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.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020