Greater Geelong is one of 51 Victorian Councils that has slashed its energy bills over the last year by switching to renewable energy through the Victorian Energy Collaboration (VECO).
The Victorian Energy Collaboration (VECO) is the largest ever emissions reduction project by local governments in Australia.
The City has eliminated 100 percent of carbon emissions associated with its operational electricity usage since joining VECO, and is on-track to achieve its target of being a net zero carbon organisation by 2025.
Since launching in 2021, VECO has grown from 46 to 51 participating councils and is now being facilitated by Glen Eira City Council, after Darebin City Council led the procurement process for the group.
The 9.5 year contract with Red Energy will continue to protect councils from record high wholesale prices in the coming years, and help to increase the stability of the state’s energy system.
- Partnered with 51 Victorian Councils to deliver 100 percent renewable electricity
- Installed solar panels at 27 Council facilities
- Began the transition of our light fleet vehicles to zero emission vehicles
- Methane gas capture at Drysdale Landfill to produce renewable electricity
- Joined the Barwon South-West Climate Change Alliance
- Constructing 5-Star Green Star community facilities
- Stormwater capture and re-use.
For more information please visit the VECO website.
Mayor Trent Sullivan
This long-term deal is powering our streetlights, libraries, leisure centres and council facilities, while reducing emissions and keeping costs low. The first 12 months of the partnership has delivered electricity that’s 25 percent cheaper, which means we have more money for critical community services.
Councillor Belinda Moloney - Climate Change Action Chair
Victoria has some of the best renewable energy resources in the world, including wind and solar. This project shows we can work together take action on climate change while reducing our energy bills.