Happy outcome for Victorian sparky who helps people electrify and save money

Mornington Peninsula business owner Trent Jones has seen vast changes in his industry since starting out as an electrician 18 years ago.

Ten years ago, Trent set up Want A Sparky, providing electrical services to Victorian homes and businesses, including nursing homes, shopping centres and schools. But when clients started asking about heat pump hot water, he saw a need to expand.

“To install a heat pump hot water system, we also needed plumbers, but we didn’t get much traction when we tried to get plumbers to sub-contract with us,” Trent says. “I realised there was a massive hole in the industry.”

So, Trent hired a head plumber and established Want a Heat Pump, a new division in his business. They’ve since installed more than 1600 heat pump hot water systems, replacing gas or inefficient electric systems.

Trent then took the next step, setting up All Electric Homes. The company employs 35 people, including electricians, plumbers and refrigeration mechanics, and provides a full suite of services to clients who wish to electrify their homes and businesses.

“We are going through a massive energy transition, which doesn’t happen too often – maybe every 100 years – and we must make big changes.

“There’s so much work out there, and it’s time for electricians and plumbers to divert to this space because if they don’t, they’ll be left behind.”

All Electric Homes installs solar panels, batteries, heat pump hot water systems, reverse cycle split systems, refrigerated ducted heating and cooling, induction cooktops, electric vehicle charging and energy-efficient lighting, upgrades electrical supply and distribution systems, and removes gas appliances and metres.

Having different trades and administration together streamlines the process, helps clients access government rebates and provides a full suite of electrification needs.

“Our objective is to make it easier for the consumer. We help people to get off the gas, decarbonise their home to zero emissions and save money within weeks.”

Recently they’ve focused on supporting local government to meet their emissions reduction goals by electrifying infrastructure, such as community centres.

Trent said the shift in his business had delivered unintended benefits, too.

“We are dealing with much happier people,” he says. “Not only do our clients reduce their emissions and save money on their bills, but energy efficiency can also increase the value of a home and attract financial incentives on home loans. They’re spending money, but there’s a return on their investment. Our clients are happier, and our employees are happier. Everyone’s happy.”