Our journey
What council has achieved in the past in energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable transport or broader sustainability
Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council (QPRC) recognises that climate change is a serious and significant issue and is committed to reducing its corporate footprint and supporting the community in addressing climate change. In March 2020 Council adopted both the QPRC Council Operations Climate Change Action Plan and QPRC Community Climate Change Action Plans (2020-2030). Both plans highlight pathways and opportunities to make significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to climate resilience through a cost-effective program of actions. The 131 actions are organised into a number of categories including energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable transportation, procurement and leadership.
Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council has always demonstrated strong leadership in the sustainability sector, particularly with respect to energy efficiency and renewable energy. Since 2012 Council has installed over 430kWh of behind- the-meter solar and delivered over 2,101,506 kWh of energy efficiency savings funded through Council’s alternate energy reserve.
More recently Council has invested in upgrading 5487 streetlights to energy efficient LEDs, adopted the QPRC Urban Forest Strategy to help our community combat urban heat and reduce energy costs, and installed several solar-battery systems onto RFS stations and community halls to ensure energy resilience. Council is also presently working with a number of NSW councils to secure a long-term renewable energy purchase power agreement to ensure that energy used in Council operations is clean and green.
Council is also leading the way when it comes to sustainable buildings and infrastructure. Council’s Sustainable Design Policy for Council Buildings requires showcase projects over $2,000,000 to achieve ‘5 star’ third party sustainability certification. To this effect QPRC currently has the highest proportion of Green Star registered and certified buildings in non-metropolitan southern NSW.
What council hopes to achieve in the future in energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable transport or broader sustainability
Council will continue to strive towards achieving the communities vision of a “clean, green community that cherishes its natural and physical character” as identified in the QPRC Community Strategic Plan. Specifically, Council will continue to implement the identified actions within the QPRC Climate Change Action Plans with the aim of achieving significant greenhouse gas emissions abatement over time along with substantial improvements in climate change resilience and preparedness. Furthermore, Council will continue to review and strengthen our sustainability framework and policies in particular emissions reduction targets and reporting.
What council hopes to gain from being a member of the Cities Power Partnership
Engaging in the Cities Power Partnership provides further opportunity for Council to take strong climate change action while actively engaging with the community and other councils throughout Australia. Joining the Cities Power Partnership will also aid Council in reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing our reputation, delivering cost savings, establishing resilience, and creating a greater sense of pride within Council and amongst the community.