As part of its commitment to environmental sustainability, the City of Boroondara has agreed to join a council buying group to purchase 100% green, renewable energy.
At the 26 August 2019 Council meeting, Councillors unanimously endorsed Boroondara's participation in a tender with other councils in Victoria to purchase renewable electricity. A local government group consortium of over 45 councils, will use their combined buying power to engage with electricity retailers to secure 100% clean electricity via a Power Purchase Agreement.
Under Boroondara's Our Low Carbon Future Strategy, which was adopted in 2009, Council committed to reducing its carbon footprint and set a goal to have a 30-40% reduction from our 2007-2008 emission levels by 2020.
A Power Purchase Agreement for 100% clean electricity would ensure Boroondara achieves its emissions target and provides long term pricing certainty with the potential for financial savings.
"Participation in the Power Purchase Agreement will assist Council to reduce our carbon emissions while providing financial certainty", said Mayor Cr Jane Addis.
The consortium of more than 45 local governments in Victoria has assessed options for purchasing renewable energy using combined buying power for an 8-10 year arrangement.
"Boroondara's participation in the tender to purchase renewable clean energy for up to 10 years through a Power Purchase Agreement shows our commitment to creating a sustainable future. This is one of many initiatives undertaken by Council in support of our environment", said Cr Addis.
Purchasing green, renewable energy will allow Boroondara to continue offering high quality services and facilities while reducing our environmental impact.
The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) will manage the tender process on behalf of the group of local governments that have signed the agreement.
The tender process is designed to achieve a financially beneficial outcome for the group of councils.
Once finalised, the Power Purchase Agreement is expected to provide both environmental and social benefits. The agreement will reduce Council's use of electricity from fossil fuel sources which contribute to air pollution and climate change.
