November 30th, 2021Sun shines on community facilities across the Grampians region
Volunteer committees managing public buildings are set to save thousands of dollars in electricity costs and reduce their carbon footprint thanks to the installation of rooftop solar panels through the Victorian Government’s Solar on Public Buildings (SoPB) Program.
Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) Grampians Solar on Public Buildings Officer, Tracey Milne, said 64 volunteer-managed sites across the Grampians region are being assessed for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, which convert the sun’s energy to electricity.
“This program aims to support voluntary committees managing public facilities in regional Victoria, while contributing to the Victorian Government’s emission reduction targets,” Ms Milne said.
“Ballan Racecourse and Recreation Reserve was the first in the region to benefit from the program and 14 other committees have now also had their systems installed.”
“Ballan Racecourse and Recreation Reserve received a 5kW system that will save around $2500 annually.”
Committees in the region to have received solar PV installations include:
• Amphitheatre Mechanics Institute Hall
• Ballan Racecourse and Recreation Reserve
• Barkly Hall and Recreation Reserve
• Dooen Public Hall
• Dooen Recreation Reserve
• Gordon Public Park & Recreation Reserve Incorporated
• Gordon Recreational Reserve
• Great Western Public Hall
• Kalkee Recreation Reserve
• Landsborough Public Hall
• Moonambel Public Hall Reserve
• Mt Egerton Mechanics Institute Hall
• Paradise Hall Reserve
• Wail Nursery
• Wonwondah Recreation Reserve
“Through savings on energy bills, the program is assisting community facilities to remain viable into the future. Reducing carbon emissions makes this a win-win situation.”
Committees of management were invited to submit an expression of interest in August last year to participate in the program. Sites were assessed on eligibility, suitability and need, then independent energy audits were carried out for those shortlisted.
Solar on Public Buildings is a $9.2 million program funded by the Victorian Government to support volunteer committees of management of Crown land.
