Linda Bradburn Is Proof You Can Go Electric Over Time

Linda Bradburn Is Proof You Can Go Electric Over Time 

There’s nothing more satisfying to Linda Bradburn than getting another household to go electric. 

The Victorian retiree has electrified her home step by step over more than 15 years - installing solar, a heat pump hot water system, induction cooking and reverse-cycle air conditioning. She’s now on a mission to show others that making the switch can be done over time, is easy to do and is not only good for the environment, it makes sound financial sense. 

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The former environmental educator says: “I’ve been involved with the climate movement for decades and for me going electric is also about walking the talk. By doing it myself, I can share my knowledge with others and persuade them to follow suit.” 

Linda is lucky in that, at both the state and local level, she’s benefited from rebates that helped her electrify her home. 

It began 15 years ago with her local council rolling out a bulk-buy solar panel offer. She then followed up with a split-system heating system, installed low-energy light bulbs and, with the help of another promotion, got a gas-boosted solar system for her hot water. 

Three years ago it was time to replace her gas oven and cooktop with an all-electric version, which for Linda was an easy decision. 

“I had been using a portable induction cooktop so I knew how good they were, and once I realised that gas was escaping from my main oven it was time to move on.” 

Linda then made the sensible decision to future-proof her needs and got a new fuse box installed and a power point in her driveway - preparation for the day she gets an electric car. 

The last move away from gas was 12 months ago, replacing her old solar gas hot water  system with a heat pump thanks to another rebate on offer. That meant she could finally disconnect from gas, get the gas meter removed, and stop paying her gas supply charge. 

“The rebates help you choose the right appliance and right installer and so made it all so easy. I just signed on the dotted line. Whilst I would have made the move anyway, this all helped and I am sure it will get others over the line too. We just need more of it from governments, federal and state, across the country so more people can get off  gas.” 

Linda is an active member of the Darebin Climate Action Now community group and does all  she can to encourage people in her community to get off gas. 

“I am glad I have lived experience in doing so and can show people all the benefits. One of the easiest things people can do is stop using gas by getting a portable  induction cooktop. They are cheap, can be plugged in anywhere and sit on top of your gas cooktop. And for those who are worried about their pots and pans not being  compatible - if a fridge magnet sticks to the bottom of your pan, it will work. If not, get down to your op-shop and do the same there - you’ll get some replacements very  cheaply.”

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Want to join Linda and help others save on their power bills? Join a local community group and start spreading the word!