Our journey
What Georges River Council has achieved in the past in energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable transport or broader sustainability
Georges River Council reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability at the Council meeting on 25 November 2019, where Council set a target of achieving 100% renewable energy and net zero emissions for Council operations by 2025. The Council is planning to achieve these targets by implementing energy efficiency and renewable energy projects across Council assets and by changing staff behaviour through education on waste and commuting and also by promoting carbon sequestration by increasing tree canopy. Council resolved to provide in-principle support for a net zero emissions target by 2025 or as soon as practicable, through implementing a framework to reduce carbon emissions based on mitigation initiatives and innovative technology. The final endorsement of a specific year for reaching net zero emissions will be confirmed following a report from the General Manager that investigates the funding implications of the target.
Other actions achieved by council in the past:
- Council has several solar panels installed on its sites such as libraries and the Council Works Depot at Carlton. We are in the process of arranging panels on additional buildings and new developments.
To further reduce our dependence on non-renewable energy, Council has procured 20% of its electricity from renewable sources, and hopes to increase this over time. - We strive to make our buildings and services as energy efficient as possible to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Some examples include installation of LED lighting and investment in low energy consuming fixtures in new developments.
- Council is promoting the Our Energy Future program to advise residents about solar energy opportunities and energy efficient measures that will result in savings to their energy bills.
What Council hopes to achieve in the future in energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable transport or broader sustainability
Georges River Council’s mission is to be a leader in delivering outstanding results for the community, including working towards becoming a resilient and sustainable city.
We have recently developed an Energy and Water Management Plan proposing recommendations for increased energy efficiency at Council’s top consuming sites, which, when implemented, should result in at least 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
Council has committed to another year of delivering the Our Energy Future program, which will focus on building the capacity of community groups to disseminate information about solar panels and energy efficiency opportunities for households.
Council is also looking towards increasing the availability and uptake of hybrid vehicles within its fleet.
What council hopes to gain from being a member of the Cities Power Partnership
Climate change is a complex challenge that requires action from all areas of society, and all levels of government. Georges River Council is looking forward to collaborating with other local government leaders in sustainability through the Cities Power Partnership, by sharing ideas on cutting edge emissions reductions technologies and other climate change mitigation strategies. Through the program we want to celebrate our past achievements in energy efficiency and renewable energy promotion, and also be accountable to our future commitments.