Inner West to lead the way in renewable energy

Inner West Council has committed to procuring 25% of its electricity needs from renewable sources through an innovative new power agreement. This commitment to renewable energy is one of the highest by a council in Australia.

Inner West Councillors voted unanimously to participate in the Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils’ Renewable Energy Power Purchase Agreement.

“The agreement has the potential to reduce Council’s exposure to a volatile electricity market, lower power costs and help us meet our greenhouse gas emissions targets,” said Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne.

Councillor Anna York, who moved the motion, said the agreement is a very exciting initiative that would place the Inner West at the forefront of councils sourcing clean power.

“It is critical for us to position our community and our Council as leaders in the area of renewable energy,” said Cr York.

“Not only is it our vision for this Council, but it reflects the vision our community has about the Inner West being an environmentally sustainable place to live and work.

“By signing up to this agreement, it is estimated that we can source power that is 10-15% cheaper than regular grid supplied electricity.

“And while we are making a significant investment in renewable energy, we are doing so in a financially responsible manner that will get the best outcomes for ratepayers,” added Cr York.

These agreements are a new approach to accessing clean power. They are also helping to drive new investment in renewable energy projects.

Under the agreement, Council can increase its share renewable power and reduce its exposure to non-renewable energy over an agreed timeframe.

A decision to sign off on the electricity contract will made in the week starting 23 April, with electricity generators providing Council with renewable energy from 1 July 2019.

Inner West Council has previously resolved to take a number of actions to position the Inner West as a leader in renewable energy.

In January, Inner West Council joined the Climate Council Cities Power Partnership, Australia’s largest network of local councils taking climate action.

“We have already taken significant steps with our greenhouse gas emission reduction plans,” said Mayor Byrne.

“The Inner West is now one of the most divested from fossil fuel funds of any Council in NSW, with more than 70% of its portfolio invested in non-fossil fuel funds.

“We are also committed to building a more sustainable Inner West by helping residents install and manage solar panels, exploring opportunities to establish a solar farm, and making the Parramatta River swimmable again,” said Mayor Byrne.

For further information, please contact John Roper on (02) 9392 5914.

Inner West to lead the way in renewable energy

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