Paul and Bron’s power moves
Believe it or not, Paul and Bron’s journey to an all-electric lifestyle started in Paris where a conversation with a cab driver planted the seed in their minds that it was time to give up diesel.
Their foray into electric vehicles marked the beginning of a journey that led to the full electrification of their home.
Now, they are saving money on energy and enjoying a cleaner, greener home.
The challenge
“Like a lot of houses in Tuggeranong, ours had gas and we didn’t think too much about it,” said Paul.
“Gas was cheaper than electricity back then. And electricity came from coal-fired power plants, so gas was considered better for the environment too.
“We were visiting Paris, and our cab driver started talking about how bad diesel is for health and the environment.
“Since then information about the effects of fossil fuels on health and climate change has become more widespread. I’m certain – besides the cost, gas is just not good.
The action
“The first thing we did was getting rid of our old diesel car. We both realised that, now that our son was more independent, we didn’t really need a four-wheel drive anymore.
“We got a great deal on a Nissan Leaf. We saved even more money by choosing the 40kw option. It has 100km less range that the larger capacity model, but it was also $10K cheaper and suited our needs.
“Next, we decided to get rid of gas in our home. We replaced our gas cooktop with induction, and then we replaced the old hot water cylinder with a heat pump.
“Finally, with all our appliances and the car running on electricity, it made sense to invest in solar panels. We had a rooftop solar system installed so that we could charge our car and reduce our electricity bill.
The benefit
“The investment in solar panels really paid off. We’ve got a 13 kW solar system and, by carefully managing when and how we use electricity, we’re generating more than we’re using. The energy company had to pay me on my last energy bill. That was a pleasant change!
“I’ve done the sums, and I’d say we will break even in about four years, and after that it’ll be all savings.
“We love the EV. It’s great for getting around town – it handles nicely and it’s quiet and comfortable. The ACT Government gives you free rego for the first two years too, which was an added benefit. We’ll never buy a petrol car again.
“The induction cooktop is really quick – I’d say it takes less than half the time than the gas to boil a pot of water. We feel safer with the induction stove top too – you’re not going to burn yourself or burn the house down!
“If people just try induction, they’ll love it and they’ll save themselves a fortune. Our cooktop was about $900, so it’s definitely an affordable option.
“People out there should really sit down and think about going all electric. Don’t think about the money – think about the environment, although you will save money. Just do it!”
Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.