Home energy savings for Central Goldfields
Published on 10 September 2025
The Home Energy Empowerment Program is a regional collaboration to help our community reduce their energy consumption, improve home comfort and save on energy bills. For those looking for energy solutions, a Sustainable House Day will be held on Sunday 21 September from 11am to 2pm, followed by an EnergyWise question and answer session at Maryborough Library on Wednesday 8 October from 5.30 to 6.30pm.
Hosted by the Goldfields Sustainability Group, two homes will be opened – one newly built to take advantage of sustainable energy, while the other is an older building which has been retrofitted for greater efficiency and comfort.
Deputy Mayor Councillor Ben Green said the success of the Home Energy Improvement Program was in its practical advice every household can benefit from.
“Our older houses simply weren’t built for the appliances and climate conditions we’re experiencing today. What our community is learning from this Program is that something as simple as draught-proofing your home or adding more insulation can save you thousands of dollars in energy costs.”
“Many of the new technologies like heat pumps, batteries and induction stoves can deliver big savings, and having experienced locals who have been through the upgrade process is an enormous advantage.”
“These are really worthwhile events for those seeking to improve the sustainability and comfort of their home, through both winter and summer.”
A collaborative project between Central Goldfields, the City of Greater Bendigo, Mount Alexander, Macedon Ranges and Pyrenees councils, the Program includes 16 events providing practical skills and advice for homeowners and renters.
Goldfields Sustainability Group and Mill House Neighbourhood House are local partners supporting the Central Goldfields events.
The Program has been hugely successful, with over 90 attendees at in-person sessions held across our Shire since May and 750+ registrations for lunch and learn webinars attended across the Central Victorian region, and it’s not too late to join in.
At the EnergyWise Q&A session at Maryborough Library on 8 October, Lucinda Flynn from Going Green Solutions will answer your energy efficiency questions from draught-proofing and insulation, heating and cooling systems, solar and batteries to available financial support.
Lucinda said the Program is not just for those who own their own home.
“Improving the energy efficiency of your home does not have to cost you a fortune, and many low-cost measures can save those who rent just as much.”
“Simple things like window coverings or only heating the rooms you are using really add up over a few months of energy billing cycles.”
“It’s a big help to learn what opportunities and challenges exist locally from residents who have recently undertaken energy efficiency measures in their homes.”
For registration links and further information about the Program, visit: www.centralgoldfields.vic.gov.au/EmPower
You can also register by calling Council Customer Service on 54 610 610.
Video recordings of the ‘lunch and learn’ webinar series, plus many other helpful resources can be found at: www.cgca.org.au/resources