Getting Off Gas
As we strive to build a sustainable and environmentally friendly future, it becomes increasingly important to re-evaluate the appliances we use in our homes. Gas appliances, have been promoted to us as clean, which it certainly is not, and is called Natural Gas which is an accurate name but it is only as natural as is arsenic.
1. Climate Change and Emissions: Natural gas, primarily composed of methane, is 87 times more potent a greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide. It is released into the atmosphere in its production, transmission and use.
2. Air Quality and Health: Burning gas in our homes releases carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, leading to respiratory issues, *asthma, and even cancer. Transitioning to electric appliances eliminates these health risks, improving indoor air quality and safeguarding the well-being of our families.
3. Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings: Electric appliances have made significant strides in energy efficiency in recent years. Gas appliances suffer from inefficiencies due to heat loss through flues and venting systems.
4. Renewable Energy Integration: Shifting away from gas appliances aligns with the broader goal of transitioning to a renewable energy future. Homeowners can power their electric appliances with clean, sustainable energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
5. Technological Advancements: The rapid advances in electric appliance technology have made them increasingly efficient, affordable, and versatile. From electric stoves and ovens to heat pumps and water heaters, a wide range of electric alternatives are now available to suit every homeowner's needs. Embracing these innovations presents an opportunity to modernize our homes while reducing our environmental impact.
6. Price and Supply: 95.7% of Australia’s LNG (Liquid Natural Gas) export companies are foreign owned** and this is a key driver of shock domestic gas prices. AEMO, the Energy Regulator has warned of gas shortages this coming winter and a long-term gap from 2027.
How to get off gas
As our gas appliances come to the end of their useful life, they can be replaced with electric appliances which will not only be cleaner but less expensive to operate. A heat pump hot water system is an excellent example of how electric technology can save money. A heat pump can take 1 kW of electricity and create 4 kW of heat by using the temperature of the air! Reverse cycle air-conditioner also uses heat pump technology and is an easy way to move away from gas heating systems. Induction cooktops are the most efficient way to cook food. And this all takes electricity which is also going up in price at an alarming rate.
The way to offset these rising energy prices is to install a solar panel system on your roof and while it is a substantial investment, at the moment, there are generous government incentives to help us go down this path.
Go Renewable Energy Group (GREG) is a volunteer organization based in the Macedon Ranges who been through a rigorous selection process to select trusted partners who can deliver high quality installations of long lasting, efficient solar systems, heat pumps and reverse cycle air-conditioners at community buy favourable pricing. They are offering consultations with energy experts free of cost and obligation. To book an informative meeting to tell you all you want to know about these energy, cost and environment saving devices please complete an Expression of Interest Form on: mrsg.org.au/greg
Transitioning away from gas appliances in our homes is a crucial step towards a greener and more sustainable future. By prioritizing renewable energy integration, improving air quality, and reaping the benefits of energy efficiency, we can play an active role in mitigating climate change and creating healthier living environments for ourselves and future generations. It's time to embrace this transition and make a positive impact, one household at a time. By going to an all-electric home we can cut one bill out of expenses and you just have to look at your daily supply charge on your gas bill to see why this is a good idea!