Library books new chapter with gas replacement plan

THE City of Greater Bendigo has welcomed $1.2 million from the Federal Government towards its $2.4 million Bendigo Library Getting off Gas project,

Gas infrastructure will be replaced with electric heat pumps, powered by 100 per cent renewable electricity.

The upgrade will on average save 240 tonnes of carbon emissions annually and contribute to the City’s goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2030 while reducing the library’s power bills.

The funding comes from the Federal Community Energy Upgrades program, which also includes more than 30 upgrades to local aquatic centres and 10 grants for smart electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Almost all projects involve solar panels and over half will make use of battery storage systems.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said generations of Australians have enjoyed and benefitted from public facilities in the local community, and with this latest round of funding the government is aiming to help these facilities invest more into their work.

“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,” he said.

Federal Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters said it’s a great and practical project.

“It’s another example of how our government is supporting our local communities with cheaper power bills and the transition to renewables,” she said.

“(We’re) delivering a cheaper, cleaner energy future for the Bendigo electorate.”