The Latrobe Valley Energy and Growth Program (LVEGP) is also designed to help communities to decrease emissions and become more energy resilient.
The Victorian Government said communities in the Latrobe Valley are receiving valuable cost-of-living support as they embrace new localised renewable energy projects.
Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio, showcased three LVEGP projects that are designed to help Latrobe Valley communities lower their bills, decrease their emissions and become more energy resilient.
As part of the program, Gippsland Climate Change Network received $317,368 towards the 276kW solar system on the roof of the Yallambee Traralgon Village for the Aged. The panels have generated more than 352,000kW of renewable electricity, saving residents $88,165 off their bills in its first year and preventing more than 350t of emissions.
The Yarram Recreation Reserve was awarded $180,000 to install the Secure Back-Up Power Supply Project solar and battery system, comprising of a 126kW battery storage system and 36kW rooftop solar PV on the SES building at the Yarram Rec Reserve, doubling the existing 30kW of solar already installed.
The system is suitable for supplying back-up power during outages and providing emergency services with power, as well as providing cost savings to the Recreation Reserve Committee.
As part of the program, Lardner Park in Gippsland has been hosting the Floating Solar Project, a 50kW floating solar system that is saving more than $1,000 a month as an innovative source of renewable energy.
Funded with $209,149, the project is expected to help conserve water through reduced evaporation and algae growth. The evaporative cooling from the lake also increases the panels output by ten per cent.
The program supports community and industry projects that increase the uptake of renewable energy generation, create and support renewable energy jobs and drive social, community and economic benefits in the Latrobe Valley.
Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio, said, “We’re supporting the Valley’s renewable energy future with projects that reduce energy bills for locals and help create skilled jobs for the next generation.”
Victorian Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh said, “Eastern Victoria has extensive renewable energy resource potential, deep energy and engineering expertise, and a reputation as the centre of Victoria’s energy sector.”
Victorian Minister for Water and Housing, Harriet Shing, said, “Residents are embracing renewable energy throughout the Valley and are receiving the benefits of cheaper renewable energy thanks to the program.”
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