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This article was published on Friday, 20 May, 2016. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

How Council is saving ratepayers’ money and the planet

The Plan is an action from the Greater Shepparton Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2014-2030 which builds on 15 years of commitment and action.

Greater Shepparton City Council Director Sustainable Development Johann Rajaratnam said over the last 10 years there has been a reduction in energy use but costs have continued to increase.

“The Plan will see the implementation of a 250kWh solar system, energy audit suggested actions undertaken and integrating sustainability and environment considerations into all capital works projects.”

“The Plan is critical to protect Council against rises in the cost of energy through establishing significant reductions in energy consumption and improving energy efficiency,” he said.

“Council has already undertaken a lot of work in this area including remote sensor irrigation, energy efficient appliances and equipment, sustainability training, solar lighting and photo voltaic panels, LED lighting in most council managed buildings and the installation of the co-gen plant at Aquamoves,” said Mr Rajaratnam. “We include environmental and sustainability considerations in tenders and contracts.”

“Our energy consumption is declining and we will continue to work to a target of 20 per cent reduction in emissions by 2020 by not only changing processes and behaviours but through specific projects and investment,” he said.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor Dinny Adem said the Energy Reduction Plan is a key initiative for Council and will contribute to minimising the impact of climate change. “The Plan will cement Greater Shepparton as a regional leader in addressing emissions and reducing energy costs while adding to Australia’s contribution,” said Cr Adem.

“It will also save Council money in energy bills and ensure ratepayers’ money is being spent on service delivery.”