The winners of the Cities Power Partnership Awards have been revealed, with the awards recognising the achievements of local governments who are delivering outstanding clean energy and sustainability solutions.
The Awards, run by the Climate Council’s Cities Power Partnership, took place virtually and recognised the work of the climate heroes in local governments across the country, in the fields of renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable transport, community engagement, ambition, collaboration and innovation.
Dr Portia Odell, Cities Power Partnership Director, said that the calibre of submissions showed how local governments are stepping up to the climate challenges and playing a vital role in Australia’s climate solution.
“The local climate projects on display at these awards, from councils collaborating to purchase 100 per cent renewable energy in the largest emissions reduction project ever undertaken by Australian local governments, to shifting entire council fleets to zero emissions vehicles, are tangible proof that Australian communities are leading the way with practical local climate solutions,” Dr Odell said.
The Award winners are:
Renewable Energy Achievement Award
Winner: Northern Beaches Council, NSW – Northern Beaches Goes Renewable
Energy Efficiency Achievement Award
Winner: Georges River Council, NSW – Working towards net zero emissions
Sustainable Transport Achievement Award
Winner: ACT Government, ACT – Zero Emissions Fleet Transition
Community Engagement Achievement Award
Winner: City of Adelaide, SA – Sustainability Incentives Scheme Enabling Community Emissions Outcomes
Innovation Award
Winner: Greater Dandenong City Council, VIC – Net zero emissions in Council infrastructure and assets bids
Ambition Award
Winner: Mornington Peninsula Shire, VIC – Climate Emergency Plan “Ensuring our Future”
Collaboration Award
Winner: Darebin City Council, VIC – Victorian Energy Collaboration (VECO)
Climate Ambassador Award (elected representative)
Winner: Shoalhaven City Council, NSW – Mayor Amanda Findley
Climate Champion Award (council staff)
Winner: Cairns Regional Council Sustainability Team, QLD
Highly Commended: Hunter Joint Organisation, NSW
Community Choice Award
Winner: Borough of Queenscliffe, VIC – Community-led climate emergency response plan
“It’s great to see councils continue to lead on climate solutions despite being faced with the immediate challenge of COVID-19, bushfires, floods and extreme heat,” Dr Odell said.
“Love the inspiring, community-focused approaches to tackling climate change, delivering major emissions reductions and significant cost savings for local residents and businesses.”
