Use less energy

Cleaning air conditioner filters

By reducing your energy use, you can cut your electricity bills, make your home more comfortable and reduce your carbon footprint.

Get the best energy deal

Victorian Energy Compare is the Victorian Government’s free and independent energy price comparison tool. It can help you find the best and cheapest energy offers.

Eligible concession card households may also be eligible for a $100 Power Saving Bonus.

Visit Victorian Energy Compare

You can also contact DIVRS who can help you find the best energy deal, reduce your energy costs and help you with your bills.

Borrow a household energy kit

Darebin Libraries now offer free energy efficiency toolkits for members. Each kit includes simple tools, a step‑by‑step guide, and our top ten tips to help you cut power use and save money. There are eight kits available, with two at each branch, along with four thermal imaging cameras that can also be borrowed.

Drop into your local branch today to borrow a kit and start reducing your energy use.

Borrow a household energy kit

Switch to renewable energy

  • Install solar – solar systems can save their owners 30–60% on their energy bills and pay for themselves in 3–7 years. 
  • Buy GreenPower – everyone can choose GreenPower for clean, renewable energy

Find out more

Improve your home's energy efficiency

Read our top tips for renters and homeowners for using less energy in your home.

Save energy without spending money

  • Wash clothes in cold water, choose short cycles, and wait for full loads
  • Avoid clothes dryers; dry clothes outside or on indoor racks.
  • Switch off lights and appliances when leaving the house or going to bed.

  • Use timers, thermostats, or smart sensors to avoid unnecessary energy use.

Use heating and cooling efficiently

  • Shut doors to unused rooms so you only heat or cool the spaces you use most.
  • In winter, close curtains or blinds after sunset and set your thermostat between 18–20 degrees.
  • In summer, close blinds early and set your thermostat to 25–27 degrees or higher.
  • Use portable or ceiling fans, which cost only $5–$20 per season to run.
  • Clean and maintain split‑system filters every 3–6 months.
  • Use personal heating/cooling options like warm clothing, electric blankets, heat pads, warm socks and footwear, mini USB fans, or a wet towel around your neck

Improve insulation and reduce drafts

  • Seal gaps around windows and doors; block unused chimneys.
  • Use heavy, lined curtains or honeycomb blinds to reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.
  • Add rugs to hard floors to reduce heat loss.
  • Shade windows and walls with blinds, awnings, plants, or trees.
  • Check out these great DIY videos on how to draught proof your house

Upgrade to efficient, electric appliances

  • Replace old bulbs with energy‑saving LED globes.
  • Go electric – efficient electric appliances save you money, reduce emissions and are better for your health than gas appliances.
  • Victorian Government rebates and discounts are available through the Victorian Energy Upgrades Program.
  • Choose with the most energy efficiency stars. More stars means that it uses less energy. It might cost a little more to buy, but will save you money over time. You can learn more at www.energyrating.gov.au.

More information

 

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