Whether it’s the neighbourhood sports club, the community hall, the local pool or library, local government brings us together and keeps us thriving. The Albanese Government is working with councils, so they can save on their bills and invest more into their communities.
In the second round of the fund 66 local governments across Australia will receive $50 million (USD 33 million) in grants, empowering them to bring down their energy bills for good through energy efficiency and electrification upgrades to community facilities.
In Tasmania, five councils will share in $2.2 million to upgrade much loved community facilities with energy-efficient technology, with benefits to be enjoyed by communities from Burnie to Sorell.
Burnie City Council in the state’s north will electrify the Burnie Aquatic Centre’s heating systems, replacing gas with electric heat pumps. The cost-effective infrastructure will save rate payers long term and help reduce emissions.
George Town Council, also on Tasmania’s north coast, will install rooftop solar PV systems on council offices, works depot and the Graham Fairless Centre.
The project will similarly lower energy bills, improve infrastructure sustainability and set an example for small regional councils to follow.
Nearby Meander Valley Council’s offices will also be topped with solar panels.
Across the program, all projects include solar panels and over half will include battery storage systems.
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 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 Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins:
“This investment will cut the cost of running facilities that Tasmanian communities rely on while they become cleaner and more resilient for the future.
“These upgrades will help lower energy bills for councils and will deliver real benefits to Tasmanians.”
“I’m proud to see the Albanese Labor Government backing projects that help our state cut emissions, strengthen community infrastructure and support regional communities to thrive.”
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Josh Wilson:
“We are investing in a cheaper, cleaner energy future for every Australian.”
“This program will see benefits for public facilities like local swimming pools where gas boilers will be replaced with electric alternatives to reduce energy use, cut emissions, and help local governments reduce their running costs.”
Quotes attributable to Rebecca White MP, Federal Member for Lyons:
“The Albanese Government is delivering for Tasmanian communities. These upgrades are helping cut energy bills and make sure local facilities like pools, halls and council offices can keep serving their communities.”
“Thanks to this funding, Sorell and Meander Valley councils can power community facilities and buildings with clean, affordable energy. This is practical support that will benefit our communities.”
“Our government is making sure Tasmanians can use modern, efficient facilities that save money and cut emissions.”
Quotes attributable to Special Envoy for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience, Kate Thwaites:
“Local governments are on the front line of climate impacts, from floods to heatwaves. By investing in clean energy, we’re helping them build resilience and keep their communities strong.”
“Whether it’s a pool, a library or a sports ground, these projects show how practical climate action can save money today and protect communities for the future.”
“The Albanese Government is making sure every community has the tools to adapt and thrive as we transition to cleaner, cheaper energy.”
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