New Deal To Reduce Emissions And Keep Water Affordable
03 May 2019
Victoria’s
water industry will lead
Australia with a new
renewable energy deal that will slash greenhouse
gas
emissions and keep Victorian water bills down.
Thirteen of Victoria’s water corporations have partnered to purchase
clean energy from the
Kiamal Solar Farm in north-west Victoria, at a
much cheaper rate than would be possible individually.
Minister for
Water Lisa Neville praised the initiative, which will allow water
corporations to purchase between 20 to 50 per cent of their total energy
needs – slashing carbon dioxide emissions by 80,000 tonnes every year.
The innovative venture is the first of its kind for Australia’s water
sector and will operate under a new organisation called
Zero Emissions
Water Ltd (ZEW).
The new deal is another example of industries across Victoria leading
the way on
climate change action, investing in renewable energy to
reduce their carbon footprint and help protect the
environment.
By combining to create a new organisation, the water corporations have
been able to negotiate a very competitive price on their solar
investment, which will allow them to maintain affordable bills for
customers.
The Andrews Labor Government has set an ambitious goal of achieving a 42
per cent reduction in the water sector’s emissions by 2025 and net-zero
emissions by 2050.
Melbourne’s four metropolitan water corporations are actively working to
achieve net-zero 20 years ahead of schedule, by 2030.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Water Lisa Neville
“We’ve seen the effects of climate change on our water storage levels,
which is why it’s more important than ever to create solutions that will
reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
“It’s great to see our state’s water corporations working together on
this innovative new model, which will not only help protect our
environment into the future but also keep water bills affordable for
Victorians.
Quotes attributable to Chair of Zero Emissions Water Paul
O’Donohue
“The security of Victoria’s water supply relies on our response to
climate change and this is a solution that will greatly reduce
greenhouse gas emissions.”
“The Victorian water industry is working together to meet renewable
energy targets whilst seeking to reduce costs for customers at a time
when the cost of living can feel unpredictable for some.”
--ENDS--
Source: Victorian Government - www.premier.vic.gov.au
Contact: N/A
External Links: N/A
Recent news by: Victorian Government