A gas industry lobby group has accused the Victorian government of driving up energy costs by pushing ahead with a ban on gas in new homes, claiming household bills could rise by $100 annually if the policy isn’t reversed. The warning, contained in a document prepared by a lobbyist for the Australian Gas Infrastructure Group and shared with state ministers, lacks supporting evidence, raising concerns about a potential "scare campaign" ahead of the upcoming election. Energy experts have reportedly disputed the industry’s claims, casting doubt on the financial justification for overturning the ban. The debate highlights tensions between environmental policies and concerns over affordability in Victoria’s energy sector.
Exclusive: Australian Gas Infrastructure Group lobbying campaign warns energy bills could increase by $100 unless ban is reversed, despite experts disagreeingGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe gas industry has been accused of unleashing a “scare campaign” before the Victorian election as it pressures the state government to reverse a ban on gas in new homes.A paper prepared by a lobbyist for the Australian Gas Infrastructure Group (AGIG) and shared with ministers has warned annual household gas bills could increase by $100 unless the ban is overturned, without providing evidence to support that claim. Continue reading...