Latrobe City Council is accelerating its shift to a sustainable future through major investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency and emissions reduction projects.
These initiatives are not only helping to lower Council’s environmental footprint, but also delivering real cost savings for the community.
Council is proud to be leading the way in environmental leadership and sustainability. Council's Sustainability Action Plan 2023–2033 outlines a comprehensive 10-year roadmap to enhance environmental sustainability across the region.
The plan focuses on five key priorities including that Council Operations will work towards achieving achieving net zero Council energy emissions, adapting to climate change, greening Latrobe City, connecting the community with nature and fostering a circular economy.
It includes practical actions such as upgrading public lighting to LED, expanding solar and biogas energy projects and installing batteries at strategic locations. These renewable energy investments are supporting long-term financial sustainability while helping us deliver better services for our community.
Key projects:
Street lighting upgrade Approximately 2500 non-LED lights were replaced with energy efficient LED lights in 2023–24, reducing electricity usage by over 700,000 kWh annually – that’s enough to power one home for 96 years - saving around $260,000 per year.
Solar energy expansion Council’s renewable energy portfolio now includes over 1,200 kW of solar, with new projects set to increase capacity to1.8 MW. A major 900 kW solar rollout at all Leisure centres, Kernot Hall, Moe Outdoor Pool and Churchill Hub will save approximately $200,000 in energy costs annually.
Biogas energy generation A biogas generator at Council’s Hyland Highway landfill is generating 4.5 million kWh of power per year saving an estimated $600,000 and approximately 2500 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions annually by converting methane from waste into clean electricity.
Battery storage The installation of 700 kWh of battery storage this financial year will further cut costs by time-shifting solar energy to evening peaks, saving around $45,000 annually.
Water management The installation of 30 water loggers has already helped detect and fix leaks worth over $125,000 in avoided water costs, conserving around 21,000 kL of water annually. That’s equivalent to over eight Olympic-size pools!
These projects are delivering real savings, for Council and for ratepayers, while also helping us reach our climate and energy goals. It’s a win for the environment and a win for the community.
With each solar panel, battery and LED streetlight, we’re building a cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable Latrobe.
We’re not just talking about sustainability - we’re doing it. From biogas energy to leak detection and solar installations, these are practical, effective projects that make a difference every day.
For more information on Council’s renewable energy and sustainability initiatives, visit: www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/Home/Sustainability_and_Environment