Push for gas cooktops and heaters to be banned so Australia can meet its climate change targets
Gas cooktops and heaters could be banned 'well before 2050' so Australia can meet its net zero targets under a proposal by a prominent think tank. The Grattan Institute has suggested state and territory governments ban new natural gas connections to homes, shops and small businesses - which would particularly inconvenience restaurants. The report by Tony Wood, Alison Reeve, Esther Suckling said Australia would fail to meet its net zero by 2050 carbon emissions target unless gas appliances were replaced with electric ones powered by renewable energy. 'Governments need to step in and generate greater momentum towards an all-electric residential sector,' their report said. 'The first step is to set a gas phase out date and to ban new gas connections to homes.' It comes as a prominent Teal independent MP called for the country to 'get off the gas'. Allegra Spender, the MP representing the ultra-wealthy electorate of Wentworth in Sydney's eastern suburbs, endorsed the Grattan Institute report, but stopped short of calling for gas appliances or cooktops to be banned soon. 'Australia needs to get off gas. All-electric homes are cheaper to run, better for our health, and reduce emissions. But we wont get there by wishful thinking. The Federal govt needs to show a lot more courage & ambition. Important blueprint for reform by @GrattanInst,' she tweeted. The Grattan Institute is also called for The think tank - partially funded by the federal and Victorian governments - recommended taxpayers fund upgrades to social, community, and Indigenous housing, and provide low-interest loans or similar financing agreements for homeowners, and tax incentives for landlords. It also called on state governments to stipulate a ban on gas appliances in rental homes, and make public housing energy all-electric. 'Set minimum rental standards that include ceiling insulation and all-electric appliances,' it said.