Solar panels are being installed on the paranaple arts centre (pac) roof as part of the delivery of Devonport City Council’s strategic goal to live lightly on the environment.
Devonport Mayor Annette Rockliff said the capital works project, will see a 55kW micro inverter Solar system (148 panels) installed for $133,000 by Devonport business DES Electrical Contractors, and will reduce electricity costs with a payback period within seven years.
Cr Rockliff said at a time when energy costs are increasing annually, long-term the project will save money while achieving Council’s pledge to the national Cities Power Partnership.
“Renewable energy sources such as solar panels, are a great way to reduce the City’s carbon footprint and save money at the same time,” Cr Rockliff.
“Council is focussed on finding practical ways to meet its strategic goal of living lightly on our environment, through a range of projects that benefit our community, including existing solar panels at the arts storage centre, the Bass Strait Maritime Centre and other solar lighting projects within the City.
“Other living lightly projects include increasing recycling bins, providing an electric vehicle fast charger, increasing the uptake of low-carbon vehicles in our fleet and offering educational programs with groups such as Friends of the Don Reserve, Don College and Devonport Wildcare Group.”
Cr Rockliff said through the Cities Power Partnership, Council had pledged to install more renewable energy on council buildings, roll out energy efficient lighting, increase sustainable transport and set targets to increase the level of renewable power for Council operations.
Photo: DES Electrical Contractors employee Joseph Robertson with one of the 148 solar panels that are currently being installed on the paranaple arts centre roof as part of Devonport City Council’s strategic goal to live lightly on the environment.
