Solar installations at Council buildings

Thursday, 6 June, 2019

More of Strathbogie Shire will soak up the sunshine than ever before.

Strathbogie Shire Council is on its way to its target of zero net emissions by 2025 with the installation of 43kW on four key buildings across the municipality this month, kicking off with a 33kW installation at Council Offices in Euroa.

In addition to solar, Council will be undertaking key energy efficiency works including de-lamping and LED installations to its facilities.

Strathbogie Shire Mayor Cr Amanda McClaren said it was the first step in a major rollout of corporate greenhouse efficiencies across council-run buildings, which will include community recreation reserves, libraries, and halls and was partly funded by Sustainability Victoria’s Local Government Energy Saver initiative.

“These installations will see us cutting over $36,000 per annum in utilities, and avoiding emitting 146 tonnes CO2-e each year, which is substantial,” Cr McClaren said.

“Council intends to continue this good work, and continue to follow up on a number of energy audits it undertook last year.”

“This is just one element of Council’s long-term low-carbon strategy. We are looking to secure the future of our shire, particularly with the development of the Sustainable Strathbogie 2030 Strategy which sets out a blueprint for a resilient, well adapted, low carbon future.”

Owner of BD North East Electrics, Marcus “bulldog” Mackrell, who was selected as the installer, said he was pleased Council was hiring a local business for the installation.

“It really makes a difference when people see leadership from their Council, and they’ve been great to work with,” Mr Mackrell said.

“There’s been a lot of solar going up in the shire lately. The government rebates and the Bogie Bulk Buy have really made a difference to solar business locally.”