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Victorian government announces support for Lakes Entrance and Orbost households impacted by Solstice Energy Gas closures

The Victorian government will support Lakes Entrance and Orbost households impacted by Solstice Energy's gas network closures, offering appliance modifications, electrification subsidies, rebates, and planning tools.

By news@gippsland - 25th August 2025 - Back to News

On Friday, the Victorian government announced extra support for households and businesses affected by Solstice Energy's (formerly Tas Gas) decision to close its Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) networks in ten Victorian towns, including Lakes Entrance and Orbost, by the end of 2026. The company said the networks are no longer viable due to rising costs.

Solstice customers relying on trucked compressed natural gas face network closures, with Solar Victoria, VEU, and SEC providing support for transitioning to affordable, cleaner energy alternatives

Supporting energy transition

These changes will impact approximately 122 homes and three commercial customers in Lakes Entrance and 22 homes and three commercial customers in Orbost. Changes to gas supply will commence from February 2026 and will occur over a 12- to 18-month period.

Council Chief Executive Officer Fiona Weigall said it is important that the community is aware of the support available and knows council is here to help. "These changes will affect a number of households and businesses in our region, and we understand that this can be concerning for those impacted. While the decision to close the gas networks is a matter for the state government, the council is committed to helping our community navigate this transition."

We want to make sure the community has access to clear information about the support available, whether that's assistance with appliance modifications, subsidies for switching to electric appliances, or accessing state government rebate programs. We'll continue to advocate for active consultation and ensure that residents and businesses have the guidance they need to make informed decisions about their energy options," Ms Weigall said.

Energy transition support

Impacted customers can access assistance including:

• Appliance modifications funded by Solstice Energy
• Subsidies to switch to electric appliances if households or businesses choose to electrify
• State government rebates and discounts through the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) and Solar Homes programs
• SEC Electric Home Planner tool, offering a personalised plan for going electric, including indicative costs, rebates, and potential savings

Council encourages all affected households and businesses to seek assistance early and explore the options available to them. Council will continue to provide updates and support for impacted households and businesses as the transition progresses.

For more information on the hot water rebates visit Solar Victoria website or for information on going electric contact the SEC on 1300 305 700. For information on support provided by Solstice, call 1800 750 750 or email nextsteps@solsticeenergy.com.au.

Pictures from East Gippsland Shire Council Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com