The Victorian and New South Wales governments have collaborated with the Energy Efficiency Council (EEC) to develop a roadmap that aims to improve the development of heat pump technology as consumer interest continues to rise.
Jointly funded by both governments, the Roadmap for Heat Pump Hot Water Systems in Australia provides industry and governments a path forward to scale-up the heat pump hot water market.
The roadmap includes 17 recommended actions, including revising standards, end-of-life stewardship, industry training, product quality, consumer protections, minimum energy performance standards, and auditing of installations.
The Victorian Government said that the uptake of heat pumps in both states has been significant in the last 12 months, with more than 104,000 across both states, driven by the Victorian Solar Homes Program and the New South Wales Energy Savings Scheme.
The Victorian Government also said that water heating is a major source of household energy in Australia, accounting for around 23 per cent of a home’s total energy use. By replacing a gas hot water system with a quality heat pump hot water system, consumers are estimated to save up to $250 per year, on top of additional savings in going all-electric.
Both governments are expected to progress a key recommendation to develop a consultation group of industry representatives to support and oversee the development of systems and standards.
Victorian Minister for Climate Action, Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio, said, “I commend the industry on its leadership, recognising that heat pumps are a key technology that is growing rapidly in popularity, and that success of this emerging industry and technology relies on consumer confidence.”
New South Wales Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe, said, “We’re pleased to partner with the Victorian Government and industry to drive heat pump technology which is providing a more sustainable and cost-effective solution for households across our states.
“We want every Australian to have access to cleaner and cheaper energy and this roadmap will help us to reach that goal.”
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