LOCAL community organisations across the Goulburn Valley will share in $1.3M worth of funding to deliver projects that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 1,695 tonnes annually, while also reducing energy usage.
The organisations who will receive the funding were announced last week by Member for Northern Victoria, Mark Gepp MP.
Organisations can apply for up to $50,000 through the Community Climate Change and Energy Action program to upgrade heating and cooling, install shading, insulation, double glazing, lighting and renewable energy installations like roof-top solar panels and battery storage.
Greater Shepparton City Council received a total of $24,000 to conduct energy audits at Toolamba Community Centre, Tatura Community House, Murchison Community Centre, Bangerang Cultural Centre and Tatura Football Club (Ballantyne Centre).
Tatura Community House manager Leeane Bullard shared with us her thoughts on being selected to receive a share of the funding.
“Tatura community house are committed to working with Council and other organisations to reduce emissions,” said Leeane.
Sustainability officer for Greater Shepparton City Council Marisa O’Halloran spoke of Council’s commitment to reducing emissions.
“Council has declared a climate emergency and have adopted a 2030 zero emissions target. We are very keen to understand the energy use within our facilities and work with the community to reduce energy use and costs,” Marisa said.
GV Community Energy CEO Geoff Lodge also discussed the benefits of the grant.
“There’s opportunities in every building and facility to reduce energy use and carbon footprint. This program will identify this and will demonstrate how they can be reduced in a cost-effective manner.”
A further $1.8M in grants is available in the next round of funding which opens this week. For more information and to apply, visit: www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/grants.
