Shiv's story: How going all electric paid off

Challenges behind the choice

Shiv’s role in AGL’s innovation function meant he lived and breathed decarbonisation and electrification. So, he knew the benefits his family could reap from making the switch.

“Electrification was a foreign concept to others. Our builder put a gas line into our new build that goes nowhere and wanted to leave it ‘in case we need gas in the future’.

To get their occupancy permit, Shiv and his wife had to install a resistive electric system rather than their preferred heat pump water system. The Victorian government updated its energy efficiency standards for new homes in 2022, removing barriers to installing efficient electric hot water systems.

The timing didn’t work in their favour, but the Nandwanis have made the most of their resistive water heater and plan to switch to a heat pump when they need to replace it. 

One size doesn’t fit all

With a larger-than-average solar system (most are around 6.6kW), Shiv saw a level 2 EV charger as a smart way to maximise his solar output.  

“Consider how much you drive, whether you have solar and whether the Level 1 charger that usually comes with your vehicle is enough for your needs.” That thinking also shapes how his family charges their EVs. “I manage the charging of our two electric vehicles using a mix of smart software-based solutions and traditional time-based scheduling. This means I use apps or systems that automatically optimise charging based on electricity rates and grid demand, alongside manually setting charging times during off-peak hours. The goal is to keep both vehicles charged in the most cost-efficient way possible.”

By shifting charging to the more cost-effective times of day, the family keeps their cars powered up and their energy costs down. Having said this, his recommendation for people without solar is, “look at the available EV energy plans on the market, like AGL’s Night Saver EV Plan which is a great option for cost effective charging.”

Counting the costs (and the savings)

Shiv invested in electrifying his home knowing the potential future gains. And looking back, he believes building an all-electric home was well worth it.

“It’s exceeded our expectations. We’re very happy with the outcomes, particularly in cost savings. We don’t live differently than anyone would in a traditional gas and electric home, but it costs us substantially less.”

They instantly saved $360 in supply charges every year. And the savings have compounded with time thanks to a 10.14kW solar system and Powerwall 2 battery, Tesla Model Y, Kia EV5 and a Telsa Gen 3 EV Charger, ducted air con and more.  

They’ve also reduced their reliance on energy for heating and cooling with passive design throughout the home. This includes east-facing windows that maximise morning sunlight and minimise heat from the harsh afternoon sun, reducing the need for cooling.

“Based on current electricity rates, we have saved $3,650 in the last 12 months,” says Shiv.

After accessing discounted green finance through the Australian Government’s Household Energy Upgrades Fund, the Nandwanis will expect to save $25,000 over five years. That’s enough to cover the full cost of electrification for some households.

At first, Shiv wasn’t sure whether to buy a solar battery and a ducted heating and cooling system because of the costs, but he sees it as the price for necessary comfort at home. While a battery was a significant investment then, the Government has now announced a Cheaper Home Batteries Program to help make batteries more affordable.