The Australian Pipelines and Gas Association welcomes the Victorian Government partial course correction on gas, but warns potential bans to gas hot water and space heating appliances would make the plan unworkable, threatening the long-term viability of the more than 60,000 businesses dependent on gas supply.
The Victorian Government’s proposal to sign new contracts to firm up supply for gas-fired generation, as well as excluding gas cooktops from its net zero road map are welcome but without including space heating and hot water appliances as well, it threatens to viability of the gas networks needed to deliver the plan.
APGA chief executive Steve Davies says the state government deserves credit for unwinding part of its position, but clarity is needed on whether gas hot water and space heating appliances will be banned.
“The Victorian Government must be clear that this isn’t tokenistic. It cannot be a case of allowing people to keep gas cooktops but then taking away their ability to choose gas heating and hot water,” Mr Davies said.
“Such a move would be strongly opposed. It threatens consumer choice, the future of the state’s gas networks, and by extension, the 60,000 businesses connected to it that are driving the state economy.”
“It would be like preparing for the Spring Racing Carnival by readying the horses but forgetting the racetrack. This plan simply cannot happen without the supporting infrastructure needed to deliver it.”
APGA urge the Victorian Government to reduce electricity demand by developing renewable gases, alongside renewable electricity, to help reduce the increasing strain on its brown coal-fired power grid.
Last year, dual-fuel homes have much lower emissions than all-electric homes, emitting 2.83 tCO2-e per annum, compared to 3.43 tCO2-e per annum for all-electric homes – which is more than 20 per cent higher.
About
The Australian Pipelines and Gas Association (APGA) represents the owners, operators, designers, constructors, and service providers of Australia’s pipeline infrastructure, connecting natural and renewable gas production to demand centres in cities and other locations across Australia. Our members offer a wide range of services to gas users, retailers and producers and ensure the safe and reliable delivery of 28 per cent of the end-use energy consumed in Australia.
Contact
For further information or the opportunity to engage with Mr Steve Davies please contact:
Paul Purcell
Corporate Affairs Manager
0422 247 750