I agree with Brian Welch of the Master Builders Association that Victoria should tackle its 1.9 million homes which lack effective insulation, efficient showerheads and modern internal plumbing. There is also good advice in phasing out inefficient electrical appliances.

As Brian says, these ideas were considered low hanging fruit which can be quickly achieved without compromising housing affordability. I would have also counted sky lights and energy efficient light bulbs among this group.

However, should other proposals be simply dismissed as being too expensive (adding $5,000-$15,000 per home), too long-term (decades before substantial change is achieved) and socially irresponsible (exacerbating the housing affordability crisis).

Solar hot water systems and double glazing add to housing costs, but are candidates which offer practical solutions, particularly as energy becomes more expensive and air-conditioning becomes the norm. I would not dismiss them so readily.

What is lacking here is public education on just what the average person can do and how much it costs (versus energy savings)to be more efficient in energy use.

For example, how many people actually wash their dishes before putting them into the dishwasher? If you are going to do that, then why have a dishwasher?

More public education is needed. We have seen how people have changed the way they use water, and there are clear and consistent messages to support that change in behaviour. Each day, we are reminded of our dam levels.

But I bet most people don't know the best ways to become more energy efficient. A start would be a practical guide of useful hints to stick on the fridge, and an education program through schools. Kids soon get the message and will take it home.

Simply go back to the housing style of our forebears, who did not have electricity to assist with the comfort and running of their homes. Big houses with deep verandah, deciduos trees that throw shade on the house in the summer mornings, room layout based on energy considerations rathen than lifestyle, hot water systems turned up (this depends on whether water saving or energy saving is the main aim, as high hot water temps means a lot less water needs to be used to get it hot enough for dishwashing, laundry, bathing etc), high ceilings. Its not rocket science.