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In parts of Victoria from 2026, Solstice Energy is closing its compressed natural gas (CNG) network. If you are impacted by the network closing, you will need to:

  • switch to electric appliances, or
  • move to bottled gas (LPG).

Need to talk to someone?

Email DEECA: solstice.support@deeca.vic.gov.au

Phone: 1800 413 137 from anywhere in Australia, Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm.

If you are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment, contact us through the National Relay Service at 133 677 or visit the National Relay Service.

Why is the Solstice CNG network closing?

Solstice Energy has owned and operated the CNG network in regional Victoria since its establishment. Earlier this year, they elected to close it, because it had become too expensive.

What is a CNG network?

A CNG network refers to a compressed natural gas network. This means that gas is delivered to customers without a traditional underground pipeline. Instead the compressed natural gas is transported to ‘daughter stations’ in towns, where it's stored and distributed via local pipes. This creates a 'virtual pipeline' for rural and remote communities.

About Solstice Energy

Solstice Energy is a diversified energy business based in Tasmania, offering retail electricity and natural gas. Their business operations span Tasmania, and regional Victoria. More about Solstice Energy.

Who is impacted?

The CNG network is closing in the following Victorian towns.

Loddon Mallee region

  • Marong
  • Heathcote
  • Swan Hill
  • Maldon
  • Robinvale
  • Kerang

Hume region

  • Nathalia

Barwon South West region

  • Terang

Gippsland region

  • Lakes Entrance
  • Orbost

When the network will be shut down

The CNG network will close by mid to late-2026.

Please revisit this page as we progressively update the schedule of when your town’s CNG network will be shut off.

Options if you are impacted by the network closing

The below information includes estimated costs, rebates, and potential savings if you want to switch to electric appliances.

Gas hot water heater to an energy-efficient electric heat pump

Initial cost: $4,000–$5,000
Rebates/discounts: Up to $2,030 if you buy and install a locally made hot water system or up to $1,630 if you choose another system
Solstice payment: $300-$600
Typical yearly savings with LPG*: $560 (approximately)
Typical yearly savings after going electric#: $1,560 (approximately)

Gas room heater to electric reverse cycle unit

Initial cost: $2,400–$5,000
Rebates/discounts: Up to $1,610 when you replace a gas heater
Solstice payment: $400
Typical yearly savings with LPG*: $460 (approximately)
Typical yearly savings after going electric#: $1,300 (approximately)

Gas central heating to electric ducted reverse cycle system

Initial cost: $10,700–$16,000
Rebates/discounts: Up to $5,530 when you replace a gas ducted heater
Solstice payment: $600
Typical yearly savings with LPG*: $1,170 (approximately)
Typical yearly savings after going electric#: $3,370 (approximately)

Gas cooktop to induction cooktop

Initial cost: $2,300–$3,000
Rebates/discounts: Up to $140 to replace an existing gas cooktop
Solstice payment: $250
Typical yearly savings with LPG*: $50 (approximately)
Typical yearly savings after going electric#: $110 (approximately)

* Estimated yearly energy bill savings when household converts from CNG to LPG.
# Estimated yearly energy bill savings when household converts from the CNG network to all-electric.

Please note:

  • Eligible Solstice customers will receive $1,000 per premises to convert to electric appliances. This is in addition to the rebates/discounts shown in the table above.
  • Solstice will only manage a conversion if you decide to move to bottled gas (LPG).
  • Savings amounts are indicative only and don’t consider your specific circumstances. You may have agreements with energy retailers and tariffs that impact these amounts.

Upgrade your existing appliances through the VEU program

You can upgrade the following appliances:

  • gas hot water heater to an energy-efficient electric heat pump
  • gas room heater to an electric reverse cycle air conditioner
  • gas central heating to an electric ducted reverse cycle system
  • gas cooktop to an induction cooktop.

Go to the VEU’s latest discounts and rebates for more information, or find accredited providers supporting households in your town.

Install an energy efficient hot water system through Solar Victoria

For information, visit Solar Victoria:

If you want to move to bottled gas, Solstice Energy:

  • can manage this process for you, or
  • will provide financial support if you manage the upgrade yourself.

Please visit Helping you switch to cheaper energy.

Note: DEECA is not affiliated with Solstice Energy. Please direct to Solstice any questions about rebates, payments, timing or other concerns.

We will be visiting your area soon

Representatives from DEECA will be visiting the affected locations soon. Please revisit this page for details on when we will be in your area.

Page last updated: 10/10/25