General News
12 February, 2026
Gas information sessions now rescheduled
THE Victorian Government has rescheduled two more information sessions to run in Terang to support households and businesses affected by Solstice Energy’s natural gas network closure this year.
The drop-in sessions are designed to help the community understand their options – whether it’s upgrading to energy efficient electric appliances or converting to bottled gas (LPG).
Solstice customers will learn how to access Victorian Government discounts and rebates to install energy-efficient electric appliances, and about other supports available.
The drop-in sessions make up for the session postponed in late January due to the extreme heat.
The rescheduled sessions will be held at the Civic Hall, 131 High Street on Tuesday, February 17 from 1pm to 5.30pm and Wednesday, February 18 from 8am to 12noon.
“We understand Solstice Energy’s decision to close their compressed natural gas network this year has created uncertainty for local households and businesses,” a Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) spokesperson said.
“Our priority is to support people to make a smooth and affordable transition, and to act fast – within the important timelines Solstice Energy has shared with its customers in each town.
“Our team will be around to help residents understand their options and access the right discounts or rebates to reduce costs.”
DEECA’S team can also advise customers wanting to convert to LPG.
Solstice Energy will run a separate information session, following DEECA’s, on Wednesday, February 18 at the same venue.
Impacted households and businesses in Terang should be assessing their options now to confirm their decision with Solstice Energy by March 15.
Solstice has let its customers know what they need to do by when and will also soon run information sessions.
Customers switching to electric from gas can save hundreds of dollars through the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, which offers discounts on efficient electric products such as reverse-cycle heating and cooling systems, induction cooktops and heat pump hot water systems.
For example, with a VEU discount and Solar Homes program rebate, upfront costs can be reduced by up to $2030 for an eligible locally made hot water system, or up to $1630 for other eligible systems.
Switching from gas to an efficient electric hot water system can save households around $400 a year on energy bills.
Upfront discounts of up to $1610 are also available to replace a gas heater, and up to $5530 to replace a gas ducted heating system.
These upgrades can help households save between $460 and $1140 a year on running costs.
For all DEECA information session details, visit www.energy.vic.gov.au/solsticesupport.