Sarah Oliver
As part of its plan towards a zero net carbon emissions target, Melton council is installing more than 3000 solar panels on key council buildings.
Council’s environmental plan includes a goal to achieve zero net carbon emissions by 2040 which the solar panels will contribute to.
The plan aims to reduce energy costs, mitigate climate change impacts, and future-proof community infrastructure.
Under the project, 850 killerwatts of solar panels will be installed at nine top energy consuming sites across the city.
These sites include the Melton Waves leisure centre, Caroline Springs library and Melton civic centre.
Installation of 90 panels at MacPherson Park Pavilion will begin in January next year.
Melton mayor Goran Kesic said the project was an important part of the council’s environment plan.
“I’m proud to see this project begin. It’s something that will have a lasting impact for generations to come,” Cr Kesic said.
“Not only are we reducing carbon emissions, we’re reducing operating costs and future-proofing local buildings.
“We’re harnessing solar energy during the day and connecting to 100 per cent renewable energy at night. It is a really positive outcome for our community and for our environment.
“It also adds to work council has already done to create sustainable buildings, with Melton library, Western BACE and the new Cobblebank stadium prime examples.”
The remaining solar panels are scheduled to be installed across Melton by April 2022.
