Bundaberg's reputation as a national solar energy powerhouse was lauded in the Queensland Parliament yesterday.
Energy Minister Anthony Lynham revealed more than more than $600,000 has been paid in rebates to landlords through the Solar for Renters trial.
The trial is operating exclusively in Bundaberg, Gladstone and Townsville.
“To August this year, more than 37,000 new solar systems have been installed in Queensland,” Dr Lynham said.
“That equates to a new solar system installed in this state every nine minutes.
“Queenslanders clearly recognise the benefits of renewable energy.
“That is why we boast six of the top 10 solar postcodes in this nation. They include Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Caloundra and Toowoomba.”
Earlier this year, the Bundaberg 4670 postcode area was recognised as having the highest uptake of solar panel installations in the country, according to a Clean Energy Australia report.
Bundaberg Region Mayor Jack Dempsey said Council was installing more solar panels to reduce greenhouse emissions and save electricity costs.
“Council has commissioned over one megawatt (MW) of renewable energy across a number of facilities and assets,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“This includes a 461 kW solar array at the newly developed, state-of-the-art Rubyanna Wastewater Treatment Plant, which offsets approximately 40 per cent of the total plant energy requirements.
“Council is actively utilising or exploring other forms of renewable energy technology including 200 kW of battery storage commissioned onsite at the newly constructed Bundaberg Multiplex.”
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