Published

2 years ago

March 25, 2024

Alice Rush

Generation Z: Growing Up in a Digital Age

Generation Z, often shortened to Gen Z, is the demographic cohort following Millennials and preceding Generation Alpha.

There’s no single, universally agreed-upon birth year range, but most researchers and media outlets place it somewhere between the mid-to-late 1990s and the early 2010s. This means Gen Z individuals are currently between the ages of roughly 12 and 27 years old (as of February 2024).

Here are some key characteristics associated with Gen Z:

Digital Natives: Unlike previous generations, Gen Z has grown up with constant access to the internet and technology. They are highly comfortable with digital communication and social media platforms, and they use technology for a wide range of activities, from education and entertainment to shopping and activism.
Diverse and Inclusive: Gen Z is the most racially and ethnically diverse generation in history. They value inclusivity and social justice, and they are vocal about their concerns regarding issues like climate change, racial equality, and mental health.
Entrepreneurial and Pragmatic: Gen Z has witnessed economic instability and societal challenges firsthand. This has instilled in them a sense of pragmatism and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. They are often more focused on financial security and career stability than previous generations.
Socially Conscious: Gen Z is highly aware of global issues and social problems. They are passionate about making a positive impact on the world and are actively involved in social movements and advocacy efforts.

It’s important to remember that these are just general trends, and not every individual within Gen Z will conform to these characteristics. However, understanding these broad strokes can help us gain a better understanding of this unique and influential generation.

Here are some additional points to consider:

Gen Z is the first generation to come of age entirely in the 21st century, shaped by events like the September 11th attacks, the rise of social media, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
They are also facing challenges like climate change, economic inequality, and political polarization, which will likely continue to shape their values and experiences.
As Gen Z continues to enter the workforce and become more politically engaged, it will be fascinating to see how they shape the future of society.

Generation Z: Growing Up in a Digital Age

Evolution of Generation Z

Generation Z, the generation born roughly between the mid-to-late 1990s and the early 2010s, is still evolving. While their core characteristics are likely to remain, specific aspects of their identity and experiences will continue to develop as they age and adapt to new challenges and opportunities. Here’s a breakdown of the ongoing evolution of Gen Z:

Technological Landscape:

Evolving Platforms: Gen Z is comfortable navigating diverse online platforms. However, as technology evolves, they will likely readily adopt new trends and adapt their online behavior. The rise of virtual reality and the metaverse may further influence their interactions and experiences.
Increased Scrutiny of Tech: Gen Z is becoming increasingly aware of the potential downsides of technology, such as privacy concerns, misinformation, and mental health impacts. They are likely to become more critical consumers of technology and actively advocate for responsible development and use.

Social and Political Landscape:

Evolving Activism: Gen Z’s activism may shift as they face new social and political challenges. While climate change, racial equality, and mental health remain major concerns, new issues may emerge, prompting them to adapt their approaches and priorities.
Political Engagement: As Gen Z enters voting age and becomes a larger portion of the electorate, their political engagement will be crucial to observe. Whether they maintain their existing political leanings or shift their perspectives will have a significant impact on the political landscape.

Economic Landscape:

Navigating Economic Challenges: Gen Z is entering the workforce amidst economic uncertainties and rising costs of living. This will likely influence their career choices, financial planning, and overall economic outlook. Adapting to these challenges will shape their values and priorities as they move towards greater financial independence.

Identity and Values:

Continued Focus on Inclusivity: Gen Z’s emphasis on diversity and inclusion is likely to remain a core value. However, their understanding of these concepts may further evolve as they encounter new cultural perspectives and grapple with complex societal issues.
Mental Health Awareness: Gen Z’s openness about mental health issues and their focus on well-being may continue to grow. They may advocate for better mental health resources and destigmatize seeking help further.

These are just some potential pathways for Gen Z’s continued evolution. They are a dynamic generation continuously adapting to a rapidly changing world, and their impact on society will undoubtedly continue to unfold in the years to come.

Future of Generation Z

Predicting the future with absolute certainty is impossible, but based on current trends and Gen Z’s defining characteristics, here’s a glimpse into their potential future:

Shape the Workforce:

Entrepreneurial Spirit: Gen Z’s entrepreneurial spirit and comfort with technology may lead them to pursue more independent work and side hustles. This could contribute to the growth of the freelance economy and innovative startups.
Demand for Change: Their focus on social justice and environmental issues may influence their workplace choices. They may prioritize companies with strong ethical practices and a commitment to sustainability.

Impact Society:

Tech-driven Solutions: As digital natives, Gen Z is adept at using technology to solve problems. They may use their skills and knowledge to develop and implement innovative solutions for social and environmental challenges.
Advocate for Change: Their passion for social justice and inclusivity may translate into continued activism and advocacy efforts. They could be instrumental in pushing for positive change on issues like climate change, mental health, and racial equality.

Challenges:

Economic Uncertainties: Gen Z faces economic challenges like rising costs of living and student loan debt. These challenges could impact their career choices, financial well-being, and overall outlook on the future.
Information Overload and Misinformation: Navigating the vast amount of information online and identifying credible sources can be a challenge for any generation. Gen Z may need to develop even stronger critical thinking skills to combat misinformation and filter through the information they encounter.

Unforeseen Events:

It’s important to remember that unforeseen events like technological breakthroughs, major political shifts, or global crises can significantly impact the future of any generation, including Gen Z. How they adapt to these challenges and opportunities will further shape their trajectory.

Gen Z’s future holds immense potential. Their digital fluency, focus on social change, and entrepreneurial spirit position them to be a powerful force in shaping the future of the world. However, navigating economic uncertainties, the information landscape, and potential unforeseen events will be crucial for their success.

https://www.exaputra.com/2024/02/generation-z-growing-up-in-digital-age.html

Related Topics:internet social media technology

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Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

Published

9 hours ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

Most Americans, me included, are puzzled as to how the Trump administration can openly thumb its nose to the findings of our courts. Until recently, behavior like this would have wound you up in jail.

Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

Renewable Energy

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?

Published

15 hours ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

Over the decades, many households across Victoria have resided in older suburban homes equipped with traditional ducted gas heating and aging split-system air conditioners.

However, today the scenario has changed significantly. As energy prices rise, families are feeling the pinch, with annual heating and cooling costs often rising $2,000.

But what are the main issues?

Gas systems that waste energy heating unused rooms, old non-inverter aircons that struggle to maintain even temperatures, and confusion among residents about how rebates, such as the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, actually work.

That’s where trusted providers like Cyanergy Australia step in!

By replacing outdated systems with efficient reverse-cycle multi-split air-conditioning and applying VEU rebates, we help many households to cut energy bills, reduce emissions, and enjoy year-round comfort, all in one smart upgrade.

This air conditioning upgrade can lead to a smoother transition from gas to clean, efficient electric heating and cooling, building a smarter, more sustainable home.

So, let’s break down how the household saved $1,200 with the VEU & Air-Con upgrade, what the program offers, and how you can take advantage of similar rebates to cut costs and enjoy a more energy-efficient home.

In this blog post:

Cyanergy’s Energy Assessment: What We Found!

From the beginning, Cyanergy’s focus was to remove or disconnect the old gas ducted heater, install a modern
reverse-cycle multi-split air conditioning system, claim the VEU discount, and significantly reduce your annual
energy bills.

Simply via the effective air-conditioner upgrade, households can “Save
up to $2,000 a year on your energy bill.

Here are the findings after Cyanergy’s initial home energy visit:

In many Victorian households, the ducted
gas heater is still in use, with high standing and fuel costs.
The older split system had poor efficiency. Some of them were oversized for the room and lacked zoning
options.
The electrical switchboard had spare capacity to support a multi-split installation. For example, one
outdoor unit
with multiple indoor units for different zones.

Home Heating & Cooling Upgrade| The Step-by-Step Path

It’s well-known that the upgrade path usually involves replacing old systems with modern, energy-efficient solutions.

So, from gas to an energy-efficient electric system, let’s have a look at the upgrade story:

Choosing the right system

For the households that want to upgrade under the VEU air
conditioner rebate, we proposed a multi-split reverse-cycle system:

One efficient outdoor inverter unit connected to three indoor units

One in the main living area, one serving the upstairs bedrooms, and

One for the downstairs zone, which had very little heating or cooling.

Going multi-split provides flexibility: you only run the zones you need, resulting in lower energy
consumption.

However, in Victoria, Cyanergy is a renowned company that handles design, quoting, installation, and also guides
families through rebate
eligibility.

Decommissioning the old gas ducted heater

As part of eligibility for the VEU discount, the existing gas heater needed to be decommissioned in most cases.

This involves removing the system or disconnecting the ducted unit from the gas supply, following proper procedures
and obtaining certification, and utilizing expert installers.

Installation Process & Timing Period

Initially, after checking the eligibility, apply for the quotes.

The quote needs to be accepted and dated.

Then the installers will remove the old ducted heater, seal off the vents, and remove or disconnect the gas
appliance.

The outdoor inverter unit should be mounted externally in these households. The indoor units need to be
installed in each zone, minimising the intrusion of ductwork and piping.

The wiring and electrical breaker must be upgraded as needed.

The system will then be commissioned, and the necessary documentation will be submitted to the accredited provider for the VEU scheme.

Choosing efficiency over just cooling

Rather than improving just cooling, the Victorian households treated the upgrade as a heating & cooling renovation, switching to a system that uses electricity rather than gas.

Modern inverter systems are more efficient, as they modulate their output, offer better zoning, and can both heat and cool, allowing you to enjoy both winter comfort and summer cooling in one system.

At Cyanergy, we emphasise this home upgrade path:

“Efficient and Eco-Friendly Electric Multi-Split Air Conditioner. Take advantage of up to $7,200 in Victorian Government Energy Upgrade incentives, save big this winter on your gas bill.”

Out-of-pocket and rebate

Here is recent data from the average estimation for a household from the aircon rebate case study in Victoria.

In the quotation, the family had an installation cost of approximately $8,000 for the new multi-split system, including the decommissioning.

The VEU discount for gas-ducted to multi-split upgrades in Victoria was approximately $2,500.

So, their net out-of-pocket cost was ($8,000 – $2,500), which is approx $5,500.

How to Apply for the VEU Rebate: Are You Eligible?

The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program provides rebates for eligible energy-efficient upgrades such as
installing a high-efficiency reverse-cycle air conditioner to replace an older heating or cooling system.

Before we discuss how
the rebate works, here are the eligibility criteria.

So, to qualify under the VEU program:

The property must be more than two years old.
The existing heating or cooling system must be removed or replaced.
The new system must be an eligible high-efficiency reverse-cycle unit installed by an accredited
provider.

How the Rebate Works

In this case, the quote from Cyanergy already included the VEU discount, meaning the price shown was the net cost
after applying the rebate allocated to the installer.

After installation:

The accredited provider registers the upgrade with the VEU program.
They create and claim Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs) for the upgrade.
The value of those certificates is passed on to the customer as an instant discount on the invoice.

The homeowner simply has to:

Signs off that the old system was removed or decommissioned.
Provides any required evidence or documentation, like serial numbers or photos.

The Result

The rebate is applied instantly at the point of installation, reducing the upfront cost — no need for the homeowner
to submit a separate claim.

Why is the VEU rebate significant?

Rebates like this make a big difference in the decision-making process. As the website says:

On average, households that upgrade
can save between $120 and $1,100 per year on their energy bills.

Additionally, the government factsheet notes that households can save between $120 and over $1,000 annually,
depending on the type of system and upgrade.

Thus, the rebate reduces the payback period, making the system more widely available.

Energy Bill Before vs After: See the Savings!

Here’s where the real story says: the household’s actual bills before and after the upgrade.

Before Adding Air Conditioning System

Ducted gas heating and an older split system.
In Victoria during winter months, the average monthly gas cost is approximately $125, and for electricity,
and other supplementary costs, an additional $30. So roughly $155 per winter month. Therefore, over the
course of four months, the price can reach nearly $620.
In summer cooling months, if their older split system ran for 2 hours per day, for example, from May to
October, it would cost around $50 per month. Over the 6 months, it will be, $300.
Total annual heating and cooling cost is approximately $920

After Adding the Air Conditioning System

Household that installed a Multi-split reverse-cycle system.
During the winter months, running the zones efficiently and utilizing the inverter system resulted in a
decrease in heating electricity costs.

Let’s say the average is around $70 per month over four months, totaling approximately $280.

In the summer months, efficient cooling costs approximately $30 per month over six months, totaling around
$180.
So, the annual heating
and cooling cost is approximately $460.

Net Savings

Annual savings: $920 (before) – $460 (after) = $460 per year.

At that rate, the upgrade pays for itself in net savings and an upfront rebate.

However, as they also removed gas connection fees and standing charges, improving comfort, therefore, the “effective”
savings were perceived to be higher, around $1,200 in the first year with the air conditioning upgrade.

This figure also includes avoided gas standing charges of $150, lower maintenance costs of the old system, and
improved efficiency.

Maximising Your Savings| Key Insights from the VEU Rebate Program

Based on the case study and Cyanergy’s experience, here are some lessons and actionable tips for homeowners
considering an upgrade.

Don’t wait until your system dies.

Replace outdated or inefficient gas or electric resistance systems immediately. Once the system starts
failing, you
may have fewer options or higher installation disruption.

Choose a provider who handles the rebates.

Dealing with the rebate or discount component (VEU) on your own adds complexity, like documentation,
compliance, and
installation. So look for an accredited provider.

Understand the actual savings potential.

It’s not just the rebate amount; consider running costs, efficiency improvements, zoning, and the ability to
heat and
cool.

Ensure proper sizing and zone control.

As many families discovered, the benefit came from zoning: you only heat and cool rooms you use. Oversized
units or
whole-home heating can reduce savings.

Factor in non-energy benefits.

Better comfort, for example, quieter systems and more consistent temperatures, as well as the removal of gas
standing
charges, less
maintenance, and improved resale appeal for eco-conscious buyers, all benefit you.

Check the accreditation and compliance.

With rebate programs, there’s always a risk of non-compliant installations or companies that don’t follow
through.

So, do your homework: check that the installer is accredited for VEU, ask for references, and ensure that the
documentation is completed appropriately.

Request detailed quotes that include estimates for both “before rebate” and “after rebate”
costs.

This helps you see how much you’re actually paying, the discount you receive, and ensures transparency. The
rebate is
not always the full difference; minimum contribution rules apply.

Monitor your bills after installation.

Keep track of your energy bills (gas & electricity) before and after for at least 12 months. This will
indicate
whether the savings are as expected and aid in budgeting.

Be realistic about pay-back

Although the rebate helps upfront, large systems still cost thousands of dollars. Don’t expect payback in one
or two
years (unless you have extreme usage).

However, with a well-designed system, rebates, and efficiency gains, a payback of 5-10 years or better is
possible,
depending on usage.

Final Notes

This aircon rebate case study illustrates the VEU saving. By working with Cyanergy Australia, households transformed a traditional, inefficient gas-ducted heating and older split cooling system into a modern, efficient, zone-controlled multi-split reverse-cycle air-conditioning system.

This was made more affordable through the VEU scheme discount.

The result? A net cost of around $5,500, improved comfort, and savings of approximately $1,200 in the first year.

This real-world “VEU saving example” shows that:

Rebates matter as they make the upgrade financially viable.
Efficiency matters as modern multi-split reverse-cycle systems deliver lower running costs.
Removing inefficient gas heating can unlock significant savings.
A reliable installer who navigates the rebate process effectively is crucial.

So, if you are looking for an accredited provider in Australia, Cyanergy is here to help!

Contact us today to receive a free solar quote. We will handle all your paperwork to ensure a fast and smooth installation process.

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade? appeared first on Cyanergy.

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?

Renewable Energy

Air Power

Published

20 hours ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

About 20 years ago, a friend asked me if I was aware that cars could run on air. I asked, delicately, what she meant, and she explained that cars can run on compressed air.

“Ah,” I replied. “Of course they can. But where does the energy come from that compresses the air?” End of conversation.

Now, it’s back. Now there are enormous swaths of the population who know so little about middle school science that they believe we can put cars on the road, in an ocean of air, and extract energy out of that air to power our automobiles.

If you’re among these morons and want to invest with some heavy-duty fraud/charlatans, here’s your opportunity. They say that it’s “self-sustaining and needs no fuel.” If that makes sense to you, be my guest.