Northern Beaches Council’s in Sydney’s north-east has achieved impressive savings in annual electricity costs after going 100% renewable.

In the past financial year alone, electricity consumption costs for Council buildings and sites have been reduced by $321, 690, while electricity costs for street lighting were cut by $201, 870.

The savings result from the signing of a 100% renewable electricity Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), along with improvements in energy efficiency and the installation of extra photovoltaic panels on council properties.

Together, the solar installations and the PPA are expected to bring savings of more than $2.4 million over seven years.

“By investing in solar and switching to renewable energy, we have reduced our emissions by around 80% and slashed our energy costs,” Mayor Regan said.

“It’s a win for the community with savings directed back into infrastructure upgrades and community projects right across the Northern Beaches.

“We are proud to be part of a future-minded community that champions sustainability and climate change action. We have not only met our corporate emission reduction targets — we have exceeded those targets.”

Some of the energy savings have come from boosting solar capacity on Council buildings from 500 kW to more than 900 kW, and the use of fast electric vehicle chargers using 100% renewable power.

Another aspect has been Ausgrid’s Accelerated Residential Streetlight LED replacement project — more than 90% complete on the Northern Beaches — which, it has been estimated, will save the Council more than $1.7 million over ten years.