Victorian government backflips on controversial gas ban
The Victorian government has confirmed gas cooktops will not be phased out as part of its net zero emissions strategy, allowing households to keep using gas in their kitchens for the foreseeable future.
Premier Jacinta Allan is set to introduce new laws to support offshore gas storage projects, aiming to maintain dwindling gas supplies and avert potential energy shortages by the end of the decade.
"Gas is part of our energy transition – but the reality is, we’re running out of it," Allan claimed, emphasising the role gas will play in meeting Victoria's energy needs before coal-fired power stations shut down in 2028.
Should politicians in Victoria who are involved in the gas ban have their gas connections immediately disconnected?
— Rukshan Fernando (@therealrukshan) July 31, 2023
How is it fair for politicians to deny new home owners access to gas cooking and heating, while they avail themselves of these conveniences? pic.twitter.com/zxkiTuH0O6
She claimed households they could "keep cooking with gas," though she encouraged the switch to electric appliances to reduce costs, despite major electricity outages becoming a common occurrence in the state.
"We’ll always encourage households to switch to electric appliances, so they can save money on their bills," she said, adding, "That’s just common sense."
Victoria's Labor government..... have you ever meet a bigger bunch of clowns?
— TwinTurboCelica (@TwinTurboCe1ica) September 8, 2024
This gas ban was one of the most stupid ideas someone has ever come up with.
According to Labor, it was better to boil water in a gas power station, than on your gas cook top. 🤡🌎 https://t.co/YbGH2ovoJp
The net-zero road map, led by Energy Minister Lily D’Ambrosio, focuses on moving away from “fossil gas” while excluding discussions about removing existing gas cooktops from homes and businesses. However, new builds will continue to be banned from connecting to gas.
The proposed laws will allow gas to be stored in underwater reservoirs, providing a buffer during peak demand. This legislation is also designed to attract investment, supporting projects like the Golden Beach Gas Project in Gippsland, and possibly opening the door to new gas imports.
Silly @LilyDambrosioMP should have listened in the first place. How that fool keeps a Ministry is beyond me.
— Ron Dunn (@ronInBendigo) September 8, 2024
Victoria to keep gas appliances. (for now) pic.twitter.com/bUikM1nj3y
Energy Minister D’Ambrosio described these steps as a temporary measure while Victoria increases its reliance on renewable energy sources.
