Solar upgrades complete

Published on 21 June 2019

The installation of solar panel systems and other energy saving initiatives at seven Gannawarra Shire Council-managed buildings is now complete.

During the first half of 2019, works have occurred to install solar panel systems at buildings throughout Cohuna, Kerang and Koondrook as part of Council’s participation in the Local Government Energy Saver Program.

The last of these works were completed earlier this month at the Kerang Swimming Pool, which involved the installation of a 10kW solar panel system and the replacement of hot water systems.

Both the Kerang Memorial Hall and Sir John Gorton Library received a 10kW solar panel system thanks to the program, with 5kW systems connected to roofing at the Cohuna Pre-School, Cohuna Swimming Pool and Koondrook Senior Citizens Rooms. The Gateway to Gannawarra Visitor Centre also expanded its solar power capability following the installation of a 5kW solar PV expansion setup.

Retrofitting fluorescent and incandescent lighting to LED varieties, as well as connecting lighting at some of the venue’s bathrooms to motion sensors also formed part of the works completed across the seven community venues.

“The Gannawarra Shire Council Plan 2017-2021 outlines Council’s goal of reducing its carbon footprint by 10 per cent during this period. These works ensure Council is well on its way to achieving this objective,” Mayor Lorraine Learmonth said.

“The solar power systems and lighting will also save Council over $16,000 in electricity costs per year, which means more budget resources will be available for maintaining services and assets the community relies on.”