CEHL is committed to enhancing energy efficiency and climate resilience in its properties. Following the completion of the Climate Risk Assessment Project, the Asset Management Team has been actively working on various initiatives to achieve these goals.
Our strategy
Our strategy is visualised as a pyramid diagram, starting with the primary objective of reducing energy costs. We aim to reduce energy demand through efficient appliances, better home insulation, and draught-proofing. As energy demand decreases, we plan to incorporate appropriately sized solar systems and explore future options like microgrids and renewable energy storage.
Steps to achieve our goals
The first step, reducing energy costs, is something renters can do themselves. The other steps are a collaborative effort between co-ops and CEHL. Renters can also contribute, for example, by draught-proofing (please see the renter modification process).
Challenges and solutions
Securing funding for solar system installations remains a challenge for both CEHL and co-ops, as budgets prioritise essential maintenance and upgrades. To address this issue, we are actively seeking ways to share savings from these initiatives to fund solar installations and resolve the split incentive problem.
The Maintenance Stimulus Project
We are excited to announce the Maintenance Stimulus Project, which allocates funds to improve energy efficiency and climate resilience in approximately 160 high-priority CEHL homes.
Key activities include:
- Replacing heaters with reverse cycle split system air conditioners.
- Upgrading hot water systems with heat pumps.
- Adding ceiling insulation and draught-proofing.
Transition to electrical appliances
We encourage all co-ops to transition to electrical appliances for several reasons. Gas prices are rising, the electricity market is shifting toward renewables, and fixed gas connection charges can be costly for small properties. This shift aligns with CEHL’s future plans for solar panel installations.
Seeking rebates and grants
CEHL is in close contact with Victorian government departments to access rebates and grants for improving energy efficiency. We hope to supplement these incentives with funds from Homes Victoria to cover the entire upgrade cost, and CEHL will work closely with co-ops to implement a bulk upgrade program when available.
Pilot retrofit project
CEHL is actively working on a pilot project to significantly reduce carbon emissions through home retrofits. We are also exploring financing methods for these retrofits, providing a solution to the split incentive issue, especially concerning solar panels. More information on this project will be shared soon.
Collaboration and sharing ideas
In the spirit of collaboration, we encourage you to share your energy and water-saving ideas with the co-op community. Earth CERC, a model cooperative, has successfully improved energy efficiency and transition to renewable energy sources, developing an Energy Freedom project. If you have energy or water efficiency tips to share, please email them to energyupgrades@cehl.com.au. Your contributions will benefit the entire co-op community and advance our collective efforts to make our properties more energy-efficient and climate-resilient.
Energy efficiency tips
Here are some valuable energy efficiency tips that can help you save money and reduce your environmental impact. These tips have been curated from expert sources, including the Australian Energy Foundation, Sustainability Victoria, and the Department of Environment, Land, Water, and Planning.
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Upgrade to a water-efficient shower head
Installing an efficient shower head can trim your annual energy bills by up to $15. Combine it with slightly shorter showers to maximize savings. For instance, a 10-minute shower with a standard shower head consumes 105 litres of water, while an 8-minute shower with a 3-star shower head only uses 50 litres. Keep in mind you're also cutting down on the cost of heating that water. -
Set your hot water thermostat to 60°C
Adjusting your hot water thermostat to 60 degrees Celsius for storage can significantly reduce energy consumption. Just ensure you don't lower the temperature below 60 degrees to safeguard against legionella. -
Wash laundry in cold water
Opt for a cold water cycle when doing laundry to save a remarkable 80% of the energy required for a warm water cycle. -
Use mulch in your garden
Applying mulch in your garden can reduce water evaporation by up to 70%, which is crucial as outdoor water use accounts for a substantial portion of the average Australian household's water consumption. In hot weather, it's advisable to water your garden in the morning or evening to minimize evaporation during the day. -
Choose more efficient appliances
When it's time to replace heaters and hot water services, consider upgrading to more energy-efficient models for long-term savings.
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Consider a split system
Split system heaters are among the most energy-efficient and cost-effective options. According to Choice magazine, they are the most economical choice for heating a small room, with annual costs as low as $113. -
Set the temperature
Every degree above 20°C on your thermostat can add 10% to your heating bill, so aim for a range between 18°C and 20°C during winter. This principle also applies to your fridge—ensure it's set to 3-5 degrees and freezers at -15 degrees to save energy and reduce bills. -
Change Your light bulbs
Swapping out old incandescent and halogen light bulbs with energy-efficient alternatives can save you up to $16 per bulb each year. -
Window film
Window films are an excellent solution to enhance the energy efficiency of your windows. Depending on the type you select, they can help retain heat during winter and block heat during summer. These films can reduce heat loss by up to 50% in winter and block up to 85% of the sun's heat in the summer. -
Draught proofing
Detecting draughts is vital for energy efficiency. Check for daylight under doors or around window frames, observe curtains or blinds moving in the wind, or use a tissue to see if it flutters near fireplaces or floorboards. If needed, invest in products to seal gaps around doors, considering factors like door swing direction and the type of flooring. For sealing door edges, measure the gap to select the appropriate seal, which typically comes in foam rubber or plastic rolls. Addressing large gaps around doors and windows may require carpentry work to reduce the openings.
We encourage you to explore these tips to make your home more energy-efficient and cost-effective. Your efforts in conserving energy benefit your household and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Advocacy
CEHL serves as the representative for housing co-operatives throughout Victoria.
