Reduce

Reduce 1/3: Energy Efficiency

Most emissions in Benalla (82%) come from electricity use in residential homes (27%) and industrial and commercial (55%) businesses. This equates to approximately $26 million per year in electricity costs to the community. Much of this expense is wasted in drafts, air leaks around openings, and outdated heating and cooling systems. By reducing these losses through energy efficiency upgrades, Benalla can save money and provide more comfortable homes and businesses.

REB is concerned to improve the energy efficiency of buildings to reduce energy demand and energy bills.

In 2018 and 2019 REB members designed and presented a workshop series 'Reduce Energy Bills and Increase Thermal Comfort' These free 2-hour workshops focused on improving the energy efficiency of existing buildings, making them more comfortable and reducing energy bills.

Workshop 1   Understanding energy bills and getting the best rate
Workshop 2 Draught Proofing & Insulation
Workshop 3   Lighting & Windows
Workshop 4   Efficient Hot Water Systems, Heating and Cooling
Workshop 5   Appliances & Cooking; Transitioning from Gas
Workshop 6 Energy Monitoring, Solar Power & Batteries

Voluntary Home Energy Efficiency Advisor Training May 2022

On 23rd, 24th and 25th May 2022 two of our members completed Voluntary Home Energy Efficiency Advisor training provided by the Hume Community Power Hub, https://www.communitypowerhub.net.au/hume/.

Community Power Hubs provide grants for community groups to install renewable energy and undertake energy audits, https://www.communitypowerhub.net.au/.

Indigo Power https://indigopower.com.au/about-us/, and GV Community Energy https://www.gvce.com.au/ are jointly delivering the Hume Community Power Hub.

Once endorsed our Voluntary members will be able to advise about improving Home Energy Efficiency. We hope to then have a contact form here to use this service.

Some Resources

BZE’s Energy Freedom Home, a resource that provides nine key steps to create more comfortable homes and buildings for lower ongoing running costs, along with resources listed in the right hand column, underpins REB's interventions to increase building efficiency. Sustainability Victoria's video 'Energy Efficiency at Home' is also highly recommended: