A major solar photovoltaic project just completed at the Bendigo Water Treatment Plant is expected to save up to $24,000 in operating costs.
Coliban Water Acting Executive General Manager Service and Infrastructure Danny McLean said the 100 kilowatt system will offset a proportion of the electricity consumption at the facility.
“The project is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 180 tonnes of CO2-e per year, or approximately 1,800 tonnes of CO2-e over a 10-year period.
Developed by private partner, Veolia, which operate the Bendigo Water Treatment Plant, the 300 panel system is expected to pay for itself within three years.
Veolia Project Manager Stephen Dickons said the organisation trained three electrical engineers to install the system themselves, saving both time and money.
“It’s been a great team building project, with our staff able to follow it from concept to completion.
“The more we do now, the more it’s going to reduce our impact on the environment,” Mr Dickons said.
Both Veolia and Coliban Water hope to see more treatment facilities following course, with plans underway for a broader rollout across the region.
The project is underpinned by Coliban Water’s Strategy 2030, which identifies four strategic directions for the organisation, including Water Security and Zero Carbon as well as Healthy People and Environment.
“Coliban Water is committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2040. Our region is critically impacted by the changing climate so we must adapt and grow to meet these challenges.
“We’re continually looking for ways to reduce our carbon footprint and where possible will look to add solar to the energy production of our facilities where possible,” Mr McLean said.
The project further bolsters the relationship between Coliban Water and its strategic partner Veolia, which delivers water quality and treatment to the region.
To find out more about Coliban Water’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint visit the Strategy 2030 on our website.
Last updated on 18 Sep 2019