URGENT UPDATE: Aitken Hill Community Centre has officially become the first council facility in Australia to transition to a fully electrified system. The landmark launch took place today, September 24, with Mayor Jarrod Bell joining community members and staff to celebrate this significant milestone.
The centre has permanently switched off gas, now relying entirely on renewable electricity powered by solar panels installed on its roof. This groundbreaking change is projected to save the council approximately $4,700 annually in energy costs while reducing carbon emissions by 15 tonnes each year.
Mayor Bell emphasized the dual impact of the project, stating, “This major achievement at Aitken Hill Community Centre speaks to two important issues currently impacting our community – the effects of climate change and soaring energy costs.” He highlighted that the shift to all-electric systems not only addresses climate concerns but also alleviates financial burdens on residents.
“While gas used to be the cheaper option, that’s no longer the case,” Bell added. The Hume Council is committed to expanding this initiative, planning to electrify all new council buildings and gradually convert existing facilities.
The Aitken Hill upgrade is the first of many expected conversions. The council reports that solar panels across more than 130 council facilities are already yielding significant results, leading to $800,000 in annual savings and a reduction of roughly 4,500 tonnes of carbon emissions.
This transition marks a pivotal step in Hume’s environmental strategy, showcasing a firm commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management. As the community embraces this change, residents can look forward to cleaner, greener energy solutions that will enhance their quality of life.
Stay tuned for further updates on other electrification projects as Hume Council leads the way in sustainable energy practices. Share this news with your community and celebrate this innovative step towards a more sustainable future!
