New Regulations Aim to Protect Consumers from High-Pressure Sales Tactics and Ensure Trust in the Victorian Energy Upgrades Program
A new ban on doorknocking for the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program takes effect today, aiming to protect consumers from high-pressure sales tactics and other inappropriate marketing practices.
Following extensive consultations over the past year, this ban is designed to shield consumers and encourage professional conduct within the industry, ensuring trust in the program.
The Essential Services Commission, as the independent regulator, will actively monitor compliance with the ban using a variety of tools and will enforce strict penalties for any breaches.
Additionally, a ban on telemarketing under both the VEU and Solar Victoria came into effect on 1 May 2024. Doorknocking for Solar Victoria programs has been prohibited since September 2021.
Despite these changes, VEU accredited providers can continue to use digital and traditional media advertising, along with direct marketing methods such as social media and email.
All Victorian households and businesses, including those in Wyndham, remain eligible for VEU discounts, which apply to heating and cooling, hot water, and more. For instance, households can save around $900 by installing a reverse-cycle air-conditioner to replace an old gas heater, resulting in annual energy bill savings of approximately $150-$200. Similarly, replacing a gas ducted system with a reverse-cycle system can save about $3,600, reducing the annual energy bill by $500-$600.
Victoria’s Gas Substitution Roadmap emphasizes the benefits of homes and businesses going all-electric, highlighting cost savings, environmental advantages, and health benefits.
The government has also announced a $5.9 million investment in the Victorian Budget 2024/25 for a review of the VEU program. This review aims to ensure the program continues to help more Victorians electrify their homes and businesses, cut energy bills, and reduce emissions.
Victorians, including those in Wyndham, are encouraged to report any breaches of the VEU door knocking and telemarketing bans by calling 03 9032 1310 or emailing veu@esc.vic.gov.au.
