Energy works to save $10,000 a year

Gosford Council has decided to enter into an energy performance contract with Trane Australia.

It is estimated to save more than $10,000 a year in energy costs in Council buildings on the Peninsula alone.

A "detailed facilities study" has identified works across the Gosford local government area to the value of $1,357,687.

The council was told that, if fully implemented, it would reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions by 1433 tonnes per year, reduce water consumption by 14 megalitres per year, save $215,509 a year in utility charges and provide an internal rate of return of 15.6%.

Some of the savings guaranteed by Trane Australia after the first year include $1643 for the Ettalong Senior Citizens building, $798 for the Woy Woy Depot, $1130 for the Woy Woy library, $1511 for Woy Woy Major Sewer Pumping Station and $5175 for Woy Woy Sewerage Treatment Plant.

The proposed works at the library include rainwater collection and photovoltaic electricity generation for on site usage.

Gosford council officers have proposed that the works be funded by a Water and Sewerage loan.

While the million dollars would have to be raised initially, the contract would cover the total cost.

Once the loan had been repaid the ongoing savings would be permanent.

A representative for Trane Australia said they would continue to work in an open and consultative manner with Gosford Council not only to deliver significant financial returns and greenhouse gas reductions but also deliver education in renewable and energy and water efficiency projects to the local community.

Councillors have requested that they be kept informed of the progress of the implementation of the Energy Performance Contract.

Council agenda WS.14, November 23