Energy and electrification

Clean Energy Nillumbik (CEN) is a volunteer led community group with members committed to accelerating the transition to renewables in the Green Wedge shire.

CEN started in 2017 with a strategy to have 100 per cent of Nillumbik’s buildings powered by renewable energy by 2028. 

For more about CEN or to join visit the Clean Energy Nillumbik website.

Reverse cycle unit bulk buy 

CEN deliver a community bulk purchase program for efficient electric heating and cooling systems.

As part of the Practically Green series of events, CEN have recorded information sessions to help you gain greater understanding of the technology and learn more about the offers and benefits to you.

Find out more about the Community Bulk Purchase Program.

Switching your household or business to renewable energy is key to addressing climate change and reducing costs. You can do this through installing solar panels and/or battery storage or purchasing renewable energy from the grid through purchasing GreenPower through an electricity retailer (see 'Programs to help save energy and reduce bills').

For those looking to install solar panels and/or a battery storage system, Solar Victoria’s Solar Homes Program helps Victorians switch to solar by offering eligible households a rebate of up to $1,400 to install rooftop solar (PV), plus the option of an interest free loan to reduce up-front installation costs.

Interest-free loans of up to $8,800 are also available to eligible households to support the installation of a solar battery.

The independent website Solar Quotes is a great place to start looking for information and local installers. Be sure to check if the provider will apply any rebates to the price on a quote as there are eligibility criteria.

You can also check with your finance provider offers better rates for sustainability upgrades, clean energy or green projects.

See how you can take control of your energy bills and find out what support is available if you need it by visiting the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate action website.

Victorian Energy Compare

The independent Victorian Government energy retailer comparison website has no commercial links to providers. It’s a great way to check if you could get better energy deals and help change provider. The website can help identify green power plans and calculate the potential benefits of installing a home solar system. Visit Victorian Energy Compare.

Victorian Energy Upgrades for homes

The Victorian Energy Upgrades program helps Victorians upgrade their homes and businesses with accredited energy-efficient products and services by offering discounts and rebates. Take advantage of the discounts by these products for your home such as heat pump hot water system, reverse cycle AC, double glazed windows, induction cooktops, underfloor insulation and some efficient appliances.

Further information on VEUs for homes visit Victorian Energy Upgrades.

Further information on VEUs for business visit Victorian Energy Upgrades for businesses.

Residential Efficiency Scorecard

A way for residents to better understand, manage and improve a home’s energy performance.

This home energy assessment program is delivered by accredited assessors to provide a rating out of 10 for utility costs, energy efficiency and the hot weather performance of your home. The certificate offers tailored, prioritised recommendations for home improvements that consider fixed appliances such as heating, rooftop solar, cooling and hot water appliances, as well as the construction and design of your home.

Download an example Residential Efficiency Scorecard Certificate(PDF, 1MB).

Find a Scorecard Assessor and book a Home Energy Assessment at the Home Scorecard website.

Energy and Sustainable Living Advisory Service

Council offers free, unbiased expert advice about ways to improve your home or adapt your lifestyle to save money, reduce emissions and live more sustainably. The service is bookable on the Energy and sustainable living advice page.

Sustainable Home Audit Kits

Sustainable Home Audit Kits are available for residents to borrow from the Yarra Plenty Regional Library. The kits contain an infrared thermal camera, thermometer, water flow measuring cup and energy monitor to assess your home water and energy efficiency. You can borrow a Sustainable Home Audit Kit through Eltham and Diamond Valley libraries.