Councils given access to new $100 million energy efficiency fund

Local councils will be able to apply for money to make swimming pools, sporting grounds and courts more energy efficient, under a $100 million Federal Government program.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the Community Energy Upgrades Fund in a speech to local government representative today.

Under the scheme, councils can upgrade pool heating systems, lighting for sports grounds and courts, and fund new storage technology at community centres and libraries.

Advising that said he was pleased about the number of local governments that had made commitments to reach net-zero emissions, Prime Minister Albanese stated “our government is determined to seize this once-in-a-generation opportunity and transform Australia into a renewable energy superpower.”

“While always holding to our promise to leave no one behind.”

Planning to have the program running before the end of the year, the Federal Government will partner with the Australian Local Government Association to get the maximum value for every project.

Prime Minister Albanese (pictured) added “our nation will only grow and prosper if all three levels of government - local, state and federal - work together to deliver policies and programs for the community.”

Matt Burnett, Mayor of Gladstone in central Queensland and Vice President Matt Burnett of the Australian Local Government Association welcomed the investment, noting “you want to reach net zero by 2050, you’ve got to have council support to do that.”

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