Released 27/07/2023
The ACT Government has launched a new pilot program to support Canberra hospitality businesses with rebates to transition away from fossil fuel gas to all-electric, safe cooking.
Minister for Water, Energy, and Emissions Reduction Shane Rattenbury said the Commercial Kitchen Trial will support hospitality businesses to transition their commercial kitchen from gas to electric.
“The cost of gas is continuing to rise across the nation, and this will become an increasing burden on the hospitality sector, where many commercial kitchens are reliant on gas for cooking and hot water,” Minister Rattenbury said.
“Fossil gas burning accounts for around 22% of the ACT’s greenhouse gas emissions, which is why the ACT Government has announced the plan to electrify our city and phase out fossil gas use.”
“The Commercial Kitchen Trial will help cafes and restaurants with the cost barriers by providing eligible businesses with a rebate up to 50% of the total cost of the transition. Businesses will also receive free expert technical advice in addition to financial assistance.
“We understand that the transition from gas to electric will be a challenge for the hospitality sector, and ACT Government is committed to supporting this important business sector to transition.
“The trial will also help the government to better understand the unique challenges commercial kitchens experience when transitioning from gas to all electric.
“As we work to electrify our city, we want to support community and business leadership to showcase the possibilities of a future free of fossil-fuel gas. Working with the community and industry will help us to understand what we need to focus on over the coming years to ensure every home and business in Canberra is ready for a gas free future.
“The ACT is committed to phasing out fossil fuel gas by 2045. An all-electric Canberra will allow us to power our city, homes, businesses, and transport with 100% renewable electricity for a cleaner, more affordable and healthier future,” said Minister Rattenbury.
Businesses can apply to be part of the trial by submitting an expression of interest. More information is available at: www.climatechoices.act.gov.au.
- Statement ends -
Shane Rattenbury, MLA | Media Releases