Group gifts power thanks to community fundraising campaign

BENDIGO Sustainability Group will provide some free three-kilowatt solar panels for low-income homeowners as part of its Giving Power campaign.

Bendigo Community Health Services helped Bendigo Sustainability Group find worthy recipients for the free solar panels after fundraising about $55,000.

“Everybody should be able to heat or cool their home to live comfortably in their space without worrying about how they’ll pay their bills when the time comes,” said Bendigo Sustainability Group executive officer Melissa Abel.

“It’s wonderful that we can help reduce that stress for people.”

“We want to make sure that everyone has the chance to take part in our transition to clean energy, regardless of their circumstance,” said Bendigo Sustainability Group president Amin Chaudary.

Bendigo East resident Margaret Crawford was the first of many homeowners to receive the gift at the beginning of September, said a spokesperson from the organisation.

Ms Crawford, now a grandmother, raised her family as a single mother and regularly minds her grandchildren.

According to Bendigo Sustainability Group, the rising price of electricity is a worry for her and would use her fireplace for warmth until a hip surgery made firewood collection difficult.

Ms Crawford resorted to using a blanket and only turn on the heating when “absolutely necessary,” she said.

The solar panels are estimated to save Ms Crawford more than $700 a year.

“Midland are proud to be part of Giving Power, helping out Bendigo locals who are doing it tough,” said Midland Solar consultant Steve Pearson.

“Everyone should have access to solar.”