The Energy Efficiency Council has called for upgrades of community and government buildings to stimulate jobs and rebuild a strong economy post the coronavirus pandemic.
In a statement this week, the council and other peak bodies said: “If done well, these investments would durably lower energy bills; ease strains on a rapidly changing energy system; improve health and safety during increasingly hot summers; boost the competitiveness of local manufacturers; and enable deeper emissions cuts”.
In related news, the Hawkesbury City Council has signed a long-term energy contract with electricity provider Engie to move closer to its goal of achieving net-zero emissions.
The 10-year Power Purchasing Agreement (PPA) will reduce the council’s carbon emissions by about 67,000 tonnes (the equivalent of taking more than 1000 cars off our roads) and deliver significant ongoing cost savings through reduced rates on council’s electricity bills.
Hawkesbury City Council Mayor Barry Calvert said: “Rising electricity costs are affecting communities across Australia. Businesses and government organisations also feel this cost pressure, including local councils.
“Our agreement with Engie will enable us to reduce our costs while standing by our commitment to renewable energy.”
Under the terms of its PPA, all the electricity consumed at Hawkesbury’s largest facilities will be matched against the equivalent volume of energy taken from solar farms at Parkes and Griffith.