Victorian households will soon be able to get hands-on help slashing their power bills, thanks to a new initiative from the State Electricity Commission (SEC), backed by Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister Lily D’Ambrosio.
The planned SEC “one-stop-shop” aims to remove the confusion around choosing energy-efficient appliances, navigating rebates, and finding trustworthy installers. The service will offer free tailored advice to help families reduce costs by switching to electric appliances and installing solar systems.
Speaking at the announcement, Premier Allan said: “The SEC is back – and it’s helping families slash their energy bills.” She added: “Families want help with the cost of living, and I’m on their side. So is the SEC.”
The new service, which will be available both online and over the phone, promises to simplify a process that many households find overwhelming. It will help users weigh up the upfront costs, projected savings, available rebates and discounts, and connect them to SEC-verified suppliers and installers who meet stringent quality and licensing requirements.
For those wanting a more personalised assessment, the program offers a free in-home quote through approved installers, giving households detailed insights into how much they can save.
According to modelling cited by the government, going fully electric could save a household around $1,400 a year. Adding solar panels pushes that figure above $2,700 in annual savings. But for many, the question has been where to start and who to trust—something the SEC service hopes to answer.
Minister for the State Electricity Commission Lily D’Ambrosio highlighted both the economic and employment impact of the initiative. “We know how much households can save when they switch to electric. That’s why the SEC is building a service that will make sure Victorian families can get trusted expert advice to help them make the switch,” she said.
D’Ambrosio also noted that as the program rolls out, it’s expected to support over 1,000 trades jobs across the state. The Morwell-based customer service team will be expanded, while the SEC will soon call for expressions of interest from businesses that install heat pump hot water systems, solar panels, and heating and cooling systems.
Installers who sign up will need to meet criteria around certification, product quality, experience, and warranty conditions to ensure customers receive reliable service and equipment that lasts.
The service will officially launch in 2026, with a strong focus on supporting households that are planning upgrades or facing urgent replacements of broken appliances. By providing clear, tailored advice and connecting people to qualified trades, the SEC hopes to demystify the process and boost uptake of efficient electric systems.
It comes at a time when cost of living pressures remain high, and many households are seeking ways to bring expenses down without cutting corners. The government says the service will reach more than 100,000 homes over the next 15 years, and is part of its broader energy reform agenda under the revived SEC.
To explore the service or register interest as an installer, visit powerup.secvictoria.com.au.
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