Renter pathway

Electrification wins you can act on as a renter

You can't control what your landlord installs — but there are meaningful wins you can make without touching the building, and rights you may not know you have.

Portable wins

Induction cooktop (portable)

High impact
Cost: $80–$250Payback: 6–12 months vs gas

Plug into any 10A outlet. No installation. Outperforms gas for everyday cooking.

Reverse-cycle portable air conditioner

Medium impact
Cost: $400–$900Payback: 2–4 years

Vents through a window. Efficient heating and cooling without wall installation.

Heat pump clothes dryer

Medium impact
Cost: $700–$1,200Payback: 3–5 years vs resistive

Uses ~60% less energy than standard dryers. Plug-in, no installation.

Solar charging (balcony solar)

Low–medium impact
Cost: $300–$800Payback: Varies

Plug-in balcony panels. Not legal in all states — check strata rules.

Your state minimum standards

Standards vary significantly by state. What applies to you:

VIC

  • ✓Landlords must disclose energy efficiency rating before lease signing
  • ✓Rental minimum standards include draught-proofing and ceiling insulation
  • ✓Renters Energy Efficiency Scheme — landlord incentives for upgrades

Source: Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (Vic), Rental minimum standards 2021

NSW

  • ✓Landlords must ensure properties are fit for habitation (includes functioning heating)
  • ✓NCAT can order repairs including energy-related fixes
  • ✓No mandatory energy rating disclosure as of 2025 (reform pending)

Source: Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW)

ACT

  • ✓Mandatory energy efficiency disclosure for all rentals (EER rating)
  • ✓Landlords must meet minimum energy efficiency standards
  • ✓Tenants can request energy audits

Source: Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (ACT), Energy Efficiency Rating Framework

QLD

  • ✓Landlords must provide and maintain ceiling fans and adequate ventilation
  • ✓Smoke alarms must be interconnected and photoelectric
  • ✓No mandatory EER disclosure as of 2025

Source: Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (Qld)

Know your rights

You can ask your landlord to install efficient appliances

In VIC and ACT, landlords have obligations around energy efficiency. In all states, you can write a formal request — especially if an appliance is failing. Many landlords comply once they understand there are incentives and subsidies available to them.

Read the full renter rights guide →
Compare energy plans for your situation →