Published on Thursday, 27 February 2025 at 10:59:36 AM
Nearly $800,000 will be invested into rooftop solar panels on four key Council buildings in East Fremantle, thanks to a $398,212 funding boost from the Federal Government.
The Town of East Fremantle was one of five local governments in Western Australia to receive a Community Energy Upgrade Fund grant from the Federal Government last week.
The funds will be used to install rooftop solar panels at the Town Hall, Dovenby House, Operations Depot and for a solar and battery storage system at the East Fremantle Community Park.
Mayor Jim O’Neill said the Town was grateful for the support from the Federal Government and in particular the Federal member for Fremantle Josh Wilson to improve sustainability of key buildings across the Town.
“This is a significant investment from the Federal Government and will be matched by the Town over several years,” he said.
“It allows us to accelerate the implementation of renewable energy infrastructure on Town assets as identified in our Climate Emergency Strategy and Action Plan 2023 to 2033.
“We thank the Federal Government for its support.”
In 2023, the Town committed to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
Analysis of the Town’s emissions inventory has identified strategic actions it can undertake over the next seven years to reduce its emissions significantly.
The installation of solar panels to key buildings was deemed a key action in the Town’s Climate Emergency Strategy and Action Plan.
It will also significantly reduce carbon emissions and over time, the cost savings on electricity bills will help fund other climate-related actions.
Mayor O’Neill said the Town was focused on becoming self-reliant from a renewable energy perspective, in line with the State Government’s emission reduction targets.
“The Strategic Vision for Energy under the Town’s Climate Emergency Strategy not only commits to net zero emissions, and transitioning to renewable energy by 2030, it also encourages community members to transition to zero emissions. The contribution from Council staff and members of our Climate Action Reference Group reinforces the importance of working with the community to achieve positive climate outcomes,” he added.
“By leading by example and diligently reducing the Town’s own carbon footprint, we strive to empower every member of the community to actively participate in the transition to a low-carbon lifestyle.”
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