Leeton Shire Council is pleased to announce its success in obtaining $203,006 in grant funding from the Australian Government's Community Energy Upgrades Fund (CEUF) Round 1.
The funding will enable important energy upgrades at the Leeton Regional Aquatic Centre and Whitton Swimming Pool to be completed prior to the start of the swimming season in 2026, with Council co-contributing $203,006 to the project from pre-approved capital expenditure funds.
Key project activities include:
- Constructing solar shade structures and installing a new 99 kW solar power system at the Leeton Regional Aquatic Centre.
- Reusing the existing 34 kW rooftop solar power system from the Leeton Regional Aquatic Centre at the Whitton Swimming Pool.
- Decommissioning the existing natural gas heating system for the shallow pools at the Leeton Regional Aquatic Centre and installing a new solar heating system and heat pump as a booster.
Luke Tedesco, Executive Manager Utilities, Environment and Emergency Services, said the project underpins Council's commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint.
"The solar power upgrades and heat pump installation will not only improve energy efficiency but also contribute to our goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 132 tonnes per year," said Mr Tedesco.
Cr Sarah Tiffen, Portfolio Lead for Environmental Sustainability, welcomed the injection of funds by the federal government, saying upgrading pool solar systems will be good for the community and the environment.
"Our local public pools are one of our greatest assets - and going solar has been an important step towards future-proofing these assets. It is also better for the environment, and our budget bottom-line.
"Along with exciting new wind farm and solar battery proposals in the pipeline for our part of the world, this funding shows confidence that Leeton and the region is well-positioned for significant renewable energy investment. This means money and jobs, and a healthier environment," she said.
Leeton Shire Council is one of 17 successful councils in New South Wales and 58 across Australia to receive this grant. Council looks forward to the positive impact these upgrades will have on the cost of running services and the environment.
