Five community buildings are harnessing the sun's energy and reducing carbon emissions thanks to new solar panels, installed as part of the City's $5.09 million local economic and social stimulus package.
Bayswater Bowling and Recreation Club (BBRC) and Les Hansman Library in Morley received their solar panels this week, following fit-outs at Morley Windmills Soccer Club, Bayswater Morley District Cricket Club and Morley Noranda Recreation Club in October and November.
Mayor Dan Bull said the project was fast-tracked to completion thanks to around $100,000 in stimulus package funding, bringing the City closer to its renewable energy target.
"Including these new installations, the City now has 15 buildings powered by solar, reducing our annual carbon emissions by around 485 tonnes and saving close to $160,000 per year," Cr Bull said.
"The largest of these systems was just installed at Morley Noranda Recreation Centre with the solar panels at that facility alone projected to reduce City's emissions by around 57 tonnes per annum.
"The project brings us closer to our commitment to be 100 per cent powered by renewable energy by 2030."
Bayswater Bowling and Recreation Club welcomed their system this week. It's set to reduce the City's carbon emissions by 40 tonnes over the next year.
Club operations manager Shane Kinnear said he was happy to see the building made more energy efficient.
"The solar panels will be good for the environment and with less electricity used, they will certainly make a massive difference," Mr Kinnear said.
With close to 900 members, including around 100 bowlers and 800 socialisers, he said the much-loved club had bounced back after the lockdown period, celebrating its 85th anniversary last month.
"Since re-opening after our COVID closures, the community has really supported us well and now attendance rates are probably the best they’ve been for the last 20 years," he said.
Cr Bull said it was great to see the strength and resilience of local clubs through the pandemic.
"Through its stimulus package, the City is proud to support our local clubs and community groups towards recovery," Cr Bull said.
Find out more about the City's stimulus package here.