Welcome to the July 2024 edition of the EAGA news round-up. Highlights from this edition are a spotlight on the Solar Savers electrification pilot, an advocacy win for the Planning for a Safe Climate campaign, and the ticket release for the 2024 Victorian Greenhouse Alliances Conference.
Planning for a Safe Climate Advocacy Win
The Victorian Greenhouse Alliances’ Planning for a Safe Climate advocacy campaign has led to the recent amendments to Victoria’s Planning and Environment Act 1987. As a result, the amendments “require consideration of climate change when making planning decisions about the use and development of land under the act and for other purposes, which includes greenhouse gas emissions, reductions targets and increased climate resilience” – a key ask of the campaign.
The state-wide campaign to reform Victoria’s planning system began in 2022, as EAGA teamed up with other Victorian Greenhouse Alliances and the Council Alliance for a Sustainable Built Environment (CASBE). The campaign assisted in elevating planning reform on the state agenda ahead of the 2022 election, as CASBE and the Alliances engaged with candidates and Members of Parliament seeking commitments to planning reform. Further efforts came last year when the Alliances sent letters to the Victorian Planning Minister and Climate Action Minister that included the request to amend the Planning and Environment Act.
Solar Savers Electrification Pilot
In addition to the existing bulk buy program offerings of solar PV and batteries, Solar Savers is now offering heat pumps and split systems. This exciting initiative is being piloted by four Solar Savers’ councils: Maroondah, Knox, Merri-bek, and Yarra Ranges.
Homeowners and apartment owners in these participating council areas can now take advantage of these additional products to further enhance their energy efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint. Solar Savers is aiming to enable these households to access the state rebates available for heat pumps and split systems, and will still offer high quality solar PV systems and batteries through the program.
Get Your Tickets Now for VGA Conference 2024!
The program for the Victorian Greenhouse Alliances Conference (VGAC) 2024 is close to finalised. We are pleased to announce that Dr. Bronwyn Gresham, CEO of Psychology for a Safe Climate, will be the keynote speaker, sharing her expertise and insights with the conference attendees. Additionally, Fiona Weigall, CEO of East Gippsland Shire Council, will deliver a feature presentation titled “Community matters: Local government’s crucial role in building climate resilience” during the closing plenary.
The conference sessions will cover a diverse range of topics, including electrification, regional industry transitions, community engagement, and nature-based solutions, with First Nations knowledge woven throughout the sessions. VGAC 2024 promises to be a source of inspiration and valuable insights for all participants. Get your tickets here.
Comments are closed.