East Grampians Health Service’s Ararat campus is the latest local organisation to benefit from the installation of solar PV on its buildings thanks to the Victorian Government’s $2.7 billion Building Works package.

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio announced the project delivered in partnership with Ballarat Renewable Energy and Zero Emissions Inc (BREAZE) − one of nine in the Grampians region to receive a share of $1.1 million to install solar power on buildings.

The program − which also supports the installation of batteries – is reducing energy costs for local organisations, slashing carbon emissions and creating jobs.

A 174kw system will be installed on the roof of a new undercover carpark generating energy for the Health Service and reducing carbon emissions. It will also transform the current visitor carpark into undercover parking, providing shade and weather protection for visitors.

Construction will begin in October and will take around four months to complete.

Installation has been completed at eight other sites across the region, including McCallum Disability Services, Ballarat Table Tennis Association, Ballarat Regional Industries, Ballarat Squash and Racquetball Club, Ballarat Child and Family Services, Ballarat General Cemetery, Uniting Ballarat and Old Colonists’ Association.

The Government’s $2.7 billion Building Works package is driving new economic activity and creating thousands of new jobs across the state.

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

“We’re thrilled to be investing in local projects that empower community organisations, help us meet our ambitious emissions reduction targets and create jobs.”

“Our investment in renewable energy is allowing organisations to take charge of their energy consumption and direct the savings back to the community to help reduce power bills.” 

Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jaala Pulford

“It is wonderful to see so many local organisations benefiting from a program that helps them reduce costs and helps us tackle climate change.”

Quote attributable to BREAZE  President Mary Debrett

“This program demonstrates the community benefits of Social Solar – local jobs, cost savings for those who most need it, and reduced carbon emissions, now a global imperative.”