- Transition
Program timeline and zones for year one of the Albany Gas Transition released
- $2000
financial support announced for homes choosing a switch to electrification
- Albany
Customer Support Hub, phone helpline and online information portal now live
- Part
of the Cook Labor Government's $31.8 million Albany Gas Transition funding
commitment
The Cook Labor Government is supporting Albany locals
impacted by the decommissioning of ATCO's Albany Gas Distribution System, with
funding assistance and a new customer support hub in the Albany CBD now open.
Announced today, locals choosing a switch to electrification
can access payments of up to $2000, as the transition of Albany's gas network
gets underway.
The funds will support residents to purchase new electric
appliances, including induction cooktops and electric heat pumps.
Alternatively, homeowners and small businesses switching to
bottled gas will have these costs covered. Additional supports for more complex
cases will be provided on a case-by-case basis.
In-person assistance is now available at the Albany Plaza
shopping centre, where a temporary Customer Support Hub is now open. The Hub
will move to a permanent location in the heart of Albany in January 2027.
An online customer information portal has also been
launched, along with a new dedicated phone helpline for impacted customers.
In addition, customers can now search their address in
ATCO's interactive map tool gas.atco.com/Albany
to see when their switchover is scheduled.
The Cook Labor Government has committed
$31.8 million for the transition, including $22.8 million to help homes and
small gas-use businesses transition, which includes ATCO's voluntary
contribution of $5.5 million, and $9 million for social housing.
Larger gas-use businesses, using more
than 30 gigajoules of gas per annum, will receive their business energy audit
results followed by a tailored funding package.
All conversion works must be carried out by certified trades
who are registered with the Transition Program, and all funding assistance will
be paid directly to participating trades.
Trades can now register their interest to participate in the
transition by visiting the Transition Program website wa.gov.au/government/document-collections/albany-gas-transition-information-trades
Customers can access information online at
wa.gov.au/albanygastransition, including details on the transition process,
available funding support and next steps.
Further support is available through the helpline on 08 9200
6888. Email queries can be directed to albanygastransition@deed.wa.gov.au.
Comments
attributed to Energy and Decarbonisation Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
"The Cook Labor Government is doing what's right by Albany
locals, with a $31.8 million support package for those impacted by ATCO's
decision to decommission the gas network.
"Our $2000 electrification payment will
support families to go electric, helping to offset the costs of new appliances
and enabling them to save hundreds of dollars off their bills in the long run.
"Whether it's on the ground, online or over the phone, we
are committed to helping customers understand the transition and make the best
choice for their energy needs.
"And, we want Albany businesses to benefit, which is why we
are seeking local tradies to get involved and play a part in Albany's energy
future."
Comments attributed to Great Southern Minister Reece Whitby:
"The Albany gas
transition is about making sure local households and businesses have the
support they need as the network is decommissioned.
"Albany households and
businesses will have different needs, which is why we're offering a range of
options, including support for those choosing bottled gas and tailored
assistance for more complex cases.
"We're also making sure
local trades have an opportunity to be involved, keeping work and economic
benefits in the Great Southern as Albany transitions to a new energy future."
Comments attributed to Samantha
Rowe MLC:
"The Cook Labor Government is committed to supporting Albany residents
throughout this transition.
"I encourage all residents to visit the Customer Support Hub, check out
the website or get in touch via the helpline to ensure they have the most up to
date information and support.
"We know that this change will impact a lot of people, but we are
committed to helping Albany locals through it."
Comments attributed to
Albany mayor Greg Stocks:
"The City welcomes this
announcement by the State Government, which provides our community with a clear
pathway forward as it transitions away from reticulated gas.
"The online portal,
interactive mapping system and dedicated helpline will make it easier for
residents and businesses to access information and support, while the Customer
Support Hub in the town centre will ensure those who prefer face-to-face
assistance can receive personalised guidance throughout the process.
"Together, these measures
will help to ensure the transition is accessible, well-supported and responsive
to the needs of our community."
Comments attributed to ATCO
Australia CEO John Ivulich:
"ATCO is supporting the
Albany Gas Transition with a substantial, voluntary contribution of $5.5
million to the Albany Gas Transition to support customers converting to bottled
gas.
"We know the community
wants certainty, and we have established an interactive map, so Albany
residents can understand when their property will be decommissioned and can
plan for it.
"In the meantime, we will
continue to provide safe and reliable energy for households and businesses
until the last connection is decommissioned."
