Grants available for water and energy

Member for Gosford Ms Marie Andrews is encouraging Peninsula community organisations to apply for grants of up to $40,000 for water and energy upgrades.

The grants are being offered by the Department of Environment and Climate Change under the State Government's $30 million Public Facilities Program.

"This is a great opportunity for local groups to make real improvements in energy and water efficiency by upgrading lighting systems, installing rainwater tanks, replacing electric hot water systems and installing water-efficient toilets and fixtures," Ms Andrews said.

"The not-for-profit sector is a vital part of our community and these grants will enable groups to make real savings, both in terms of money and the environment."

Minister for Climate Change and the Environment Ms Carmel Tebbutt said the new category would simplify access to funding for non-for-profit groups to save water, energy, emissions and money on bills.

"This initiative will provide a streamlined application process for small community organisations such as local clubs, pre-schools, aged care facilities and volunteer groups to improve efficiency in their facilities," Ms Tebbutt said.

Ms Tebbutt said the $30 million Public Facilities Program has allocated $10.4 million to 49 projects, saving 171 million litres of water a year and up to 9500 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.

Full details and application forms are available on the Department of Environment and Climate Change website at www.environment.nsw.gov.au

Press release, 20 Mar 2009 Marie Andrews, Member for Gosford