Tweed Shire
In light of scientific warnings that if global warming is limited to between 1.5 and 2 degrees by 2100 that emissions must peak before 2020, and then rapidly decline, we must all make this the focus of efforts at this point in our history.
It is the primary responsibility of local government to keep the community safe and we must be united in this.
That is why I am so pleased Tweed Shire Council is one of 100 councils across Australia united on climate action through the Cities Power Partnership.
All levels of government, the community and media must rise to this challenge that is upon us right now, and play our utmost part in ensuring the wonderful sustainable future, that we know we can achieve if we all pull together on this.
I’m also pleased to report Tweed Shire Council is on-track to achieve its target of self-generating 25 per cent of Council’s electricity demand from renewable sources by 2022, and 50 per cent by 2025. But there’s so much more to do and we must not let up on this vital issue.
Council has chosen the following pledges
Use council resources to support the uptake of renewable energy.
Install renewable energy (solar PV and battery storage) on council buildings.
Support community facilities to access renewable energy through incentives, support or grants.
Tweed Shire
What council has achieved in the past in energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable transport or broader sustainability
In 2018, Tweed Shire Council has added more than double its existing rooftop solar on Council facilities. By the end of 2018 Council will be host to 780kW of solar across 15 facilities, generating 6% of its electricity needs from clean, renewable energy. Council’s achievements have come about thanks to the hard work of its facility managers, holding Council’s electricity use steady even as Council takes on new facilities and expands its services to the community. Transport fuel use in Council’s fleet has also decreased each year over the past 3 years despite growth in staff and vehicle numbers during that time.
What council hopes to achieve in the future in energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable transport or broader sustainability
Significant technical analysis has been completed to prepare a Renewable Energy Action Plan (REAP) for Council facilities. Energy efficiency and renewable energy projects have been described that will result in relief in carbon emissions and costs associated with Council’s 22GWh/pa electricity demand and $5 million annual electricity bill. Council’s REAP has costed an achievable workplan of energy efficiency and renewable energy projects that will result in 25% of Council’s electricity being self-generated from solar by 2022, and 50% from more solar and battery storage by 2025.
What council hopes to gain from being a member of the Cities Power Partnership
Council hopes to benefit from greater resource sharing, support and acknowledgement for Council’s efforts and commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improvement energy efficiency and promote greater renewable energy uptake.