Orange City Council has partnered with social enterprise ZapCat to launch a free online tool for homeowners and renters to help them transition to all-electric homes, save money, reduce emissions, and improve home comfort.

The ZapCat tool provides instant, personalised and free estimates for the cost of common home energy upgrades such as solar panels, batteries, hot water heat pumps, EV chargers, induction cooktops, and reverse-cycle air conditioning.

ZapCat co-founders Piroska Bisits-Bullen and Jimmy Li set out to simplify the process of transitioning homes to clean energy, making it “as easy as ordering Uber Eats.”

Their website aims to provide all the information you need in plain English, with a simple process to estimate costs and savings, and even book certified local installers.

As a certified social enterprise, 50 per cent of their profits go to supporting households facing barriers to transitioning to clean energy, including the one in four Australian households experiencing energy poverty.

Orange City Council Sustainability Committee Chair Councillor David Mallard said the tool makes it easier for households to plan their energy upgrades.

“Electrifying your home is one of the most impactful steps you can take to reduce your energy bills and improve thermal comfort,” Cr Mallard said.

“This tool gives residents clear, independent, information so they can make informed decisions.”

The ZapCat tool is simple to use. Simply visit zapcat.com.au/orange, enter a few details about your home and energy use, and get tailored cost estimates in just two minutes, with no obligation.

You will also find guides to help households understand the benefits of electrification and how to get started.

The site even includes an option for renters to receive a prioritised list of ways to save on energy bills and improve home comfort.

As well as the ZapCap tool, Orange City Council has more information available on steps you can take to electrify your home and save on energy bills at orange.nsw.gov.au/sustainability/electrify-everything