Local conversations that drive home electrification and energy efficiency

When it comes to upgrading your home to be more energy efficient or going all-electric, it turns out one of the most powerful motivators isn’t advertising, policy, or even rebates. It’s a conversation with someone we trust. But with over 11 million homes in Australia needing some kind of energy upgrade, how do we spark millions of those personal conversations? One answer is to go local. Merri-bek City Council in Melbourne has become a leader in grassroots energy transition, taking a hands-on, human-centred approach to helping residents electrify their homes and cut emissions. They’re a great example of what’s possible when local government meets the community where they’re at, literally. Donna Luckman, Merri-bek Council’s Zero Carbon Campaigns Lead and winner of the Energy Efficiency Council’s Energy Management Champion Award, outlines how the council supports residents with practical, locally focused programs. And Sarah Hussein, a community outreach officer embedded in Merri-bek’s culturally diverse neighbourhoods, explains how she’s helps households navigate the energy transition, from understanding options to taking action.