Geelong Sustainability has announced this week it will continue to deliver its program helping not-for-profits reduce their energy use and costs for the next financial year.
The organisation’s Community Power Hub program enjoyed a successful first year of operation, working with 38 local not-for-profits to save thousands in energy build savings.
The program provides free independent support and advice on how to adopt renewable energy and other improvements to significantly reduce energy bills.
Services include energy audits, solar feasibility assessments and assistance transitioning from gas to electricity.
Local organisation Geelong Food Relief accessed the Community Power Hub program over the past year, assisted by Geelong Sustainability’s community energy officer Emma Chessell.
Geelong Food Relief chief executive Andrew Schauble said Ms Chessell had helped his organisation navigate the complexities and “foreign language” of the energy sector.
“Through an audit of our setup and finding a more suitable contract, we will be saving over a thousand dollars per month, which can be redirected back into the community”, Mr Schauble said.
“The business case the hub developed for more solar, provided the necessary detail for a new funder to offer their support–benefiting the environment and putting further savings into our community.”
Geelong Sustainability chief executive Dan Cowdell said his organisation was focused on smoothing the way for not-for-profits to reduce their energy bills and environmental impact.
“The Community Power Hub program continues to be a game-changer for not-for-profits in our region, providing essential support and expertise that empower organisations to make informed decisions about renewable energy adoption and to help them save money”, Mr Cowdell said.
Visit geelongsustainability.org.au/project/cph for more information on the Community Power Hub, or enquire via email at info@geelongsustainability.org.au or call 1300 133 702.
