The Master Plumbers Association of NSW (MPANSW), which represents highly skilled plumbers across the state, has strongly denounced Waverley Council’s recent proposal to ban the use of gas in all new constructions.

In a public statement issued on 18 July 2023, the Association declared that:

This unwarranted overreach disregards property owners’ rights and undermines the principles of choice and innovation within the building industry.

MPANSW 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. The Council’s proposal to ban restricts consumer choice and denies builders the flexibility and creativity to deliver sustainable and efficient projects according to their client’s needs.

Gas is highly regarded for its reliability and versatility, providing efficient heating, cooking, hot water, and even powering essential appliances in many households nationwide. By imposing this blanket ban, Waverley Council ignores the numerous benefits of gas in terms of affordability, quick heating response, and less reliance on electricity during high-demand periods.

MPA NSW CEO Nathaniel Smith said, “Gas is a significantly cleaner option to coal-dependent electricity generation and will not create a higher demand on the electricity grid.” “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.”  “The electrical industry has portrayed gas as a dirty and not a renewable product, which is incorrect, as Biogas is a Natural Gas that is 100 per cent renewable.”

Mr Smith also said, “Council needs to reconsider this proposed ban and engage in constructive dialogue with industry experts to find alternative solutions that balance environmental concerns with the needs and preferences of the local community”. “Collaboration and open communication are key to ensuring sustainable and well-informed decisions that benefit all stakeholders involved.”