Daniel Andrews’ decision to ban gas connections to new homes from next year is a decision not backed up by rational thinking, says Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull.

“When you look at some key data, the decision is premature and appears to have been made due to inner city pressure,” Mr Bull said.

“Emissions wise, using electricity in Victoria is five times more carbon intensive than using gas in your home, so it is counter to their objective of reducing emissions and cost wise, residential electricity in Victoria is currently more than double the price as gas on a per unit of energy basis.

“On top of this, the Essential Services Commission revealed 67,413 residential customers required electricity bill assistance in March, the highest number since the relief scheme began in 2019 and we are taking away an option for new home buyers that is presently cheaper and creates less emissions.

“Gas will continue to be part of our energy mix for some time and removing it as an option for new home builds takes away choice.
“With electricity prices going through the roof thanks to Labor’s mismanagement, the Government’s claims of bill savings by forcing people on to electricity alone just cannot be believed given, electricity is much dearer now,” said Mr Bull, who commented his office had received a number of complaints.
“There is also the prospect of a longer-term switch to hydrogen. Countries are currently trialling that switch, so why would we remove the option to have gas reticulation in homes beyond next year.”
Mr Bull said the government is also hypocritical as it keeps telling Victorians gas is running out and the prices are increasing, but then they have prohibitions on gas exploration and production.
“Labor needs to stop pandering to the Greens and take a measured and sensible approach to transition that doesn’t lock us into one technology or another.”

Friday, 4 August 2023