- Published:
- Saturday 30 January 2016
The Andrews Labor Government is helping Victorian lifesaving clubs save money on their electricity bills and shift to renewable energy by providing grants for solar panels.
Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio announced the $500,000 program today at the Port Melbourne Life Saving Club.
The Community Renewables Solar Grants Initiative allows Victorian lifesaving clubs to apply for grants to install solar panel systems at their club.
Electricity represents a significant cost to Life Saving Victoria, so these grants will enable them to allocate more of their funds to day to day operations.
Life Saving Victoria clubs can apply for grants from today with the installation of solar systems expected to get underway from March 2016.
The Community Renewables Solar Grants Initiative is among a number of programs for community groups and businesses that will form part of the Labor Government’s Renewable Energy Action Plan to be released this year.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio
“This is about helping Victorian lifesaving clubs save money on their energy bills and driving renewable energy.”
“By partnering with Life Saving Victoria on this program, we can help our lifesaving clubs cut their energy costs and increase renewable energy generation in Victoria.
Quotes attributable to Member for Albert Park Martin Foley
“It’s great to launch this initiative at the Port Melbourne Life Saving Club and I look forward to seeing solar panels on the club’s roof in the coming months.”
“I encourage all local lifesaving clubs to apply for solar panel grants so they can spend less money on energy bills and more time keeping Victorians safe at our beaches and waterways.”
Quotes attributable to Life Saving Victoria CEO Nigel Taylor
“Electricity represents a major operating cost to all of our clubs. By having solar panels installed, this will provide significant financial relief to our organisation.”
“This is great news and allows more funds to go to what the community expects us to do – patrol our beaches and waterways to ensure the safety of all Victorians who use it.”