The Andrews Labor Government is supporting regional Victorians to make the switch to renewable energy, saving them thousands in energy costs and boosting community energy capacity.

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Lily D’Ambrosio today announced the Government’s seven Community Power Hubs have provided 0.75 megawatts of renewable energy to local community facilities and businesses.

The Hubs are having an exponential impact with 19 projects across the state which have benefited over 80,000 Victorians.

Cost savings will fund the development and delivery of more community energy projects in the region and amplify the emission reductions achieved.

Thanks to the program, the Bendigo Woollen Mills – a historic coal-fired power station and Australia’s largest manufacturer and distributor of knitting yarn – is now generating clean energy.

Through the Loddon Mallee Community Power Hub, the Government invested $128,000 to install a 96 kW solar system of 214 rooftop solar panels at the historic site.

The new solar power system is helping the Woollen Mill save on energy costs. Savings will be used to repay the cost of the solar system to the Loddon Mallee Community Power Hub.

The Bendigo Woollen Mills project is one of five in the region, which include installing solar systems at the Echuca Neighbourhood House, Hazeldenes poultry and processing facilities at Laanecoorie and Bald Hills, and the Mildura South Sporting Precinct.

The Community Power Hubs also provide their local communities with advice and ideas about how businesses and community organisations can become more energy efficient.

The seven Community Power Hubs are funded as part of the Government’s $1.6 billion clean energy package, and include two in metropolitan Melbourne and one in each of the regions of Hume, Grampians, Loddon Mallee, Barwon South West and Gippsland.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“Our Community Power Hubs are creating jobs across the state, driving regional investment, and cutting energy bills as we work to halve emissions by 2030.”

“From coal to solar – Bendigo Woollen Mills tells the story of this state’s switch to renewables. Our community-owned and operated Hubs are bringing local renewable energy projects to life across Victoria, having an exponential impact on businesses and whole communities.”

Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards

“We’re helping local businesses reduce their ongoing energy bills and carbon emissions, with the financial benefits staying in the community.”