By Tate Papworth
A multi-deck carpark in Sunshine is the latest Brimbank building to make the move to solar energy.
An 82-kilowatt solar system has been installed on the top level of the council-owned carpark on George Street.
The power generated by the solar panels will provide nearly all the electricity required for the carpark as well as powering electric vehicles set to be added to the Brimbank council’s fleet.
Brimbank mayor Georgina Papafotiou said the solar installation was a big step towards helping the council reach its renewable energy goals.
“This is a great initiative that will provide free, clean and renewable electricity, the equivalent to the annual power needs of 26 houses,” Cr Papafotiou said.
“This initiative will help council achieve goals like sourcing 100 per cent renewable energy by 2021 for all council buildings and street lights.
“Our target of 50 per cent reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2023 is also on track thanks to initiatives like this.”
The solar system will power the carpark’s lifts, lighting and equipment and will act as a roof over 23 car spaces on the top level of the carpark.
A dual-port electrical vehicle charging station has been added to the carpark, which the council says will help cater for the expansion of its electric car fleet.
Since 2016, the council has undertaken a major solar rollout, installing solar panels at 34 council-owned buildings.
The panels currently generate almost one megawatt of clean energy, which the council says saves it about $270,000 in electricity costs each year.
The council is in the process of establishing a set of strategies to tackle climate change.
At a December meeting it endorsed a draft climate emergency plan to be put out for public consultation.
Feedback on the plan can be provided up until February 26 at: www. brimbank.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay
