Australian government funds ‘green buildings’ to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 9 November 2009 The Australian Government has announced $16.4 million worth of projects to cut 38,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions a year through a number of ‘green buildings’ grants. Under this initiative, which is part of the $90 million Green Building Fund, 37 commercial office buildings will be retro-fitted to increase to their energy efficiency. Upgrades will include the installation of solar panels and film, the replacement of base building lighting, high performance glazing, skylights, low energy lighting systems, bulk insulation, and upgrades to air conditioning such as new chillers and variable speed drives. In announcing the grants, the Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, Senator Kim Carr, noted that power bills are reduced when energy efficiency is increased – “and that means ongoing savings for business.” The Minister said that projected savings in greenhouse gas emissions from projects supported by the fund so far total over 101,000 tonnes a year. “These projects combat climate change and support Australia’s economic recovery by generating investment of almost $75 million,” the Minister added. More information |