In November, Marrickville Council in Sydney’s inner west approved the installation of a $200,000 solar array at its Annette Kellerman Aquatic Centre (AKAC). The installation is set to make the development the most ecologically sustainable aquatic centre in Australia.
The large solar energy generator will not only further reduce Council’s reliance on coal fired electricity, but will feed excess power into the State’s electricity grid.
It complements both the passive solar design of AKAC and the cogeneration facility installed in the building that uses gas to provide electrical power and heating for the pool. This results in lower operating costs and significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
The solar array will be funded from within the allocated budget of $18 million for the new centre.
Council also approved the purchase of a flip up boom that will extend the number of ways the pool can be used. The proposal is to install a pair of booms to enable lap swimming, while dividing four other lanes, thereby catering to a wider range of pool users.
Council has also recently approved concept designs for the Fanny Durack Aquatic Centre in Petersham and endorsed an ‘aspirational goal’ to make the centre carbon neutral during both construction and future operation.
Marrickville Council is committed to a 20 per cent cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2010.
Over the last ten years, it has achieved a total abatement of 16,197 tonnes carbon dioxide equivalent emissions through improved lighting across all facilities, better air conditioning, the installation of solar panels, the introduction of more fuel efficient vehicles including seven hybrid vehicles, and the use of biofuels for Council’s light and heavy vehicle fleet.
“Climate change is one of the most important issues we face as a community and Council is actively engaged in initiatives to reduce its impact on the environment,” said Marrickville Mayor Sam Iskandar.
“Overwhelmingly, our residents have told us they want a sustainable community. This is yet another way Council can demonstrate its commitment to reducing global warming. Coal fired electricity is the greatest contributor to climate change.”
For further information contact Council’s Manager Environmental Services Jan Orton on (02) 9335 2222.
