Federal Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters MP joined COGB Mayor Thomas Prince to announce that the $2.4 million project will replace gas infrastructure with electric heat pumps powered by 100% renewable electricity, becoming fossil fuel free.
This upgrade will on average save 240 tonnes of carbon emissions and contributing to the City of Greater Bendigo’s goal of reaching zero net emissions by 2030.
This investment will also cut power bills saving the COGB ratepayers money that can be spent on elsewhere on other COGB services and projects.
This latest round of the Albanese Government is Community Energy Upgrades Fund also includes 33 upgrades to local aquatic centres and 10 grants for smart electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Almost all projects include solar panels and over half will include battery storage systems.
Whether it’s the neighbourhood sports club, the community hall, the local pool or library, local government brings us together and keeps us thriving.
Each year 8 million people use community sporting infrastructure, including local councils. The Albanese Government is working with councils, so they can save on their bills and invest more into their communities.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen:
“Generations of Australians have enjoyed and benefitted from facilities in the local community, and with this latest round of funding from the Albanese Labor Government, we are ensuring that these facilities can invest more into their work for their local communities.
“From the local cricket ground, story time at the library, and diving into the local pool at the height of summer, 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.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Bendigo, Lisa Chesters MP:
“Whilst the Liberals and Nationals continue to tear each other apart, we are getting on with the job of helping communities transition to electric alternative to reduce energy use, cut emissions, and help local governments reduce their running costs.”
“This is a great and practical project. It’s another example of how our Labor Government is supporting our local communities with cheaper power bills and the transition to renewables.”
“Federal Labor and I are delivering a cheaper, cleaner energy future for the Bendigo Electorate. We are getting on with the job.”
Quotes attributable to Mayor for the City of Greater Bendigo, Cr Thomas Prince:
“The City of Greater Bendigo appreciates the Federal Government’s partnership on this important project. Bendigo Library is the City’s third largest emitter in our building portfolio and has been a high priority for electrification.”
“This project also supports delivery of the City’s Climate Change and Environment Strategy, helping to progress the organisation’s net zero emissions goal by 2030, and will result in a zero emissions library for our community.”
