How to reduce your energy costs this winter

By Georgia Tacey

May 31, 2023

Tips and tricks: There are ways to reduce your energy usage this winter. Photo: Supplied

Sustainability Victoria has released the latest version of the Household Energy Action Guide to provide householders with cost-effective ways to reduce their energy bills this winter.

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The guide comes as the latest figures show that heating accounts for 43 per cent of the overall energy cost in Victorian households on average, followed by water heating at 17 per cent.

Sustainability Victoria interim chief executive officer Matt Genever said the actions in the Household Energy Action Guide would require minimal effort and cost but would result in big savings.

“We know the cost of heating far outweighs running appliances, lighting or heating hot water,” he said.

“With minor upgrades like draught-sealing, window coverings and insulation, heating costs can be lowered by up to 40 per cent, health improved with a more comfortable temperature and emissions reduced.”

Some tips from Sustainability Victoria to reduce heating costs this winter include closing off rooms not in use, using split-system heating, and heating your house in the Goldilocks zone, around 18 to 20ºC.

With more than 1.3 million homes built in Victoria before 1991 that average below two stars for energy efficiency, taking action to reduce your heating costs will not only improve your home, but according to Sustainability Victoria’s Healthy Homes program, it will also mitigate health risks.

Mr Genever said that even a modest investment could make a big difference to heating costs.

“This is why it’s important to provide householders with practical ways they can reduce their energy costs without breaking the bank,” he said.