The ACT government's Integrated Energy Plan suggests a ban on new gas appliances be considered.The government says gas appliances in public and community housing will be replaced with efficient electric appliances by 2030.
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said they were introducing a plan to ensure "that at a certain point we are not putting new gas appliances into households and businesses". Mr Rattenbury acknowledged legislation might need to be considered to make it easier for people who live in apartment complexes to transition from gas.
"Clients are actually scared that they won't be able to get gas appliances in the years to come, so they are actually jumping in now and buying brand new commercial gas hot water systems." The government will also spend $5.2 million over two years to cover the up-front costs of energy efficient upgrades for about 350 low-income households and trial the replacement of wood heaters in public housing properties with electric alternatives.