Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre is making waves in the environmental space.
The $55-million facility, which is set to open in the second half of 2022, has been fitted with a range of energy efficient equipment to reduce on greenhouse gas emissions and save big on costs.
So far, a 99kW solar system has been installed on the roof of the Fitness and Aquatic Centre to energise pool equipment and high-efficiency LED lighting has been used throughout the building for their efficient and long-lasting ability. These energy efficient globes will use approximately 75 per cent less electricity and emit the same amount of light.
In addition to this, the Centre has been built with double glazing to assist with thermal insulation, and heat recovery systems and pool blankets will also be used to keep the pools warm, especially during the cooler months.
A large water storage tank (approximately 20,000 litres) has been installed to capture rainwater and this will be used for irrigation purposes, and two electric car charging stations are currently being installed.
Waves has also been fitted out with a high efficiency/ low maintenance filtration system and variable speed drive motors, that are friendly on energy usage.
“As part of our plans, we’ve identified energy improvements that can be made at Waves. This will reduce our reliance on high-use electricity, improve efficiency and save money that could be better spent elsewhere in our community,” Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Peter Gangemi said.
“This is not only a giant leap forward in the environment space, but also a game-changer for fitness and aquatic centres everywhere.
“It’s a win-win for our residents and the environment, and it’s another great example of Council delivering on its commitments,” Mayor Gangemi added.
In addition to this, Council has a 99kW solar system on the roof of its Administration Building (based at 3 Columbia Court, Norwest), and many other solar panels, including on Council-owned childcare centres, libraries and other community buildings.
Council is also continuing its upgrade of streetlights to LED. In the last financial year, 5,756 streetlights were upgraded to LED – that’s more than 50 per cent of The Hills Shire’s street light network upgraded to more energy efficient lighting.
Council also received funding under Phase Three of the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program to install an electric car charging station at its Administration Building car park.
“And the first-ever Electric Vehicle Expo, which was supported by Council, was hailed a ‘success’,” Mayor Gangemi said.
“These are great outcomes and shows Council’s commitment to becoming more sustainable and energy efficient,” he added.
