered by solar panels and a home battery.
Replacing wood and gas heaters and other gas appliances with electric ones can also improve indoor air quality, with research linking gas cooktops to around 12 per cent of childhood asthma cases.
ZapCat offers tailored advice specific to your home and lifestyle on a wide range of energy upgrades, from solar panels and batteries to electric vehicles, cooktops and hot water systems. ZapCat’s expert advisors can help households and businesses compare product options, estimate upfront costs and long-term savings, and connect with quality vetted local installers.
Support is also available to renters and households looking for simple changes and low-cost options that can reduce energy use and lower power bills.
Community action group Net Zero Channel has celebrated the launch of this program, having recently supported seven households in the Huon Channel area with electrifying their homes.
South Hobart resident Ian Connor is reaping the benefits of going switching to electric appliances powered with solar energy.
“We’ve invested in solar, an EV & charger, heat pumps & solar optimisation – and we haven’t paid an electricity bill in four years,” Mr Connor said.
Brighton Mayor Leigh Gray said this is a timely initiative for households doing it tough.
“At a time when many households are under pressure from the rising cost of living, this program gives residents practical, independent advice to make their homes more comfortable and cheaper to run, whether they own or rent.”.
Kingborough Acting Mayor Christian Street said that this initiative will support residents to be more comfortable and resilient in their homes in the face of extreme heat and cold.
“It’s important that people can be safe and comfortable during increasing heat in their homes as our climate changes. This program provides practical, independent advice to help households make informed energy choices.”.
Acting Huon Valley Mayor Toby Thorpe encouraged residents to take the first step.
“We know many Huon Valley households and small businesses are feeling the pinch of cost-of-living pressures and are keen to make the switch to solar or electric appliances but don’t know where to start. This program makes it easy.”
Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds says, “Every household wants lower bills and a more comfortable home, but knowing where to start can be overwhelming. This service takes the guesswork out of the process, helping people find the changes that will save them money now and continue paying off for years to come.”
“Our community has been clear that they want practical action on the cost of living and climate change. This is a simple step that helps people save money today while building a cleaner, healthier future for Hobart.”
To access this free service, visit the ZapCat website at www.zapcat.com.au/southern-tasmania or via the QR code below.
