2021-03-09 P&E Agenda - Item 8 - Attachment 1 - 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 over $30 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 appliance. 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 building 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.

Strategic Priorities
The following strategic priorities are identified for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy:

2.1 Transition Noosa Council and Noosa Shire to 100% renewable energy and ensure the transition
    is inclusive of low income and vulnerable residents and businesses.
2.2 Develop a climate aware and empowered community with improved capacity to reduce
    emissions




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Noosa Climate Change Response Plan - draft for council endorsement March 2021