- Published:
- Thursday 28 March 2019
Bendigo residents are taking control of their energy costs with rooftop solar for local sporting facilities, thanks to community fundraising and support from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio and Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards today officially launched the Eaglehawk Badminton and Table Tennis Stadium solar project.
The $32,000 project received the support and donations of 52 community members and will see the stadium benefit from a new 31 kw solar PV system which is set to save the stadium more than $5,500 each year.
The project is one of the first initiatives delivered by the Bendigo Community Power Hub, which brings together locals to develop community-owned and operated renewable energy projects in regional areas.
The Bendigo Community Hub has also fitted social housing units with almost 100 solar panels, saving each residence around $550 annually.
The Bendigo Community Hub was funded through the Labor Government’s $900,000 Community Power Hubs Program, which is being trialled for two years in Ballarat, Bendigo and Latrobe Valley. The program helps communities take charge of energy costs by supporting investment in renewables and energy efficiency upgrades.
The Hubs help communities tap into local skills and expertise to develop and deliver renewable energy projects with local ownership, participation and benefit-sharing.
The program is part of the Labor Government’s plan to reach its target of 50 per cent renewable energy by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“We’re helping communities use the skills and expertise they already have to develop renewable energy projects.”
“The community-owned and operated power hubs are driving investment into regional Victoria, creating jobs and helping to reduce electricity bills.
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
“The community has come together to fund a project that will deliver benefits for years to come – people in Bendigo recognise the huge benefits solar can deliver.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
“Bendigo residents are taking charge of their energy bills – this is a fantastic grassroots project that will cut power bills for a great local facility.”