Greenhouse emissions from its buildings have marginally increased and its power bill has spiked by $100,000, but Brimbank council believes its goal of trimming emissions by 20 per cent inside two years is making good progress.
The council’s greenhouse reduction strategy has so far returned a seven per cent drop on 2011 levels, and the aim is to reduce its emissions by 50 per cent by 2022-23.
Brimbank chairman of administrators John Watson said the council was committed to reducing its emissions while saving the community money.
Greens MP for the western metropolitan region Colleen Hartland said the council’s work should be applauded and the program’s cost wasn’t a concern at this early stage.
“The problem with rate cutting is that these are the kinds of programs that take money to achieve. They’re expensive to start off with, but it’s good work and it’s necessary,” Ms Hartland said.
The council has achieved its emissions drop by cutting 13 per cent and four per cent, respectively, from street light and fleet emissions, although its building emissions have increased by half a per cent.
So far, 8000 street lights have been replaced with more energy-efficient globes with a further 3500 to be installed next year.
Administrator Jane Nathan said she was confident the council would achieve its dual targets.
The council’s energy costs rose from $3.5 million in 2011 to $3.6 million in the past financial year, with the slight increase due to factors including growing gas and electricity prices.
By Samantha Walker
