• Location: Cape Woolamai, VIC
• Home Type: Free-standing, two-storey, fibro (built in the early 1980s)
• Residents: Laura, Terry, and their cat Banjo

A Home by the Ocean, Powered by the Sun

Twelve years ago, Laura and Terry settled into their home in Cape Woolamai. Over the past decade, they’ve been steadily transforming it into an energy-efficient haven.

Their journey began with a 4.5kW solar system, installed with the help of federal rebates. That early investment sparked a long-term commitment to sustainability and self-sufficiency.

A Gradual, Thoughtful Transition

Laura and Terry’s approach to electrification has been incremental and budget-conscious:

• Cooking with Confidence: They replaced their bottled gas stove with an electric induction cooktop just 12 months ago, enjoying better energy efficiency and cleaner, healthier air at home.
• Comfort Upgrades: Bit by bit, they’ve swapped out single-glazed windows and doors for double-glazed alternatives—starting with doors, then ground-floor windows, and planning to finish the upper floor in future.
• EV Enthusiasts: Their petrol cars have been replaced with electric vehicles—an MG4 named Barry and an MG ZS called Ziggy. Not only are they quieter and cleaner, but they’ve also slashed maintenance costs.

Solar Expansion & Battery Storage

In November 2024, they expanded their solar system to 9.68kW and added a 9.6kWh battery. The results?

• Quarterly Savings: Around $3,000 saved every quarter—a combination of increased energy production and storage, eliminated fuel costs, and lower vehicle maintenance.
• Net Positive Energy: In February 2025, they received a $10 credit on their electricity bill.

Living Their Values

Laura says the upgrades have made their home feel better—and not just in terms of physical comfort. It is more comfortable, but it also feels good knowing they are living in alignment with their values.

Their cat Banjo seems to agree, enjoying his own architecturally designed cat run with the sounds of the ocean in the background.

Tips for Others Starting Out

Terry’s advice? Do your research and connect with your community:

• Use online resources like Saul Griffith’s Australian Story and local council webinars.
• Talk to local groups like Totally Renewable Phillip Island (TRPI).
• Get multiple quotes from local installers to find the right fit.

Their biggest takeaway:

You don’t have to do it all at once. Do what you can, when you can afford it.

Why This Matters

Laura and Terry’s story shows that making your home more efficient doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive all at once. With thoughtful planning, and a bit of patience, any household can take meaningful steps toward a cleaner, more comfortable home that is cheaper to run.