Energy efficiency in the home: Small switches key to cutting emissions and costs

ANZ and the Energy Efficiency Council (EEC) today released a new report which details the practical steps Australians can take to improve the energy efficiency of their homes, and the climate and financial benefits of making our households more sustainable.

The report, Putting energy efficiency to work at home, marks the third and final instalment of ANZ and the EEC’s Forgotten Fuel series – a trio of reports exploring the ways businesses and households can use energy efficiency as a tool to supercharge emissions reduction, save money, and improve health and wellbeing.

The report outlines immediate and longer-term actions Australian renters and homeowners can take to improve their energy efficiency and save on costs at home. It emphasises the often ‘forgotten’ switches that can significantly reduce carbon emissions and help lower the cost of household energy bills.

ANZ Group Executive Australia Retail, Maile Carnegie said: “We’re hopeful our final Forgotten Fuels report will empower Australians to make simple changes that contribute to a big difference. Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, there’s no action too small in the path to cost reduction and improved comfort in your home.

“From everyday choices such as using appliances during off-peak times to larger switches such as investing in heat pumps, all Australians have the opportunity to improve their energy efficiency and save on household bills,” Ms Carnegie said.

Energy Efficiency Council CEO Luke Menzel said “Energy is a significant outgoing for many households, but the good news is there are plenty of things families can do to drive down their bills.

“The trick is knowing what your options are. This partnership between the Energy Efficiency Council and ANZ is putting that information in the hands of more Australian families, just when they need it,” Mr Menzel said.

Putting energy efficiency to work at home recommends pragmatic solutions and everyday actions, including:

-        Thermal efficiency: Insulation can reduce the cost of heating and cooling by 45%. Sealing gaps in walls, floorboards or around doors is a simple step to significantly improve comfort and keep energy and costs lower in the home.

-        Behaviour changes: Adopting simple daily habits such as turning air conditioners to fan mode and using washing machines and dishwashers when rooftop solar is active, or when being charged off-peak tariffs can lead to significant energy cost reductions.

-        Smart controls: Smart devices optimise behaviour changes by enabling automation and remote control. For example, smart appliances can be turned on, and smart air conditioners can pre-heat and -cool homes at times when electricity is cheapest, including when people aren’t at home.

The report also outlines the power of home energy assessments, which will soon be available to select ANZ customers under the Australian Government’s trial of the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS). Under the trial, eligible ANZ customers applying to refinance or top up their mortgage are invited to receive a free home energy rating and certificate from a trusted valuer to identify where efficiencies and cost-savings can be made.

The Forgotten Fuels series is just one of the ways ANZ is committed to helping customers adapt to the changing environment and economy, as outlined in our five-year Climate and Environment Strategy.

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