2022-03-09
To help the drive towards a zero emissions future, a new ACT Government program is supporting local community clubs in upgrading their buildings and equipment to increase energy efficiency and reduce their emissions.
The Community Clubs Building Energy Efficiency program provides eligible clubs with rebates of up to $75,000 on an equal contribution basis to upgrade to more energy efficient products and systems. Sixteen clubs have taken the first step of registering for the program, and eight of those have now had assessments completed at their premises.
“As the ACT continues its journey to being net zero in 2045, it is important that we ensure our community clubs are a part of that journey,” Minister for Emissions Reduction Shane Rattenbury said. “This program supports community clubs to make energy and cost-efficient choices so they can continue playing their important role in the community.
“We know that energy bills are one of the biggest overheads for clubs, so this program will assist clubs to lower their bills by supporting them to install products like rooftop solar and battery storage systems, as well as upgrading inefficient appliances such as air conditioners and hot water systems to energy efficient electric systems.”
Following an assessment at how energy is used and where improvements can be made, clubs receive a detailed report with advice on which products may be of most benefit to help them cut energy use and costs. The Australian Croatian Club was the first club to register for the Program and receive their energy assessment.
After a site assessment was conducted, the club was provided an energy assessment report which identified upgrades the club could undertake to improve the energy efficiency of their building and reduce their bills.
The energy assessment report identified that several upgrades could save the club up to $6,400 annually on their energy costs, including upgrading to an energy efficient system, installing ceiling insulation and double-glazed windows.
Quotes attributable to Dom Polegubic, Treasurer of Australian Croatian Club:
“We are very excited to be part of this new program. Taking action on climate change is one way we can support our community now and into the future. The process to take part in the program was really straightforward, and the free energy assessment gave us an insight into what changes can be made to improve the club’s energy efficiency. We are looking forward to seeing the difference that the new air conditioning unit will make for our guests, and our bills.”
The Energy Efficiency program is part of the ACT Government’s ongoing project to reduce gambling harm by supporting community clubs to diversify their business model and reduce reliance on poker machine revenue. With improved energy efficiency and reduced energy costs, community clubs will be better placed to pursue opportunities to diversify away from poker machine revenue.
The Community Clubs Building Energy Efficiency program was established in 2021 after $5 million was allocated in the 2020-21 ACT Budget. More information can be found on the Everyday Climate Choices website.