2021-08-10 P&E Agenda - Item 7 - Attachment 1 - Climate Change Response Plan

                                                              Noosa Climate Change Response Plan




Theme 2:
Energy efficiency and renewable energy
Why this is important
Stationary Energy comprises 58% of Noosa Shire’s emissions profile. Emissions from stationary
energy are predominantly from electricity generated from coal fired power stations and small
amounts from natural and liquified petroleum gas (LPG). Reducing emissions from stationary
energy includes improving energy efficiency, reducing energy demand and switching to
renewable energy supply.
It has been estimated that $77 million per year leaves the shire to pay for electricity generated
elsewhere. The renewable energy revolution is underway and the costs of renewable energy
continue to fall. Transitioning to renewable energy across the shire will significantly reduce
emissions and costs to Council, households and businesses. This is also a significant
opportunity for business development, economic growth and employment within Noosa.
Renters and low-income households are often locked out of the transition to renewable
energy and options to reduce energy demand such as more energy efficient appliances. It is
important that the programs to reduce electricity demand and the take up of renewable energy
is inclusive of this sector. Improving the energy efficiency of homes has co-benefits of freeing
up capital to be used on other essential expenses and makes homes more resilient to the
impacts of climate change such as increased heat.


How we’ll achieve this
Council is responsible for its own buildings and facilities including those buildings that are
leased to commercial or community tenants. Emissions from these buildings can be reduced
by reducing demand, improving energy efficiency, and switching to renewable energy sources.
To this end, Council will continue to invest in its own buildings and facilities to reduce emissions
from stationary energy and encourage tenants to improve energy efficiency and take up of
renewables through their leasing arrangements, grant opportunities and education.
Council will also support and assist the greater Noosa community to improve energy efficiency
and make the switch to renewable energy through education; facilitating the uptake of
renewable energy solutions via grants and expert advice; enabling access to energy solutions
to vulnerable residents of our community; and showcasing the positive actions of those within
the community that are reducing emissions from stationary energy.
Council will undertake further analyses of the options available to achieve 100% renewable
energy for Noosa Shire.




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