An additional 23 New South Wales councils will receive a combined AU$21 million from the federal government to upgrade community centres with energy-efficient technologies.
The federal government announced a new round of grants under its AU$100 million Community Energy Upgrades Fund, aimed at helping local governments bring down their energy bills through energy efficiency and electrification upgrades to community facilities.
In the second round of the fund, 66 local governments will receive AU$50 million in grants. This follows the first round of grants which saw 17 councils in New South Wales receive grants. In the second round, 23 councils will share AU$21 million to upgrade their community facilities with energy-efficient technology.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen said: “These upgrades will deliver a cheaper, cleaner energy future for Australia – it’s further proof that what’s good for the planet is good for the pocket.”
Several community facilities have already disclosed their plans to incorporate energy-efficient technologies. In Western Sydney, the Blacktown International Sports Park and Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre will install solar, battery storage and LED lighting to reduce energy costs.
Special Envoy for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience, Kate Thwaites said: “Local governments are on the front line of climate impacts, from floods to heatwaves. By investing in clean energy, we’re helping them build resilience and keep their communities strong.
“Whether it’s a pool, a library or a sports ground, these projects show how practical climate action can save money today and protect communities for the future.”
In the Hunter, the Charlestown Swim Centre will go electric, with its pool and hot water system to benefit from solar panels to cut its energy bills by an expected AU$128,000 annually.
In South Western Sydney, council-owned Mount Annan Leisure Centre will transition to 100 per cent renewable energy from gas, as well as expand rooftop solar on the centre. These upgrades are expected to cut energy use by 53 per cent, with savings of AU$185,000 in operational costs.
Griffith City Council in the state’s southwest will receive A$2.5 million, to electrify an indoor pool complex, installing solar and battery storage across water and wastewater sites.