City embraces solar energy

SOLAR panels have been installed on three key centres across Ballarat.

The municipal sites include Girrabanya Integrated Children’s Centre, Sebastapol Library, and Wendouree Children’s Centre as buildings that could benefit from improved energy sustainability.

City mayor Cr Daniel Maloney said the rooftop solar system project is part of the municipality’s plan to achieve 100 per cent renewable energy.

“Back in May, the City of Ballarat joined the Victorian Energy Collaboration as one of 46 councils, in one of the largest ever emissions reduction projects in Australian local government,” he said.

“This solar project is another great energy saving initiative that aligns to the City’s 2019-2025 Carbon Neutrality and 100 per cent Renewable Action Plan.”

The three centres share a total of 107 kilowatts in solar systems and City sustainability officer Ching Tiong Tan said the project has already seen energy cost reductions.

“Already following installation in June, the 40-kilowatt solar system installed at Girrabanya has offset power costs by around 20 to 25 per cent,” he said.

The use of solar at the locations is estimated to save between $5000 to $8500 on annual electricity bills.

City manager of integrated children’s services Rebecca Karslake said the solar systems at two children’s centres could allow for more education about renewable energy.

“The installation is a win win, cleaner, more economic sustainable energy that at the same time provides a great learning opportunity for our future leaders as they begin conversations about where our energy comes from and the impact on our environment,” she said.