The City of Sydney is set to implement new planning regulations mandating that all newly constructed residential buildings must be entirely electric by January 1, 2027. These rules will extend to large commercial properties and hotels in the local area as well.
This initiative aims to alleviate cost-of-living challenges while promoting healthier living spaces that are less dependent on gas, aligning with the NSW Sustainability State Environmental Planning Policy. Residents can expect to see changes as soon as next year, with the regulations beginning on January 1, when new residential developments will need to have electric indoor appliances, including cooktops, ovens, and heating systems. Subsequently, requirements for electric outdoor appliances will follow. It is estimated that each all-electric household could save approximately $626 annually on energy expenses.
Starting January 1, 2028, larger commercial buildings and hotels will also need to adhere to these all-electric mandates. Lord Mayor Clover Moore has expressed her support for these electrification measures, highlighting their potential to enhance energy efficiency while reducing costly retrofitting. She noted that reliance on fossil fuel gas is detrimental to the environment, finances, and public health, stating that transitioning to all-electric buildings is a sensible progression.
Households would benefit not only from reduced energy costs but also from increased energy security, avoiding potential gas shortages and rising prices in the future. It’s important to note that the new regulations will not affect existing buildings or any food and beverage establishments within mixed-use developments.