HAWKESBURY Council will extend its solar infrastructure to include a new solar farm at the South Windsor Wastewater Treatment Facility.
The plan is part of Council’s long term sustainability goals to reduce emissions and save energy.
Mayor of Hawkesbury, Councillor Barry Calvert, said local councils have an increasing role in leading the way on climate change.
“Planning for a sustainable future is part of delivering on our Community Strategic Plan 2017-2036, which includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” he said.
“The Hawkesbury Solar Program will install 600kW in total solar power that will generate electricity for Council sites and provide cost savings for the community.
“The money saved through reduced energy usage will ultimately allow Council to invest this money in better infrastructure and services for the community.”
Councillor Calvert encouraged more community members to install solar panels.
“By using a combination of energy saving devices, reducing energy use and installing solar panels, we can all save money and create a more sustainable future,” he said.
Thirteen sites have been chosen for the Hawkesbury Solar Project: Deerubbin Centre Precinct, Hawkesbury Leisure and Learning Centre, Hawkesbury Regional Museum, Indoor Sports Stadium, North Richmond Community Centre, Oasis Fitness and Aquatic Centre, Richmond Branch Library, Wastewater Treatment Facilities at South Windsor and McGraths Hill, South Windsor Family Centre, Wilberforce Depot, Council Administration Precinct, and Hawkesbury City Waste Management Facility at South Windsor.
The mayor said site selection is an important part of the solar program.
“We’ve strategically selected these sites based on energy use patterns that match sunlight hours and roof top availability so that these solar systems provide optimum power output for Council use whilst delivering the best energy cost savings,” he said.
Council is calling for tenders for the supply and installation of grid-connected solar power systems for all 13 sites by mid 2019, as well as maintenance of the systems for up to five years.
The first systems for the Hawkesbury Solar Program are planned to be installed around December this year.
Council’s solar program is part of the Western Sydney Light Years Ahead Program initiated by the Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils.
Visit www.lightyearsahead.com.au for information.