Meet Mick. New energy skills campaign now live!

It’s official, Mick is our newest energy sector influencer. And, he’s using his profile for a very important mission.

Right now, 5 million Australian households use natural gas. But these homes must be decarbonised if Australia is to meet its legislated commitment to net zero by 2050.

That’s why state and national governments are investing billions to support the transition away from fossil fuels. Increasingly, they are also setting end dates for gas use.

While gas prices surge and remain volatile, renewable energy costs are rapidly reducing.

So, more and more homeowners are making the switch to rooftop solar, battery systems, and low emission heating and cooling.

Many households are buying energy efficient appliances like induction stovetops and electric vehicles – not only to reduce costs, but because technology has significantly improved and become much cheaper in recent years.

Plus, there are many different government rebates offering savings for households, including Solar Victoria’s rebates and loans, and the new Cheaper Home Batteries Program is set to boost the demand for electrification.

However, the electrification revolution can’t happen without licensed electricians with specialised energy efficiency training. Electrification at this scale, needs a workforce that is skilled, knowledgeable, ethical, and prepared.

With multi-stage and multi-year investments – from assessment of requirements, to sourcing technology and safe installation – Australian households and businesses need advice and support to make the transition.

That’s why the Victorian Government – in partnership with ETU, Centre for U, Future Energy Skills and Holmesglen TAFE – has invested in training electricians as part of its strategy to meet the demand for safe, skilled tradespeople.

Ellis Jones developed a multichannel consumer and trades communication strategy and an associated  advertising campaign to reach Victorian households.

Central to the campaign is Mick, an eager homeowner electrifying his home – and saving his cat along the way.

Over 100,000 Victorians watched the energy skills campaign video in the first three weeks of the campaign. It’s a hit.

Watch it, and see why. Be like Mick.