Victorian Government Rebates: Switching from Gas to Electric Heating

A lot of Bendigo households are weighing up whether to replace an ageing gas heater with reverse cycle. The Victorian rebate and incentive schemes can take a decent chunk off the cost, so it's worth understanding what's on offer before you commit.

What's available

There are generally two things working together. The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program provides a discount at the point of installation when you replace a gas or inefficient electric heater with an efficient reverse-cycle system – the discount is applied by an accredited provider, so you don't claim it back yourself. Solar Victoria also runs rebates and interest-free loans for eligible households replacing gas appliances with electric ones.

Who's eligible

Eligibility usually depends on the property type (owner-occupier or rental), the household income threshold for some schemes, the age and type of the appliance being replaced, and whether the new system meets the required efficiency rating. Rental properties have their own pathway, and there are separate rules for new builds. The details shift from year to year, so it's always worth checking the current criteria on the Victorian Energy Upgrades and Solar Victoria websites before you plan around a figure.

What it's actually worth

The value depends on the size of the system, the efficiency of the model you choose and what's being replaced. Replacing a whole ducted gas system usually attracts a larger incentive than a single room heater. The best way to know is to get a quote that already has the discount factored in, rather than a headline number.

Beyond the rebate

The bigger saving is often ongoing. A modern reverse-cycle system delivers several units of heat for every unit of electricity, so heating costs drop compared with gas – and if you have solar, more of that heating runs on your own power. Going all-electric also means you can eventually drop the gas supply charge altogether once the last gas appliance goes.

How we can help

We can talk you through which systems qualify, size the replacement properly for your home, and handle the installation and paperwork side so the discount is applied where it's available. We'll also tell you honestly if your existing gas heater has years left in it and the change-over isn't urgent.

Need a hand?

We're a local Bendigo team and we're happy to take a look. Give us a call on (03) 5444 4677 for honest advice and a free quote.