Digital Government News

Australians conserve energy, reduce heater use

Editors Publicspectrum May 21, 2024

2 min read

Despite the government’s efforts to lower electricity bills, projections indicate that a sizable portion of the population will not use heaters this winter.

Even with the government providing $300 to help with electricity bills, a majority of Australians (53%) intend to conserve energy this winter by relying on warmer clothing instead of using their heaters. Approximately 50% of participants in a recent Finder survey stated their intention to lower their electricity costs by taking easy steps like turning off lights and unused appliances and choosing to wear warmer clothing.

Some individuals mentioned that they would opt to only heat the room they are currently using and would also consider taking shorter showers as a means to cut down on expenses.

“Households have been feeling the pinch of steadily rising energy costs for the past few years.” Finder utilities expert Mariam Gabaji pointed out.

“Many Australians faced higher than normal electricity bills during the summer months,” she said.

“People are now taking matters into their own hands to reduce the cost of their energy bill, especially with winter fast approaching and electricity prices set to change once again on July 1.”

“Even with the new rebates, we’re anticipating some parts of the country will be hit with higher prices.”

According to a recent poll, a significant portion of Australians—27 percent, to be exact—consider their energy bill to be a major source of financial stress. Surprisingly, only 13 percent of consumers are willing to change energy providers in order to lower their winter energy bills. Gabaji advised that Australians should investigate various energy providers and compare their plans in order to potentially save a significant amount of money.

“You can even use your comparisons as leverage when calling your current provider to negotiate a better deal,” she said.

“If you’re struggling to pay your electricity bill, get in touch with your retailer; most have hardship programmes in place to assist customers facing financial difficulties.

“They’ll also be able to tell you if you’re entitled to any government rebates or concessions that can help reduce your energy bill over the year.” Gabaji stated that there are methods to keep warm during the colder months without relying heavily on the heater.

“Layering extra clothes and sealing drafts around windows and doors can help vulnerable Aussies benefit from the cold,” she said.

“Electric blankets are also a great way to keep warm and use up significantly less energy than a heater.”

Editors Publicspectrum

| Website

Public Spectrum is the first knowledge-sharing platform in Australia to embrace the entire public sector. This website is a platform where you can connect, collaborate, empower, inspire, and upskill with public sector professionals.