Grants help local groups save money and the environment

A QUINTET of community facilities across the Geelong region will cut not only their energy bills but also their greenhouse gas emissions through projects supported by the state government.

Last week, Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio today announced 88 Victorian community groups would receive grants to upgrade or install solar and renewable energy batteries to improve the energy efficiency of their buildings.

The state government has put $1.8 million into the second round of the Community Climate Change and Energy Action CCCEA program.

Upgrades include converting to solar electricity with battery storage, switching to more efficient LED lighting, upgrading older air conditioning units or installing efficient electric hot water systems.

Local recipients in the second round are:

* The Geelong branch of the Association of Ukranians in Victoria for the replacement of inefficient heating, hot water, cooking and refrigeration appliances with efficient electric models at the Association of Ukrainians Community Hall

* Austrian Club Geelong Inc for a 10 kW solar installation at the Austrian Club Geelong Club Hall* Borough of Queenscliffe for installation of a 28.0 kWh battery to complement existing solar panels, split system A/C and LED lighting at Queenscliffe Neighbourhood House

* City of Greater Geelong for a 29kW solar installation at Ocean Grove Tennis Club, and

* Portarlington Golf Club for a 99.4 kW solar installation.

“We’re giving community groups like kindergartens, sports clubs and cultural groups the opportunity to reduce their energy costs by upgrading their facilities with simple switches which save money and slash emissions,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.“We’re helping community groups reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by over 4,400 tonnes per year — bringing us closer to our goal of reducing Victoria’s emissions by 50 per cent by 2030.”

For more information, head to sustainability.vic.gov.au/community-climate-change-and-energy-action-funded-projects