Cottonwood 2025

Cottonwood

After receiving a $4,000 gas bill one winter in Canberra, we knew something had to change. That shock led us to electrify our previous home, saving $10,000 in the first year. When we moved to our 20-year-old, four-bedroom house on the Sunshine Coast, going all-electric was a no-brainer. While our journey didn’t start with sustainability in mind, the financial and environmental benefits quickly became clear.

Our home now runs entirely on renewable energy. We replaced all gas appliances—including the stove, hot water system, and even the BBQ—with electric alternatives. We installed an 18kWp solar system with 54 panels and added a Tesla Powerwall battery, allowing us to store excess energy and reduce reliance on the grid. We also purchased an electric car with a home EV charger, making our transportation fully sustainable.

The total set-up cost about $60,000, but we’re now saving around $15,000 annually, expecting a full payback in just four years. Most months, our electricity bills are in credit, thanks to the ability to export surplus energy back to the grid during peak pricing.

Beyond the savings, our home is healthier and more future-proof. Gas-free living has improved indoor air quality, and the abundant solar energy means we’re insulated from rising energy costs. By switching to an all-electric home powered by renewable energy, we’ve significantly reduced our carbon footprint while enhancing our quality of life.

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