Volunteer community groups in Western Victoria will soon be saving thousands of dollars on energy costs by installing solar PV systems, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.
Labor Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney announced the latest beneficiaries of the $9.2 million Solar on Public Buildings program which helps put solar systems on community buildings across the state.
The program is reducing carbon emissions and operating costs and making selected sites more sustainable into the future so they can continue to be used by local communities.
The program is being rolled out across the state over the next two years, providing a boost to the economy.
Some of the first locations in Western Victoria receiving solar panel and battery installations include:
- Simpson Recreation Reserve
- Timboon Recreation Reserve
- Port Campbell Recreation Reserve
- Port Campbell Public Hall Reserve
- Woorndoo Recreation Reserve
- Birregurra Recreation Reserve
- Warrion Recreation Reserve
- Weerite Public Hall
- Yeodene Public Hall & Recreation Reserve
- Forrest Hall Committee
- Warrowie Recreation Reserve
- Red Hill Public Hall Incorporated
- Inverleigh Mechanics Institute Reserve Committee of Management
- Nelson Reserve Committee of Management Inc
- Tyrendarra Recreation Reserve
- Warrnambool Showgrounds Reserve Inc.
- Allansford Recreation Reserve
- Bolwarra Recreation Reserve
- Hawkesdale Memorial Hall
- Wangoom Memorial Hall
- Hotspur Hall
- Port Fairy to Warrnambool Rail Trail Committee Inc
Nearly 200 energy audits − the first step in the design of a solar system − have been carried out on selected sites around the state.
The program was first trialled in Gippsland from 2017 to 2019 and led to solar systems being installed on 69 public buildings on public land.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney
“This is a great example of how we’re delivering real action on climate change in Western Victoria by investing in local projects that will help our communities build thriving and sustainable futures.”
“This is a terrific outcome for the community, the environment and our hardworking volunteer committees who are the backbone of small communities across Victoria.”
“Our strong investment in renewable energy and solar panels is creating local jobs, reducing power bills and helping us achieve our ambitious emissions reduction targets.”