Energy in the Home

Solar hot water heater

Producing electricity for homes in NSW is the state's largest contributor to climate change. This is because almost all of the electricity generated comes from power stations that are fuelled by coal, a major source of greenhouse gases. 

Marrickville Council is preparing for the future by reducing its own emissions of greenhouse gases and encourages residents to investigate the ways that they are contributing to climate change. This page provides information on reducing household energy consumption which will both reduce the cost of home energy bills and reduce the impact on the environment.

Hot water

Heating water for washing and bathing is generally the largest contributor to household energy use. However, it is possible to have hot water for in the home without contributing significantly to climate change. Using more efficient ways of heating water such as through heat pumps or solar panels, are effective and 'low carbon' solutions to providing a household with hot water.

For information on solar hot water systems, the following websites may be helpful:

  • Information on rebates for solar and heat pump hot water systems can be found at this page.
  • The Alternative Technology Association provides information on solar hot water systems.
  • The Australian Consumers Association provides a guide to choosing heat pump and solar hot water systems.

Reduce energy use and save money

Often without realising it, we use and spend far more on electricity than is actually necessary. Reducing your use of energy will save greenhouse gases being released and will also save you money. Visit the NSW Governments Save Power website for helpful information and energy saving tips.

Gadgets

There are a range of energy conservation appliances currently on the market that can assist residents to truly understand their home energy use and give them the ability to easily control this consumption. These gadgets can also help progress towards the habit changing behaviour needed to reduce electricity bills and electricity consumption.

Energy saving timerEnergy saving timer – This gadget will remember to turn off appliances when you don't. There a many different models to suit your needs, even specific ones for entertainment units.

Eco switchEco switch – This power board allows you to turn off many appliances at once, eliminating all the standby power used which can add up to 10% of household electricity use.

Smart electricity meterSmart electricity meter – For those who really want to monitor their usage trends this meter allows you to download your consumption data to your home computer and the monitor displays your energy consumption in real time; giving you the information needed to reduce your carbon footprint.

To find out more or to purchase an eco switch, visit the Green Living Centre.

Greenpower

If you are unable to make your own 'low carbon' hot water or electricity, then purchasing electricity from accredited renewable energy suppliers may be a good alternative.

'Greenpower' is the Federal Government's accreditation program for renewable energy and provides a means of ensuring that renewable energy is generated at the highest environmental standards. All major energy suppliers provide Greenpower accredited electricity. Further information on the Greenpower program can be found here.

Generating your own electricity

The abundant sunshine that we receive in Australia can also be converted into electricity via solar (photovoltaic) panels.

Free help to save power for low income households

The NSW Government is offering Low Income Householders free assessments to save 20% on power use.

Energy experts will visit eligible households to offer advice, generate a personal power saving action plan and install a free power saving kit. The kit includes energy efficient light bulbs, low flow shower head, tap aerator and strips around the doorway to stop draughts.

The offer is for pensioners, families on a low income, energy utility hardship customers or heath care and veteran card holders.

For more information call the Home Power Savings Power Program on 1300 662 416 or visit the website. You can also download a flyer for the program.

 

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