Have your say: clean energy for renters in apartments

Closing: 20 February 2026

Environment Victoria want to hear from renters in apartments or units to expand access to the benefits of energy efficient, all-electric, clean energy powered homes. Complete their survey.

Renting an apartment shouldn’t lock you into high energy bills.

If you rent an apartment or unit, chances are you’ve felt it: high energy bills, outdated heating, cooking and other appliances, and building or landlord rules that make it impossible to switch to cheaper, cleaner energy. 

Right now, most clean energy programs are designed for people in standalone houses, and are most attractive to owner/occupiers. That leaves many apartment renters paying more for gas, missing out on solar savings, or unable to make even small changes that could lower bills and improve comfort. 

The Victorian Parliament is running an inquiry into how to make renewable and affordable energy work better for people living in apartments – and they are especially keen to hear from renters. 

Why your experience matters 

Your experience can help decision-makers understand the real barriers renters face, including: 

•  being unable to avoid gas or access electric alternatives 

•  missing out on shared solar or building upgrades 

•  rules that prevent simple, low-cost actions like air-drying clothes, charging an e-bike, or using plug-in electric appliances 

When these barriers are removed, renters are more likely to benefit – through lower bills, healthier homes, and fairer access to clean energy, even when upgrades happen at the building level. 

What we’re asking 

 We’re inviting renters of units and apartments to complete a short survey about: 

• what’s stopped you from lowering your energy costs 

• where building rules or landlord decisions have made things harder 

• what a fair, energy-efficient apartment would look like for you 

Your responses will be combined (anonymously) and included in Environment Victoria’s formal submission to the inquiry, helping shape reforms that work for renters now and in the future. 

Have your say below –  it only takes a few minutes.