Wyndham City Council is leading the way as one of 46 Victorian Councils to form the largest ever emissions reduction project by local government.
VECO - the Victorian Energy Collaboration, is a collective effort of councils from across the state, seeking a new electricity contract for council operations that is sourced from 100 per cent renewable energy sources.
The new contract will commence July 2021 and will run for 9.5 years.
Through its Environment & Sustainability Strategy (2016-2040) and Greenhouse Action Plan (2018-2021), Wyndham City Council has committed to reducing its corporate greenhouse emissions by 12 per cent by 2020, and 95 per cent by 2040.
To date, Council's primary approach for achieving reduction in emissions has been through energy efficiency (building and streetlighting) and rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) projects.
Wyndham City's Climate Futures & Environment Portfolio holder Cr Robert Szatkowski said whilst these projects have proven to be very effective in reducing Council's energy costs and emissions, working towards the 95 per cent reduction target requires a 'decarbonisation' of Council's grid sourced electricity supply.
"Council recognises that the climate is changing, and that together we must take action. We are committed to showing leadership and taking serious action on climate change," Cr Szatkowski said.
"Being a part of the VECO project will reduce Wyndham City's corporate greenhouse gas emissions (excluding the RDF) by approximately 82 per cent and put us on the path to carbon neutrality."
"This is the largest ever emissions reduction project undertaken by local government in Australia, aggregating 45 per cent of all Victorian council electricity to switch to 100 per cent renewable energy. We are so proud to be a part of it."
"Through this project we will be able to reduce Council's energy bills, increase energy stability and help reduce retail energy prices across the state."
The project was initiated and facilitated by Darebin City Council and the Victorian Greenhouse Alliances along with 46 councils which recognise the benefits of renewable energy for local economies, job creation, environmental purposes and reducing energy costs.
