The Master Plumbers Association (MPA) has strongly opposed Waverley Council's proposal to ban the use of gas in all new constructions.
MPA NSW CEO Nathaniel Smith said the proposal disregards property owners' rights and undermines the principles of choice and innovation within the building industry.
“MPA NSW firmly believes that a diverse range of energy options should be available to new build projects, including using gas, which has proven to be a reliable and cost-effective energy source for many residential and commercial properties," he said.
“Waverley Council would be wise to investigate the advancements in gas technology, including renewable natural gas (RNG) and the use of blending Hydrogen with Natural Gas, which are already happening successfully here in NSW and in other parts of the country.”
Mayor of Waverley, Paula Masselos, said it was important for Waverley, one of the most densely populated LGAs in Australia, to be encouraging sustainable housing design and development.
In March 2022, Waverley Council committed to achieve community greenhouse gas emissions of net zero by 2035, which is reflected in the Community Strategic Plan and Environmental Action Plan (2022 -2032), and its Development Control Plan.
“The Waverley community is extremely supportive of actions that ensure sustainable development, reduce emissions in our built environment and reduce our vulnerability to climate change impacts, and we are excited to support this as an innovative and forward-thinking organisation,” Masselos said.
New and revised provisions in the Waverley DCP 2022 will improve Indoor Air Quality and thermal safety with glazing for windows, ceiling fans and green roofs.
Other NSW councils are proposing gas bans including Canterbury Bankstown and the City of Sydney.