The Victorian Government’s $9.2 million Solar on Public Buildings Program is being rolled out during the next two years, dedicated to supporting community organisations by reducing energy costs and cutting emissions.
Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said it was “wonderful” to see local volunteer committees benefiting from the program.
“It is a terrific outcome for communities, the environment, and our hard-working volunteer committees who are the backbone of our small communities across northern Victoria,” she said.
The program covers the costs of site assessments, along with the supply and installation of solar power systems on volunteer-run public buildings, located on Department of Environment Land, Water and Planning-managed land.
More than 300 public buildings in Victoria are being assessed for suitability of solar installation and more than 200 energy audits have been carried out on selected sites around the state.
Energy, Environment and Climate Change Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said the investment in renewable energy and solar panels was helping to create local jobs.
“This is a great example of how we’re delivering real action on climate change in regional Victoria by investing in local projects that will help communities build thriving and sustainable futures,” she said.
An energy monitoring module will also be integrated into the design to monitor solar system performance in real time, and battery installations will be considered for some sites.
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