A new ACT Government program helps local community clubs upgrade their buildings and equipment to increase energy efficiency and reduce their emissions.

The Community Clubs Building Energy Efficiency program will give eligible clubs rebates of up to $75,000 on an equal contribution basis to upgrade to more energy efficient products and systems.

Energy bills are one of clubs’ biggest overheads, said Shane Rattenbury, ACT Minister for Emissions Reduction; this program will help them lower their bills by installing rooftop solar and battery storage systems, and upgrade inefficient appliances such as air conditioners and hot water systems.

The government will assess how clubs use energy and where they can improve; clubs receive a report advising which products may help them cut energy use and costs.

Sixteen clubs have registered for the program, of which eight have had their premises assessed.

The Australian Croatian Club was the first club to register for the Program and receive their energy assessment.

The report identified how the club could save up to $6,400 annually on their energy costs, by upgrading to an energy efficient system, and installing ceiling insulation and double-glazed windows.

“Taking action on climate change is one way we can support our community now and into the future,” said Dom Polegubic, the club’s treasurer. “Taking part in the program was really straightforward, and the free energy assessment gave us an insight into what changes can be made to improve the club’s energy efficiency.

“We are looking forward to seeing the difference that the new air conditioning unit will make for our guests, and our bills.”

The Energy Efficiency program is part of the ACT Government’s project to reduce gambling harm by helping community clubs lessen reliance on poker machine revenue.

The 2020-21 ACT Budget allocated $5 million to establish the Community Clubs Building Energy Efficiency program in 2021. More information can be found on the Everyday Climate Choices website.