Ergon Energy Planning Underway for Solar City Project (Oz)

[jpak]

http://www.solarbuzz.com/News/NewsASPR152.htm

Queensland utility, Ergon Energy’s Magnetic Island customers can expect to receive an information package on the Solar City Project by mid 2007. The package will research their views and allow them to register their interest in being involved in this unique seven year, A$30 million major sustainable energy trial under the Australian Government’s Solar Cities program.

Magnetic Island will be the focus of the project which is targeting the installation of 500 solar photovoltaic systems on around one-third of the island’s residential and commercial buildings as well as the installation of smart meters and energy efficiency measures in all 1700 network connected properties. Manager Regional Services Paul Ryan said the first stage in the project will be a free energy audit of Ergon Energy’s customers on the island.

The program is designed to demonstrate how solar power, smart meters, energy efficiency and new approaches to electricity pricing can combine to provide a sustainable energy future while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. While planning is underway to roll out the project, Ergon Energy is negotiating the Solar Cities Project funding agreement with the Australian Greenhouse Office.

"Over the next three years, all eligible residential and business customers will be offered a free, comprehensive energy audit. The audit will identify inefficient use of electricity leading to customers losing money and recommend behavioural and technical changes to save electricity and money and reduce greenhouse gas emissions," he said.

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