Free or discounted light bulbs and showerheads

There are various companies accredited under the NSW Greenhouse Gas Reduction Sheme (GGAS) who offer or install energy saving light bulbs and water efficient showerheads. The products are not provided by GGAS or the NSW Government.

What is GGAS?

GGAS is the NSW Greenhouse Gas Reduction Scheme (GGAS) and was established by the NSW Government in 2003.  GGAS is one of the first mandatory greenhouse gas emissions trading schemes in the world. GGAS aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production and use of electricity.  Electricity production and use is the largest single source of greenhouse gases, and these gases are contributing to climate change.

Why are these companies providing light globes and showerheads?

Projects that reduce the use of electricity, including those that result in the installation of energy saving light globes and water saving showerheads (if connected to electric hot water systems) reduce indirectly the emission of greenhouse gases.  The companies giving these products away can create credits called NGACs for reducing emission of greenhouse gases.  NGACs have a market value and can be sold.

How do these companies create NGACs?

These companies create NGACs by offering or installing light globes and showerheads and having the householder sign a nomination form confirming how many products have been received or installed. When products are given away or sold, the company can only claim a discounted number of NGACs because it is recognised that the person receiving them may not install the products immediately. The company creating the NGACs is responsible for any claims made about reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Does signing a form affect the household's electricity account ?

Signing a nomination form for these products does not affect a person's electricity account in any way. While some companies that are electricity and water providers are also accredited under GGAS, signing a nomination form for light bulbs and showerheads does not commit a person to any other offer from these companies.

Can people get free products from more than one company?

If you receive products from any company accredited under GGAS, you must sign a declaration that you will install the products and replace non-energy efficient products. Similarly, if another company accredited under GGAS installs products for you, they can only create NGACs if the products replace non-energy efficient products.

Is this being funded by the Government? 

No.  The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Scheme is a market based scheme.  Companies are under no obligation to participate to create NGACs.  However any company that sells electricity in NSW must reduce the level of greenhouse gas emissions per customer over time.  One way they can do this is through encouraging customers to reduce their electricity consumption by installing energy efficient light globes.

Want to know more about applying to become accredited for a light bulb program? 

It is recommended that you read the Fact Sheet - Creating NGACs using the Default Abatement Factor Method.

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