Winter has arrived and Victorians are again being urged to save energy during the colder months through the Brumby Labor Government’s iconic “Black Balloons” energy savings campaign.
“Winter is the most energy intensive season for Victorian households, so it’s important everyone cuts their energy use wherever and whenever possible,” the Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney said.
“The well-known Black Balloons campaign returns this week and is yet another way the Brumby Government is taking action to help working families save energy, which reduces their bills, and importantly reduce their impact on climate change.”
Black Balloons advertisements will be back on television, radio and in newspapers from this week to remind Victorians that every time they turn on the heater and other appliances they are producing greenhouse gases, or black balloons, which add to climate change.
Each black balloon represents 50 grams of greenhouse gases and the average Victorian home produces around 240,000 balloons of greenhouse gas a year.
“Reducing the amount of energy you use this winter can save you money without compromising warmth and comfort,” Ms Tierney said.
“If you currently set your heater thermostat at 22 degrees celsius, you can save up to 17,800 balloons and $150 off your energy bills a year by turning it down just two degrees.”
The simple action of turning off appliances televisions and mobile phone chargers at the switch is a good habit to get into because it can save up to 7700 balloons and $50 a year, he said.
Householders can also cut energy use this winter by sealing up draughts and gaps around external doors, windows and disused fireplaces, saving save up to 4900 balloons a year.
For more ways to save energy visit www.SaveEnergy.vic.gov.au