The town of Derby in Western Australia will receive $5.2 million worth of renewable energy projects, helping to reduce energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions, as well as assisting in reducing night time crime and traffic incidents.
The projects are being delivered by Horizon Power as part of the Western Australian Government’s WA Recovery Plan.
Works at Derby Hospital include installing 550 kilowatts peak (kWp) of rooftop solar together with a 275kW/h renewable energy smoothing battery.
Additionally, 310kWp of rooftop solar will be installed across the Shire of Derby’s community buildings.
Around 827 conventional streetlights will be upgraded to energy-efficient smart LED units, spanning 10km from Derby to the Aboriginal community of Mowanjum.
Horizon Power’s new streetlight technology will enable the service provider to identify outages in real time and remove the need to carry out routine inspections.
The combined projects are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 900 tonnes per year, save the Shire of Derby $170,697 annually and reduce evening crime by 10 per cent.
Derby Hospital will benefit from more than $590,000 in annual energy supply and consumption savings.
These renewable energy solutions will also result in a reduction to total greenhouse gas emissions of around 460 tonnes annually – the equivalent of taking 100 cars off the road
More than ten local jobs will be created during procurement and construction.
Western Australian Premier, Mark McGowan, said, “It is pleasing to see examples of projects like these that will tangibly improve the quality of life, local amenity and community service provision for people in the Shire of Derby.”
“This project forms part of the $5.5 billion WA Recovery Plan which will help drive economic and social recovery across our state, and create a pipeline of jobs for Western Australians.
“A key component of our Kimberley Recovery Plan is to invest in renewable energy initiatives that will support the Kimberley region and remote communities, and improve reliability and efficiency to these areas – and help lower energy costs.”
Energy Minister, Bill Johnston, said, “These projects are delivering on the McGowan Government’s commitment to a renewable energy future and improving energy affordability in Western Australia.
“They will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help the town lower its electricity bills, which is a significant issue for our remote northern communities.
“I commend the Shire of Derby for committing to reinvest its $170,000 of annual savings back into local youth programs, including extending operating hours at the Derby Youth Centre to midnight.”
Kimberley MLA, Josie Farrer, said, “Our health and community services are important facilities in Derby so I welcome this investment which is about making energy more affordable, reliable and the savings made can be used to further improve and provide more services.
“It’s vital our Kimberley towns continue to benefit from important upgrades and infrastructure works that benefit the residents and help attract visitors – while creating jobs in the regions.”
