Shire Sites Switch to Renewable Energy

Following unanimous support from Council, the Shire will switch to 100% renewables for the largest of its energy accounts from 1 February 2022.

Green power will be delivered through an aggregated electricity agreement brokered by the WA Local Government Association (WALGA), accessing renewable energy from three WA wind farms in Albany, Emu Downs and Collgar.

Katie Biggs, Sustainability Planning Officer at the Shire of Augusta Margaret River is proud of the new deal.

“A key action in our Climate Action Plan is the purchase of green power. Shifting to 100% renewable energy is the single biggest step the Shire can make towards achieving its 2030 net zero target,’ she said.

Nick Logan, the Shire’s Director for Sustainable Development and Infrastructure agrees that this is a significant step forward.

“We know that reducing our carbon emissions is a vital issue for our community and we’ll do everything we can to drive our emissions down. We’re determined to continue to find new and innovative ways to support positive climate action.”

The agreement was also supported by fiscal considerations.

“By working together with other Local Governments across the state, our Shire will benefit from reduced costs due to the ability to pool our purchasing power,” added Mr. Logan.

The new agreement will provide green power for around 65% of the Shire’s electricity needs with a view to transitioning smaller sites and streetlights to renewables next. The project is the first stage of a larger Energy Sustainability and Renewables Project being coordinated through the WA Local Government Association.

Future stages will include electric vehicles, energy efficiency and load shifting.