You don’t need own your home to reduce your energy bills and be part of Australia’s clean energy transition.
There are upgrades that you can make as a renter to be more comfortable and have a more energy efficient home too.
Compare energy providers and switch to renewable energy
It is easy to access support to help you shop around for the best energy deal. Sometimes you can go renewable without any increased cost to your current rates (or even save money!).
You can compare GreenPower providers and make sure you’re getting the best deal at the Victorian Government Energy Compare website.
Choose energy efficient appliances
Need a new fridge or washing machine?
Choose the most energy efficient appliances you can afford when it’s time to upgrade. The more stars the better.
Better heating, with cooling!
There are existing minimum rental standards that apply to heating and other parts of your home – see Tenants Victoria for details.
If heating is being replaced, request energy-efficient reverse-cycle air conditioners for lower bills and cooling in summer.
If you can’t get your heating upgraded, heat single rooms at a time and seal gaps as much as you can.
From March 2027, all Victorian rental properties must comply with new energy efficiency standards.
Improve your home’s comfort
Leaky houses are cold in winter and hot in summer.
Sealing window and door gaps and external window shading can make a huge difference and be cost-effective.
Insulation is important and is also part of the minimum energy efficiency standards coming into effect in 2027.
Financial support to install solar and other upgrades
The Victorian Government’s Solar Rebates for Rental Properties program offers eligible rental providers rebates (up to $1,400) and interest-free loans for installing solar panels. This program also includes the option of a co-contribution from renters.
The Merri-bek Home Energy Program can help connect you with reputable suppliers of energy upgrades.
If you are on a low-income, you may be eligible for additional solar or thermal subsidies through the Merri-bek Home Energy Subsidy Program.
More Resources
This video is a 2024 webinar and includes information for renters:
- Energy use in the home
- Thermal performance – keeping heat in or out
- Rental quality standards (some of this information has since been updated)
- What you can do – thermal improvements and appliance usage
- Support available from Councils (Hume, Merri-bek, Moonee Valley, and Yarra)
- Q&A
For updated information on minimum rental standards and changes tenants can make refer to Consumer Affairs Victoria’s website.
This video is a 2026 webinar sharing information for renters including:
- Merri-bek Home Energy Program (formerly Solar Savers)
- Comfort and energy efficiency including low-cost upgrade suggestions
- How current and new rental standards apply to a range of building features and appliances
- Further information and resources
The slide deck can be downloaded.
