Transition to Electric Heating Before The Winter Chill

As Melbourne enters another chilly winter season, the way we heat our homes is becoming an increasingly urgent topic. With natural gas supplies dwindling and government policies favouring electrification, homeowners face a unique opportunity to prepare for a more sustainable future. 

Transitioning from gas to electric heating aligns with Victoria’s environmental goals and offers long-term benefits to your home’s heating efficiency and cost management.

Here, we’ll unpack the reasons behind the shift away from gas, the advantages of electric heating, and actionable steps you can take to embrace this change before temperatures drop.

The Decline of Natural Gas: What It Means for You

Gas has been Melbourne’s go-to energy source for decades, with over two million homes connected to the gas network. However, times are changing, and Australia’s gas supply is facing serious challenges. 

The Bass Strait gas fields, which historically supplied a major portion of the East Coast’s gas, are rapidly depleting. The Longford Gas Plant, which has contributed two-thirds of Victoria’s gas, is slated for retirement by 2033. 

According to the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), southern states like Victoria may begin to experience peak-day gas shortages as early as 2028, with sustained supply gaps projected from 2029.

This looming supply issue could lead to increased prices for natural gas, higher reliance on imported liquefied natural gas (LNG), and potential energy insecurity. As gas becomes less available and less reliable, Melbourne homeowners will need to reevaluate their dependence on gas-powered heating systems.

Why Electric Heating Is a Better Solution for Your Home 

Recognising the challenges posed by diminishing gas supplies, the Victorian Government has laid out a Gas Substitution Roadmap aiming to phase out gas appliances and promote electrification. By moving to electric heating, homeowners can reduce environmental impacts, align with future regulations, and take advantage of cost-saving incentives that make the switch easier.

Here are three reasons electric heating is worth considering:

Environmental Sustainability

Natural gas is a fossil fuel, and its use is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. These emissions have long-lasting effects on Victoria’s climate goals and Australia’s push toward net-zero carbon emissions. The Victorian Government has already banned new gas connections for residential buildings starting January 2024. 

Over the coming years, existing gas appliances are expected to be replaced with efficient electric alternatives, such as heat pumps and reverse cycle systems, as part of broader efforts to meet sustainability targets.  

Electric heating, especially when matched with renewable energy like solar or wind power, is far more eco-friendly. Systems like reverse cycle air conditioners are capable of running entirely on green energy, helping reduce household carbon footprints while offering year-round climate control for Melbourne’s unpredictable weather.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Modern electric systems are now among the most efficient heating solutions on the market. Appliances such as split system air conditioners with reverse cycle technology can achieve energy efficiencies of up to 300%, meaning you get three times the heat for every unit of electricity consumed. This level of efficiency is a game-changer for Melbourne homeowners, especially those looking to cut heating costs during the colder months.  

The decreasing reliance on gas, combined with Victoria’s increasing renewable energy capacity, is projected to drive further reductions in electricity prices over the next decade. In fact, wholesale electricity costs in Victoria are expected to fall by 9% by 2026, according to the Australian Energy Market Commission, making electric heating an even more attractive option.  

For households with solar power, the savings can be even greater. Installing a solar array paired with a battery storage system enables you to generate and utilise your own clean energy for heating, cooling, and other appliances, further lowering your reliance on higher-priced peak electricity periods.

Future-Proofing Your Home

Investing in electric heating now is about preparing for a cleaner, more sustainable future. The Victorian Government is moving toward regulating the end-of-life replacement of gas heating systems to electric alternatives. This means if your gas heating system needs a replacement in the near future, the only viable option may be an electric one. Transitioning early allows you to avoid unforeseen costs down the line while aligning with future regulations. It’s not just a smart environmental choice—it’s a practical financial one.  

The Ideal Electric Heating Solutions for Melbourne Homes  

When it comes to choosing the right electric heating system for your home, it largely depends on your property size and family needs. Here’s a closer look at the best options:

Split System Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners  

This option is ideal for smaller homes and apartments. Split systems provide effective heating and cooling, delivering year-round climate control in one compact unit. Many homeowners prefer these systems for their quick installation, ease of use, and ability to independently control temperatures in different rooms.

Ducted Electric Heating Systems  

For larger homes or families with higher heating demands, ducted electric heating distributes warm air through a network of ducts, ensuring even and efficient heating throughout your property. Pairing ducted heating with solar panels can amplify energy efficiency even further, and the beauty of a reverse cycle system means you can heat your home in Winter and cool it in Summer using the same network of ducts and controller.

How to Transition to Electric Heating  

Switching from gas to electric heating might feel like a daunting task, but breaking it into manageable steps can simplify the process. Here’s how to begin:

1. Evaluate Current Systems: Assess whether your current heating system is nearing the end of its lifespan. Utility bills, inconsistent heating performance, or frequent repairs might signal that it’s time to upgrade.  
2. Consult a Professional: Heating and cooling experts can help you identify the best electric system for your home. They’ll assess your specific property and recommend energy-efficient options that meet your needs.  
3. Explore Incentives: Renewable energy rebates from federal and state governments can help offset installation costs. Solar rebates, feed-in tariffs, and available grants in Victoria make going green even more affordable.  
4. Plan for the Future: Consider pairing your heating system upgrade with solar panels or battery storage. Doing so ensures you maximise savings while preparing your home for an all-electric future.  

Make The Change Today

The transition from gas to electric heating isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessity. With Melbourne facing dwindling gas supplies, rising electricity affordability, and a government mandate favouring electrification, there’s no better time to act. Making the switch now can help you stay ahead of future regulations, improve energy efficiency, and contribute to Victoria’s zero-emissions goal.

As winter approaches, why not take the opportunity to update your home? By switching to electric heating, you’ll enjoy a cleaner, greener, and more cost-effective solution, keeping your family warm and cozy without the environmental toll.

Think ahead, invest wisely, and prepare for Melbourne’s winters with the power of electricity by your side. Together, we can build a gas-free future.