Got questions?
We've got answers.
Here’s a list of the most commonly asked questions that we hear.
This program is a Geelong Sustainability initiative, delivered by RACV Solar, Jeztek and Reclaim Energy. The program is also supported by local councils and community groups across the G21 region.
The Electric Homes program is open to households across the Greater Geelong, Surf Coast, Colac Otway and Golden Plains Shires, and Queenscliffe Borough.
The Electric Homes program for is now closed and installations are rolling out. There will be a second round of the Electric Homes Program happening in 2024.
Register your interest on our website or in person at one of our community events to speak to our delivery partners and receive a tailored quote.
Installation times will vary depending on the product and demand on the program. Typical installation times for solar systems, batteries and electric vehicle chargers are between 6-10 weeks while heat pump hot water systems and split system heating and cooling systems are typically installed within 4-6 weeks. Please talk to your consultant to get an accurate estimate of timeframes.
Rebates for solar panels and hot water heat pumps are available for eligible households thorugh the Victorian Government' Solar Homes Program. Other incentives, including small-scale technology certificate (STCs) and Victorian energy efficiency certificates (VEECs), may also be available. Ask our expert delivery partners about your rebate options when discussing your needs.
Once you’ve eliminated your home’s gas usage, you can disconnect your home from the gas network altogether to avoid paying the connection fee. Permanent gas disconnection costs are now capped at $220, though other fees and exit charges may apply. Talk to your utility provider directly to find out more.
According to Rewiring Australia, you could save up to $3,450 on running costs per year by going all electric. This includes switching to rooftop solar, split system heating & cooling, a heat pump hot water system, induction cooking and an electric vehicle. That really adds up!
Depending on your system, most good-quality solar systems will pay for themselves in around 5-10 years.
When it comes to solar, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. In order to design the right solar system for your needs, our solar delivery partner RACV Solar will review your energy usage to provide a solution tailored for your needs now and into the future.
When you install solar panels and a battery, your battery will store any excess solar power that's not being used in your home during the day for use later on. So you can power your home with solar energy day and night, reducing your power bill and emissions even further.Some batteries also come with backup power, meaning you could power some or all of your house during a power outage.
Heat pumps are very quiet with the Reclaim heat pump measuring just 37dB and the Apricus heat pump measuring 56dB. For comparison, regular household fridges average around 30-50dB.
The size of the system you’ll need will depend on the size of the space you’re heating/cooling.
We offer a range of split system sizes through the program and our delivery partner will work with you to identify the right size for your home.
Split systems are available through the program as these are one of the most efficient heating and cooling options available. We are not offering whole of house multi-split or ducted systems, or replacements for gas hydronic boilers. Please contact Geelong Sustainability for a referral to local suppliers for these products.