Australian Gas Networks Faces Court Action for Misleading Consumers on Renewable Gas Claim

Australia’s competition watchdog has taken Australian Gas Networks to federal court, alleging that the company misled consumers through its 'Love Gas' campaign. The ads, aired on TV, streaming platforms, and YouTube in 2022 and 2023, claimed household gas would become 'renewable' within a generation. However, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) stated that the company lacked reasonable grounds for this assertion due to technical and economic challenges in delivering renewable gas to homes.

The ACCC chair, Gina Cass-Gottlieb, accused Australian Gas Networks of 'greenwashing' in its campaign, suggesting that the ads aimed to entice consumers to connect to their network under false pretenses of receiving renewable gas. The ads featured a young girl and her father using gas appliances with voiceovers implying the gas was 'becoming renewable', ending with the slogan 'Love gas. Love a renewable gas future' without any clarifications.

'Renewable gas' typically involves a blend of hydrogen and fossil gas. Australian Gas Networks expressed disappointment at the ACCC's decision and vowed to defend against the allegations, emphasizing their commitment to providing accurate information about natural and renewable gas.

The ACCC initiated the investigation following complaints from consumers and the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF). ACF's CEO, Kelly O’Shanassy, praised the ACCC's legal action, highlighting the environmental impact of fossil fuel use and the industry's misleading practices.

Comms Declare, a climate organization, also criticized the company's use of 'renewable gas', urging an end to the misleading term. ACCC's Cass-Gottlieb emphasized the importance of businesses substantiating environmental claims and being realistic about energy technologies when making future-oriented statements.

According to the source: The Guardian.