A leading Australian energy retailer urges its tens of thousands of residential gas customers to go electric, in a deal that offers to wipe the network disconnection cost.

Smart meters that track energy use in real time are seen as crucial technology for monitoring energy efficiency of households and businesses.

Inspections and audits of newly installed heat pump hot water systems are expected to ramp up across Victoria to ensure standards are being met.

As renewables drive down wholesale electricity prices, questions are raised over why consumers will get only marginal bill relief in the coming year.

Pressure mounts on the Government to underwrite rooftop solar, home batteries, and electrification amid growing concerns a growing energy divide is being weaponised to delay climate action.

Draft rules governing smart meter uptake will be published within weeks following a decision to fast-track the process.

With the state ban on new gas connections in homes and businesses, Victorians are snapping up the $1,000 rebate for installing a heat pump hot water system in record numbers.

How the developer ratings scheme is designed will be key to its success and whether communities will trust and embrace it.