Published

3 weeks ago

November 7, 2025

Alice Rush

Hot summers, high electricity bills, and zero motivation to upgrade? The VEU rebate might be the breath of fresh and cool air you’ve been waiting for!

Victoria’s Energy Upgrades (VEU) program rewards homeowners for switching to energy-efficient air conditioning systems. That means just by upgrading your old air con you could actually save your money before it even starts cooling your home.

But hold on! Not all units are eligible under this rebate.

So, are you ready to find out which air cons qualify for the VEU rebate, keeping your home chill while helping you cash in on rebates?

Let’s dive in!

In this blog post:

Understanding the VEU Rebate: What It Is and How It Works?

The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) rebate is a government initiative designed to help households and businesses reduce energy costs
and, most importantly, lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Through the program, eligible Victorians can receive rebates or discounts when they install approved energy-efficient
products such as air conditioners, LED lighting, or hot water systems.

The rebate is applied directly through accredited providers, making it simple and hassle-free for consumers. By
choosing a VEU-approved system, you not only save on upfront installation costs but also enjoy long-term energy
savings.

In short, the VEU rebate rewards you for upgrading to more innovative, greener technology that benefits both your
wallet and the environment.

So, it’s a win-win for all!

Top Benefits of Switching to an Energy-Efficient Electric Air Conditioner

Upgrading your heating and cooling system can be a game-changer for Victorians. It provides several advantages, such
as:

Improve Air Quality Inside Your Home

Modern air conditioners come with advanced filters that remove dust, allergens, and pollutants, keeping your
indoor
air cleaner and healthier.

Increased Property Value

Installing an energy-efficient system in your home can boost your home’s aesthetics and comfort. It makes homes
more
attractive to eco-conscious buyers.

Reliable Performance

New, high-efficiency units are built with the latest technology, offering quieter operation, faster cooling, and
longer-lasting performance. This offers energy security
and
fosters economic growth.

Smart Control Options

Many energy-efficient air conditioners are compatible with Wi-Fi or smart thermostats. This gives you easy
temperature control from your smartphone.

Reduced Maintenance Costs

With improved design and efficiency, these systems experience less wear and tear, leading to fewer breakdowns and
lower service costs.

Future-Proof Investment

Switching to an energy-efficient model today ensures compliance with future energy standards and sustainability
goals.

Types of Air Conditioning Systems: Split, Multi-Split & Ducted!

When it comes to cooling and heating homes in Victoria, there are three main system types you’ll find in the Australian energy market. Each type has its own relevance under the VEU scheme.

Before moving to the details, here we’ve shared an overview for better understanding:

Split (Single-Split) Systems

A standard split system air conditioner, often referred to as a single-head unit, features one outdoor unit connected to one indoor unit.

This type of air conditioner is ideal for heating or cooling a single room or a zone. Under the VEU rebate, many split systems are eligible. Also, Split systems are typically the cheapest upgrade option, and a good entry point into the rebate scheme if you have budget issues.

Multi-Split Systems

These aircons are basically an outdoor unit connected to multiple indoor units or heads, which allows zoned climate control across several rooms. It provides greater flexibility and improves energy efficiency while reducing energy costs.

The VEU program clearly lists “multi-split reverse cycle air-conditioners” as eligible products. These systems qualify under the “high efficiency air-conditioner” (Activity 6) category of VEU.

Multi-split air conditioners are an excellent option for larger homes or for those who want separate control in bedrooms, living areas, etc.

Ducted Reverse-Cycle Systems

Ducted systems distribute conditioned air via ductwork to multiple rooms, effectively covering the entire house. A reverse-cycle ducted system, capable of both heating and cooling, is eligible under VEU when it meets the specified criteria.

For example, data from the VEU fact sheet shows that ducted reverse-cycle upgrades attract higher rebates.

Although these tend to be higher-cost, more complex installations, they also offer greater rewards in terms of comfort and rebates when done correctly.

In Victoria, whether it’s a single split, multi-split, or full-ducted system, all three system types can qualify if they meet the efficiency, warranty, product registration, and installer criteria.

So, keep reading—we’ll cover them all in the next section.

Is Your Unit VEU-Approved? Find Out in 5 Easy Steps!

You’ve found a new air-con unit that might look great, but you still need to check it qualifies under the VEU scheme
to save cost. Here’s how:

Step 1: Check the VEU Register of Products

Go to the website of the Essential Services Commission (Vic)
(ESC) and look up the “Register of Products” for Activity 6 Space heating & cooling high efficiency
air-conditioner.

You’ll need to check:

The specific brand and model are listed in the VEU-approved air conditioners list.
The product category matches the unit you’re installing, such as ducted vs. non-ducted, size, and model
number.
The listing status is still current, as some models may be replaced or deregistered.

Step 2: Match Efficiency & Other Specs

Once you’ve found your desired model, check that it meets the relevant efficiency thresholds required for its size
and type. Use the specification tables provided in the Activity Guide.

Step 3: Ensure Installer and Provider Accreditation

Even if the unit is approved, the rebate requires that the installation be carried out by or via a VEU-accredited
provider. Avoid common
mistakes, such as installing a unit yourself or using a non-accredited installer. This might risk losing the
VEU rebate.

Step 4: Confirm Eligibility of Your Premises

Your property must typically be more than 2 years old and in Victoria.
Your current system may need to be decommissioned if required.
Rental properties can also qualify, but they’ll need landlord consent.

Step 5: Ask for Documentation

Good providers will give you documentation showing “VEU product listed”, “VEU accredited provider”, installation
compliance, etc.

Keep these documents, as they will be helpful in the future if any rebate audit is required.

Air Conditioner Eligible for the VEU Rebate: Find Out!

Wondering which air conditioner falls under the VEU rebate program?

Here are some air conditioning units eligible for rebates. However, always verify current eligibility on the register before purchasing, as it changes regularly.

VEU Rebates on Ducted Reverse Cycle Air Conditioner

Current system	Upgrade system size	Rebate Amount
Central electric resistance ducted heater	10kW to 22.4kW	Up to $5,460
Ducted gas heater	10kW / 16kW / 22.4kW	Up to $2,520/ $4,200/ $5,530, respectively
Ducted reverse cycle air conditioner	10kW / 16kW / 22.4kW	Up to $490/ $770/ $910, respectively
No decommissioned product	10kW & 22.4kW	Up to $410

VEU Rebates on Reverse Cycle Air Conditioner

Installed System Details	Upgrade System Size	Rebate Amount
Hard-wired electric resistance room heater	3kW to 9kW	Up to $840
Ducted (whole house) gas heater	4 split systems (1 x 8kW & 3 x 3kW)	Up to $2,520
Ducted gas heater	Multi-split system ( 1 x 10kW outdoor unit)	Up to $2,940
Non-ducted (room) gas heater	3kW to 9kW	$630 to $1,610
Non-ducted reverse cycle air conditioner	3kW to 9kW	$210
No decommissioned product	3kW to 9kW	$70 to $140

Some VEU-Approved Air Conditioner Brands

Several air-conditioning brands, such as Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric, Panasonic, Fujitsu, Midea, and SmartLifestyle,
offer models that qualify for the VEU rebate program.

However, over 550 split-system units from major brands are listed under Activity 6(23) of the VEU program. Still,
eligibility entirely depends on the specific model and its registration number, not just the brand.

These are a few actual models popular in the Victorian energy market:

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries SCM100ZS-W (10 kW multi-split).
Panasonic CU-5Z100VBR (10 kW multi-split).
Daikin 5MXM100R2VMA (multi-split). High efficiency with EER 3.91, COP 4.72 in one list of top models.
For ducted: “Panasonic U-100PZH3R5” is listed with an EER of 3.79 on the efficient ducted list.

These examples show you the types and models of the best air conditioner brands under the VEU Program. What you need
to do is always check your specific model’s listing and specs in the Public Registry.

How to Choose the Right Air Conditioning System: Expert Tips!

Choosing the right air-con unit under the VEU rebate scheme isn’t that difficult if you want a good fit for your home, climate, budget, and usage.

Here are some practical tips:

Consider Your Home & Heating, Cooling Needs

How many rooms or areas do you need to cool or heat?

If just one room, maybe a single split is sufficient; multiple rooms or zones might favor multi-split or ducted.

If you need full-house heating and cooling, go for a reverse cycle, which the rebate requires anyway.
Ducted vs. zone: Ducted systems provide whole-home coverage but are costly; multi-split systems can achieve zone
control at a more affordable cost.

Check the Efficiency Specs & Brand

Push for higher efficiency: units with EER above 4.0 and COP above 4.0 will perform much better.
Choose reputable brands with good warranty/support, especially since the rebate requires a minimum 5-year
warranty for many systems.
Consider refrigerant type and the manufacturer’s service network, so you aren’t stuck when something needs
servicing.

Make Sure It Qualifies & Installation is Compliant

Confirm that the exact model number is on the VEU register, not just the brand.
Ensure the installer is VEU-accredited and will handle the paperwork. A compliant installation is just as
critical as the product.
Ask the installer what “decommissioning” is required if you have to remove an old gas heater or an electric
resistance heater; this may affect the cost and rebate value.
Get a quote that clearly shows how the rebate is applied (often as a discount on the installation cost) and what
you pay out of pocket.

Think Long-Term Running Costs, Not Just Upfront Price

A cheaper unit that just qualifies may still cost you more in electricity than a slightly more expensive
high-efficiency one.
Consider smart controls, zoning, and inverter technology; these features boost comfort and savings.
Keep in mind the maintenance costs and reliability if you want this unit to last and perform.

Be Aware of Rebate Limits & Timing

The rebate amounts vary, so check properly.
There is a minimum customer contribution. For example, non-ducted systems with a capacity of less than 10 kW
must have a contribution of at least $200, whereas multi-split/ducted systems require a contribution of
$1,000.
The product must be listed at the time of VEEC creation, installer deadlines must be met, and you need to keep
the required paperwork.

Want to upgrade your system? Before it’s too late, contact Cyanergy today and
get a free solar quote! Here, our team of experts will help
you get the rebate and install the system hassle-free.

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post Which Air Con Systems Qualify for the VEU Rebate? appeared first on Cyanergy.

Which Air Con Systems Qualify for the VEU Rebate?

Renewable Energy

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

Published

8 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

14 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

19 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.