Energy expert and author Tim Forcey is coming to Warrnambool to share details on how choosing electricity over gas can save you money while helping the environment.
His talk at the Warrnambool Library on September 4 at 6.30pm is part of the Green Warrnambool speaker series, a collection of free presentations about environmental topics.
His book, My Efficient Electric Home Handbook, was released in June. It's full of useful advice, but Mr Forcey said there was one thing many people could do today that would make a big difference.
"The number one key message is to heat with your air conditioner," he said.
"That's by far the cheapest way to heat compared to burning gas or burning wood or using electric heaters.
"I've been on a mission to tell people about this for the last nine years - since we worked out at the University of Melbourne that you can heat with an air conditioner for a third of the cost of gas.
"People find that ironic because I migrated to Australia to work in the gas industry, but now I tell people they've got cheaper, cleaner, greener, healthier, safer options.
"It's not just about getting off gas, because some homes will already be off gas.
"In my book and in my presentation there will be tips about making sure that your insulation is where it's meant to be, how you go about draft-proofing, how to maintain good air quality in the home, windows and window coverings. Also people want to talk about solar panels, home batteries and electric cars and how you can run your house off your car."
Warrnambool Mayor Ben Blain said that home electrification was an important topic.
"Technology moves fast, so it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to start, so I'm really excited to see Tim visiting Warrnambool," he said.
"As a community we want to be moving towards a cleaner future, and when you can follow Tim's tips to reduce carbon emissions and save money, it's very compelling.
"With a cost of living crisis it can be tough to come up with the initial outlay of some of the bigger items like reverse cycle air conditioners or electric hot water systems, but there are various government grants available that can help, and the savings over time are there.
"We're only part-way through the Green Warrnambool speaker series, so visit the Warrnambool Library website to learn more about the other speakers, and the wide range of other great events coming up."
Green Warrnambool speaker series events are free to attend, but places are limited. To register visit library.warrnambool.vic.gov.au or call 5559 4990.
