Thousands upgraded under new energy efficient lighting rules

Thousands of Victorian households and small businesses have had new energy efficient LED lighting installed following changes to the state’s free energy upgrades program in January.

The Essential Services Commission’s Jeff Cefai says the new regulations came into effect this year, allowing energy efficient LED lamps to be used to replace compact fluorescent lamps.

“There have been around 30,000 installations for just this new activity since the beginning of the year with only a few complaints stemming from questionable door-to-door sales tactics,” he said.

Mr Cefai says while the new activity has been a success, there have been two complaints about a promotional flyer and aggressive door-to-door sales tactics.

“The flyer tells householders that merely taking it inside constitutes an ‘agreement to make an appointment’ and one resident says they were pressured to hand over their details.

“We have followed up with those responsible and expect this activity to stop, or we will consider taking further action,” he said.

Mr Cefai says the majority of providers under the scheme are doing the right thing.

“There are 31 companies who are accredited to undertake this activity and are listed on our website.

“If any householder or business wants to check that the person at the door is genuine, they should check out the link on our website,” he said.