3 Easy Ways to Tackle Rising Gas Prices

3 Easy Ways to Tackle Rising Gas Prices

In 2023, rising gas, petrol and electricity prices continue to dent our wallets and impact our daily lives.?

As Australians, we understand - of course - the struggle of increasing fuel costs and the need for sustainable alternatives. Over the past 12 months, all Australian living cost indices have risen between 7.1 per cent and 9.6 per cent for all households, compared to a 7 percent annual increase in inflation

And yet, knowing where to start in tackling all this can be a tricky task.?

In this blog, we'll explore three easy ways to mitigate rising gas prices, ranging from increasing the energy efficiency of your home systems and appliances to embracing renewable energy sources like solar. By implementing these solutions, not only can we save money but also contribute towards a greener and more sustainable future.

Let’s get started.

1. Increase the energy efficiency of your everyday appliances

Improving the energy efficiency of your appliances is a great way to reduce your energy consumption and, consequently, lower your petrol expenses.?

According to the Australian Energy Regulator, households can save up to $110 annually just by using energy-efficient appliances and lighting - some of the smallest but most effective changes you can make to your daily usage. Here are a few tips to get started:

• Replace old incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights
• Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances with high-star energy ratings
• Switch off appliances when not in use and unplug chargers
• Opt for appliances models that combine functionalities - e.g. microwave convection ovens

2. Embrace solar panels

Solar panels are an excellent investment that can significantly reduce your reliance on the grid and lower your petrol-related expenses. And the best thing? With a huge range of government incentives available, they’re now more affordable than ever before.

Clean Energy Council Australia reports that our country has the highest uptake of rooftop solar panels globally. With Australia’s ample sun and wide open spaces, it’s no surprise. According to recent statistics, Australia has witnessed a significant increase in the adoption of solar panels in residential homes.?

As of September 2022, it’s estimated that around 30% of Australian households have installed solar panels on their rooftops. This demonstrates the growing popularity and acceptance of solar energy as a viable and sustainable option for generating electricity - especially with existing and ever-evolving government incentives for installing solar panels with the option of added solar battery storage.

Here's why solar panels can make a difference:

• Generate your own electricity: Solar panels harness sunlight to produce clean and renewable energy, reducing the need for electricity from traditional power sources
• Feed excess energy back into the grid: Through net metering programs, Virtual Power Plants (VPP) and use of solar battery storage, excess energy generated by your solar panels can be fed back into the grid, potentially earning you credits on your electricity bill
• Enjoy the savings: According to estimates provided by the Australian Energy Council, a household with a 6.6-kilowatt (kW) solar system can save around $900 to $1,500 per year on electricity bills (at the very least) - from this angle, it’s likely that your new solar PV panel system will pay for itself in just a few years’ time

You can check out our solar panels on the website, as well as our SunPower Maxeon panels that come with an industry-best 40-year warranty.

Yep - a four-decade warranty!

3. Swap out gas/electric appliances and systems

Transitioning from gas or electric appliances to more energy-efficient alternatives can lead to significant savings in the long run.?

Here are a few ideas to consider:

• Induction cooktops: These cooktops use electromagnetic energy to heat pots and pans directly, providing faster and more efficient cooking than traditional gas or electric stoves.
• Electric vehicles (EVs): Consider transitioning to an electric vehicle, which can substantially reduce your reliance on petrol and decrease your carbon footprint.
• Opt for heat pump hot water: Heat pump hot water systems are gaining popularity in Australia due to their energy efficiency. According to the Alternative Technology Association, heat pumps can use up to 70% less energy than traditional electric storage systems.?
• Carpooling and alternative transport:
• Reducing the number of vehicles on the road is an effective way to combat rising petrol prices and traffic congestion. Consider the following options:
• Carpooling: Share rides with colleagues, friends, or neighbours travelling in the same direction. Websites and apps like CarpoolWorld and Liftango make it easy to find carpool partners.

Wrapping up

Rising gas prices can be a cause for concern, but with these three easy strategies, you can have confidence to combat the issue while embracing energy efficiency and sustainability.?

By increasing the energy efficiency of your appliances, installing solar panels, swapping out gas/electric appliances, opting for more energy-efficient systems like heat pump hot water, and embracing alternative transportation methods amongst other small changes to your daily routine, you’ll not only save money but also contribute to a greener future for Victoria and Australia alike.

To learn more, visit our Learning Centre or give our friendly, award-winning team a call today on 1300 766 940.

We can’t wait to meet you!