As Victorians look for ways to reduce energy costs and contribute to a greener environment, the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program offers substantial incentives. Through the VEU, households and businesses can receive rebates and discounts on energy-efficient appliances and systems.
A key step to accessing these benefits is choosing the right VEU accredited provider. In this guide, we’ll cover what to look for in a provider, how they help you secure discounts, and how the program’s benefits differ for residential and commercial properties.
Why Use a VEU Accredited Provider?
VEU accredited providers are authorised companies that partner with the Essential Services Commission to offer rebates and discounts on eligible energy-efficient products. These providers simplify the process by managing the paperwork, calculating discounts upfront, and handling installation in many cases. By working with an accredited provider, you’ll gain:
- Upfront Discounts: Providers apply the rebate directly, reducing your upfront costs.
- Streamlined Process: They handle necessary paperwork and approvals.
- Certified Installation: Many accredited providers include professional installation, ensuring your product meets VEU standards.
Whether upgrading heating, cooling, or appliances, a VEU accredited provider helps you secure discounts while making your home or business more energy-efficient.
VEU Accredited Providers for Homes
The VEU program offers residential incentives to reduce energy bills, upgrade appliances, and decrease carbon footprints.
Here’s a breakdown of how accredited providers can help Victorian households benefit:
How to Receive a Discount as a Homeowner
Homeowners have two main options to access VEU discounts:
- Accredited Provider Installation
- Choose an Eligible Upgrade: Select an energy-efficient product or system approved by the Essential Services Commission.
- Get Upfront Discount: The provider applies the rebate or discount upfront, lowering your purchase cost.
- Installation by the Provider: The provider completes the installation and manages compliance with VEU standards.
- Choose Your Own Installer
- Select an Accredited Product: Choose a product from the VEU-approved list.
- Hire a Qualified Tradesperson: Work with a licensed tradesperson who partners with an accredited provider.
- Discount Applied to Quote: The installer calculates the discount, completes installation, and returns the paperwork to the provider for final processing.
Residential Upgrades Available Through the VEU Program
Homeowners can save on several types of energy-efficient upgrades, including:
- Heating and Cooling: Reverse cycle air conditioners and ducted systems to replace older, less efficient gas heating.
- Water Heating: Upgrades to energy-efficient hot water systems, which can save up to $100–$200 annually.
- Lighting: Replacement of traditional lighting with energy-efficient LEDs for reduced power consumption.
- Appliances: Rebates on fridges, washing machines, and other appliances that consume less energy.
- Insulation: Improved home insulation to retain heat during winter and keep cool during summer.
Each of these options can significantly lower household energy use. For instance, switching from gas heating to reverse cycle air conditioning can save up to 60% on energy bills and help meet Victoria’s 2030 emissions reduction targets.
Benefits of Choosing Energy-Efficient Products for Homes
- Save on Energy Bills: Energy-efficient products offer lower operating costs, leading to substantial savings over time.
- Environmentally Friendly: By electrifying heating, cooling, and appliances, homeowners can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Future-Proof Your Home: These upgrades improve home comfort, reduce reliance on gas, and increase property value.
VEU Accredited Providers for Businesses
The VEU program also offers incentives tailored to Victorian businesses, from small operations to larger facilities. Many commercial properties see significant savings by switching to energy-efficient solutions that cut operational costs and contribute to a more sustainable business model.
How to Access Discounts for Your Business
Similar to residential upgrades, businesses can access VEU incentives through two pathways:
- Accredited Provider Installation
- Select an Eligible Product or System: Choose from a range of energy-efficient upgrades pre-approved by the Essential Services Commission.
- Immediate Discount: Accredited providers apply the rebate directly, so you pay less upfront.
- Provider-Handled Installation: The provider ensures proper installation, reducing the administrative burden.
- Hire a Partnered Installer
- Choose an Accredited Product: Select an eligible energy-efficient system or appliance.
- Get a Partnered Installer: Hire a qualified tradesperson who works with an accredited provider.
- Discount Processed by Installer: The installer applies the discount, completes the installation, and submits necessary forms.
Energy-Efficient Upgrades for Businesses
Businesses can choose from a wide range of VEU-approved upgrades designed to lower energy consumption and operating expenses:
- Heating, Cooling, and Ventilation: Reverse cycle air conditioning, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and modern ventilation solutions.
- Refrigeration: Commercial-grade refrigeration systems that use less energy.
- Lighting: LED lighting for offices, warehouses, and retail spaces, reducing lighting costs by up to 80%.
- Custom Upgrades: Larger businesses can explore custom upgrades to improve efficiency, from equipment automation to process heating.
Why Invest in Energy Efficiency for Your Business?
- Cost Savings: Small businesses can save up to $500 per year, while larger businesses may save as much as $74,000 annually on energy bills.
- Sustainability Goals: Energy-efficient upgrades help businesses align with Victoria’s emissions targets, contributing to a cleaner future.
- Increased Productivity: Better lighting, improved heating and cooling, and efficient refrigeration enhance the workplace environment and boost productivity.
VEU Eligibility for Businesses
Most Victorian businesses qualify for VEU discounts, though large facilities may be exempt unless they opt in. To check eligibility, consult the Essential Services Commission’s Register of Scheduled Activity Premises to confirm your facility’s status.
What to Look For When Choosing a VEU Accredited Provider
Finding the right VEU accredited provider is essential to getting the most out of the program. Here are some factors to consider:
- Experience with VEU Products: Look for providers with a track record of successful installations and positive customer feedback.
- Transparent Discounting: The provider should clearly outline the discount applied, so you understand your savings upfront.
- Compliance and Certification: Choose providers certified by the Essential Services Commission to ensure that installations meet the program’s standards.
- Full-Service Options: For convenience, many homeowners and businesses prefer providers who handle everything, from initial consultation to final installation.
- Customer Support: Choose a provider who can answer questions about your eligibility, rebate amount, and the overall process.
Making the Most of VEU Rebates with an Accredited Provider
The VEU program offers an invaluable opportunity for Victorian residents and businesses to reduce energy consumption, cut costs, and support the state’s environmental goals. By partnering with an accredited provider like Esena Energy, you can access upfront discounts on energy-efficient products and appliances, making it easier than ever to upgrade your home or business.
Whether you’re a homeowner seeking affordable heating and cooling solutions or a business looking to modernise and cut expenses, the VEU program’s incentives are within reach. Choose a trusted, experienced VEU accredited provider to guide you through the process and enjoy the long-term benefits of an energy-efficient upgrade.
