Five Tasmanian councils will share in $2.2 million to install solar panels and replace gas heating with electric systems at community facilities.
The funding comes from the federal government’s $100 million Community Energy Upgrades Fund.
Burnie City Council will electrify heating at the Burnie Aquatic Centre, switching out gas for heat pumps.
George Town Council will install rooftop solar across several council buildings, including its offices and works depot.
Meander Valley Council will also add solar panels to its offices.
Sorell Council is among the recipients, although details of its project have not yet been released.
Federal Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the upgrades would help communities invest more in their local facilities.
“From the local cricket ground, story time at the library and diving into the local pool at the height of summer, these upgrades will deliver a cheaper, cleaner energy future for Australia,” he said.
“It’s further proof that what’s good for the planet is good for the pocket.”
Lyons MP Rebecca White said the grants were “practical support” for regional Tasmania.
“These upgrades are helping cut energy bills and make sure local facilities like pools, halls and council offices can keep serving their communities,” she said.
The funding is part of a $50 million second round of grants going to 66 councils nationwide.
All funded projects include solar panels, with more than half also incorporating battery storage.
