16 February 2022
The Department has received concerns about the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) Refrigerated Cabinet (RC) activity.
Stakeholders have raised concerns that RCs are being installed at inappropriate business premises and in inappropriate numbers.
DELWP is taking these concerns seriously and is investigating the activity, including consideration of accredited provider behaviour that might impact on the integrity of the VEU program. DELWP is working closely with the Essential Services Commission (ESC) and discussing whether any actions are needed to ensure the RC activity is completed appropriately. The ESC also monitors the RC activity and provides regular updates to DELWP.
Inappropriate conduct for this activity may include, but is not limited to:
- installation of RC units at businesses that have no pre-existing need to display or store food and/or drink
- installation of multiple RC units without the need for that amount of storage capacity
- installation of RC units that are not fit for purpose
- replacement of domestic refrigerators and freezers with RC units where a domestic refrigerator or freezer would be better suited, for example, in break rooms or offices.
Completing an RC activity in this manner is unlikely to result in a genuine reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, impacting the objectives of the VEU program.
If you have questions, concerns and suggestions on this matter, you may send them to energy.upgrades@delwp.vic.gov.au.
Page last updated: 20/09/22