NILLUMBIK: Net zero in sight
Nillumbik Council has secured a $2.5 million grant to go all-electric at Eltham Leisure Centre, as part of the Federal Government’s Community Energy Upgrades Fund.
“This project is an essential step in Council achieving its net-zero emissions target by 2030,” said a Nillumbik Shire representative.
The leisure centre is Nillumbik Council’s most-used facility, as well as its highest energy user.
By replacing the centre’s ageing gas boilers with high-efficiency electric heat pumps, Council will immediately cut the facility’s overall carbon emissions by an estimated 33 per cent or 631 tonnes each year.
Moving from gas to electric allows the purchase of 100 per cent renewable energy, which would cut emissions to zero.
Nillumbik is one of 10 Victorian councils to receive a grant in the second round of the Fund.
Nillumbik Mayor Cr John Dumaresq (pictured) said Council would match the Federal Government grant and described it as a worthwhile investment that would deliver long-term cost savings.
“I’m thrilled that our much-loved Eltham Leisure Centre will play a big part in reducing carbon emissions across Council’s operations,” Cr Dumaresq said.
“Making the switch to all-electric at the leisure centre is essential to achieving net-zero emissions by 2030 for all of Council’s operations. Just another great reason to head to Eltham Leisure Centre.”