Northern Grampians Shire Council is set to save almost $11,000 a year thanks to a new initiative cutting operating costs at the Stawell Leisure Complex.
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Funding provided through the Australian Government's Community Energy Efficiency Program (CEEP) has allowed council to install a new solar heating system and LED lighting to minimise gas and electricity consumption at the facility.
The solar heating system has been operational since February and reduces the use of the pool's gas boiler.
Mayor Cr Kevin Erwin said LED lights were now being installed throughout the Leisure Complex, including the basketball stadium and indoor cricket area.
"This project is part of council's commitment to energy efficiency and sustainable living," he said.
"The Stawell Leisure Complex is more than 25 years old and much of its technologies are out-dated or inefficient.
"The funding we have received under CEEP enables us to reduce the energy used at the facility and save on annual maintenance costs."
Savings from the solar hot water system for the pool are expected to be in excess of $5,000 per year, while the lighting changeover will cut annual costs by $5,750.
Cr Erwin said local contractor WW & KF Skinner was completing the electrical work with lights supplied by Stawell's Middendorp Electrics.
"The new lights are much brighter than the old ones and have made a huge difference, especially in the basketball stadium," he said.
"Being able to improve the facility, reduce energy consumption and cut costs is a win-win situation and will ensure the long-term sustainability of the Stawell Leisure Complex for the community."