Ballarat-based community services are reaping the benefits of installing solar systems on their buildings as part of the Victoria Government’s $2.7 billion Building Works package.

The new solar systems were funded under Victoria Government’s $10.3 million Solar on Public Buildings Program announced in May 2020 to save volunteer community groups thousands of dollars on their energy costs.

$1.1 million has been provided to install solar and battery generated power to eight community buildings and sites across the Grampians region.

The sites were identified by Ballarat Renewable Energy and Zero Emissions Inc (BREAZE).  McCallum Disability Services was the first to benefit from completion in November 2020, installing solar on social housing sites to reduce energy costs.

In addition, the five program recipients that have more recently completed their installations are:

• Ballarat Table Tennis Association – 24kW solar system
  • Onsite at their stadium in Dowling Street, Wendouree to offset costs and provide better facilities for members
• Ballarat Regional Industries – 42kW solar system
  • Onsite at their office building in Neerim Crescent, Wendouree to offset costs for workshop site for disability services provider and to enhance job opportunities
• Ballarat Squash and Racquetball Club – 33kW solar system
  • Onsite at their stadium in Dowling Street, Wendouree to offset costs and provide better facilities for members
• Ballarat Child and Family Services – 22kW solar system
• Ballarat General Cemetery – 27.6-kilowatt hour battery (kWh)
  • The battery will be powered by a 99-kilowatt solar system providing power to operate irrigation pumps, the chapel, crematorium, administration building and ground staff equipment, and will provide power during power outages

Uniting Care Australia is on track for completion of solar installations in Ballarat and the Wimmera across its 49 properties by June this year.

The Old Colonists’ Association of Ballarat has commenced installation of 2kW solar systems on 37 cottages at the Charles Anderson Grove Retirement Village, providing cost savings of low socio-economic pensioners.

Quotes attributable to Member for Wendouree, Juliana Addison

“We’re thrilled to support projects that empower community organisations, lower their operating costs and at the same time create local jobs.

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

“Solar panels are delivering significant savings for Victorians and helping to reduce emissions. Victorians are showing they are wanting to be part of the switch to cleaner, cheaper energy.”

Quote attributable to Mary Debrett, President, BREAZE

‘Co-administered by DELWP and BREAZE, 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.”