ZERO CARBON EVOLUTION - Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community - Moreland City Council
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ZERO CARBON
EVOLUTION
Getting on track to a carbon neutral
Moreland community
XCONTENTS A new era for climate change action in Moreland 1 MORELAND IN 2020 2 CONTINUING TO LEAD 4 Moreland’s journey towards zero carbon 6 PREPARING MORELAND FOR THE FUTURE 8 THE ZERO CARBON CHALLENGE 11 The Moreland community’s carbon emissions 11 Understanding the carbon budget 12 GETTING ON TRACK TO ZERO CARBON BY 2020 13 The task ahead 13 Ongoing community engagement and review of strategy 14 Key guiding principles 15 1. Re-imagining our urban systems 15 2. Including all Moreland people 16 3. Investing for our future 17 4. Adapting as our climate changes 18 5. A whole-of-government and community approach 18 ACTION PLAN 19 Zero carbon evolution strategies 19 Contribution of each strategy to the 2020 goal 20 Strategy 1: Generating local renewable energy 21 Strategy 2: Using energy efficiently 26 Strategy 3: Low-emissions transport 31 Strategy 4: Minimising urban heat island effects 36 Strategy 5: Activating our community to reduce emissions 40 Summary of strategies 45 Prioritising actions 46 Implementation costs 47 Year 1: 2014–15 47 Years 2–6: 2015–2020 49 Checking our progress 52 Further information 52
A new era for climate change
action in Moreland
Moreland City Council is Re-creating Moreland as a low- Climate change is already impacting
pleased to signal a new era carbon city will require collaborative on the Moreland community. Local
for climate change action in effort, investment and commitment governments are in a unique position
Moreland through the Zero from residents, businesses, to lead and enable communities to
Carbon Evolution Strategy (2014- community groups and many take collective, on-the-ground action
2020). The Strategy builds on others across our community. It will to address the challenges of climate
Moreland’s strong history and also require supportive State and change.
proud reputation of local action Commonwealth policy and programs Moreland is proud to be a Council
to mitigate the effects of climate over the next six years, particularly leading at the forefront on this
change, including achieving regarding the local generation of issue. Taking immediate local
carbon neutrality for Council renewable energy, energy efficiency action on climate change will allow
operations in 2012. and low-emissions transport. our community to capture the
The Strategy sets out an ambitious Through the Strategy, Moreland City environmental, social and economic
plan to achieve a 22 per cent Council has committed to actions benefits of the global transition
reduction in carbon emissions across that will enable and support the towards zero carbon cities.
the Moreland community by 2020. A Moreland community to reduce
reduction of this scale would see the carbon emissions. Council will work Cr Lambros Tapinos,
municipality living within its ‘carbon closely with the Moreland Energy Mayor of Moreland
budget’ and on track to zero carbon. It Foundation (MEFL) in delivering the
will also deliver more local renewable Strategy’s actions, building on over a
energy for Moreland homes and decade of experience facilitating local
businesses, homes that are more community action to reduce carbon
comfortable and consume less emissions.
energy, resource-smart businesses,
more opportunities for people to be
active and increased vegetation and
urban greenery.
Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community 1
XMORELAND IN 2020
Moreland in A shift towards a low-carbon
community will create a prosperous
People will be healthier, more active
and better prepared to cope with the
2020 and resilient future for Moreland. It will
encourage connected communities
changing climate. Businesses will
work smarter and new businesses will
of citizens who are doing things be attracted into the municipality to
differently to have a positive influence take up new opportunities.
on our shared future. More people Moreland will be ready for the
will take responsibility for the impacts challenges of this century and
of their lifestyles on the health of our beyond.
environment and choose to engage in
the decisions that shape our suburbs.
In 2020 in Moreland:
Households and businesses Homes will consume less People will be more active
will be powered by renewable energy and be comfortable, and socially connected within
energy affordable and healthy places their neighbourhoods
to live
Businesses will become energy Streets and open spaces will Residents will act as
and resource smart – improving be alive with people, plants, conscious consumers
their bottom line and developing activity and art
a low-carbon advantage
Everyone will play an important part in
the shift to a zero carbon future.
2 Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community
Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community 3
CONTINUING TO LEAD
Continuing to Moreland has always been ahead of
the curve in taking action on climate
This commitment goes back as far
as the 1980s, when the Brunswick
lead change. Electricity Supply Department was
leading the charge with energy
Building on our strong history and
In 2014, the State and proud reputation, Council has set efficiency and renewable energy. In
Commonwealth policy environment in a target to be on track to zero the 1990s, Victoria’s first solar panels
Australia provides a clear opportunity net carbon emissions across the were installed in Moreland.
for Local Government leadership community by 2020. This target Council released the Greenhouse
on climate change. Ambitious and sets a challenging but achievable goal Abatement Strategy Greenhouse
pro-active leadership at the city scale that focuses on local action to reduce Action Plan in 2001, followed by the
makes sense as local governments emissions in Moreland, rather than Climate Action Plan 2007–2012. The
are closer to the general population relying on purchasing a significant Carbon Management Strategy 2011
and businesses where the emissions quantity of carbon offsets. Investing also formalised Council’s commitment
occur and can draw on the collective in local action on climate change not to cutting carbon emissions and
power of local communities. only prepares Moreland for a likely provided the roadmap to achieve
carbon-constrained future but also carbon neutrality for corporate
“While international negotiations provides substantial social, economic operations in 2012.
continue to make incremental and environmental benefits directly to
progress, cities are forging ahead. the local community.
As innovators and practitioners, As one of Australia’s leading Local
our cities are at the forefront of Government authorities on climate
this issue – arguably the greatest change, Moreland has fostered
challenge of our time.” ground-breaking partnerships and
Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, New York,
2011
demonstrated a serious commitment
to shifting towards a zero carbon
future.
4 Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community
CONTINUING TO LEAD
Moreland City Council was the Effective global action on climate
second Victorian Local Government change is likely to be the sum of As part of achieving carbon
to be certified carbon neutral for innumerable local initiatives led by neutrality, Council has
its corporate operations (and one many different players. implemented significant energy
of only five carbon neutral Councils efficiency projects at the
Council holds a critical role in shifting
in Australia). In 2013, Moreland Moreland Civic Centre, Brunswick
towards a zero carbon future: in
Council was officially recognised Town Hall, Coburg Leisure Centre
demonstrating leadership; leveraging
for leadership on environmental and Fawkner Leisure Centre
investment from other levels of
sustainability as winners of the over the past year. Works have
government and the private sector;
Victorian Keep Australia Beautiful included Heating, Ventilation & Air
advocating for systemic change and
Sustainable Cities Award and the Conditioning (HVAC) upgrades,
enabling community-led action.
national Keep Australia Beautiful lighting retrofits, double glazing,
MEFL also holds a key role in the insulation and draft sealing and
Energy Innovation Award.
shift to zero carbon: facilitating and the installation of pool blankets at
Moreland also has significant motivating local community action; the aquatic centres.
community assets that set a strong sharing information, knowledge and
foundation for climate action. Council has also invested
skills; and continuing to raise our
The Moreland Energy Foundation in electric vehicle charging
expectations of what we can together
(MEFL) has been working with the infrastructure at six locations in
create and achieve.
community for more than a decade Moreland and has plans to install
to implement innovative sustainable 160 kW of solar on Council
energy solutions. CERES Community buildings in 2014–15.
Environment Park is an environmental Council will soon begin a large
education centre and urban farm scale retrofit of street lighting
that is a living demonstration of food in the north of the municipality
security, sustainable agriculture, which will be the single largest
energy efficiency, renewable energy energy efficiency retrofit ever
and water conservation. Also, more undertaken by Moreland netting
than 50 independent community an annual 2000 tonnes of carbon
groups are working across kitchen emission reductions from its
tables, community gardens and local corporate footprint.
neighbourhoods to reduce carbon
emissions, adapt to climate change
and lead others to action.
Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community 5
CONTINUING TO LEAD
Moreland’s
journey towards
zero carbon
2001:
1980s:
MEFL is launched to the
Brunswick Electricity Moreland community
Supply Department
delivering first Council adopts the
energy efficiency and Greenhouse Abatement
renewable energy Strategy Greenhouse Action
projects in Australia Plan (GASGAP)
1980s 1990s 2001 2002–06 2007–09
1990s: 2002–2006: 2007–2009:
Victoria’s first solar panels installed MEFL delivers innovative programs Council adopts the Climate Action
in Moreland with local residents and businesses Plan 2007–2012
to save energy
Brunswick Electricity Supply $4.9 million Moreland Solar City
Department reporting carbon Coburg and Brunswick in top 20 project commences
emissions on electricity bills GreenPowered suburbs in Victoria
Council commits to zero net
MEFL partners with industry to corporate emissions by 2012 and
deliver the EcoSmart Electricians community emissions by 2030
program
Zero Carbon Moreland program
Council and MEFL join eight other begins
local governments in the Northern
Alliance for Greenhouse Action Moreland Energy Fund’s first bulk
(NAGA) buy sees 180 solar PV systems
installed on Moreland homes
7.2kW solar PV system installed on
Moreland Civic Centre
CERES is awarded a Premier’s
Sustainability Award
6 Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community
CONTINUING TO LEAD
2012:
Warm Home Cool Home program retrofits over 1,000 low income homes
in Moreland
2011: MEFL works with SMEs to save energy through an Energy Efficiency
Information Grant
Council and MEFL establish the Moreland
Energy Partnership, a joint venture to Over 4,000 residents and businesses are taking action on climate change
support the implementation of capital through Zero Carbon Moreland
projects to reduce carbon emissions
The Moreland Energy Partnership invests in cogeneration for Fawner
MEFL releases the Sustainable Urban Leisure Centre
Development Framework
Council achieves carbon neutrality for corporate emissions
MEFL works with Merri Community Health
MEFL, Kildonan Uniting Care and Brotherhood of St Laurence are
Services to reduce the vulnerability of
awarded a Premier’s Sustainability Award
residents at risk of heat-related impacts of
climate change Council leads the roll-out of the Sustainable Design Assessment Planning
Process to 15 local governments
Council’s Sustainable Design Assessment
Planning Process saves 7,600 tonnes of Council successfully participates in the Victorian DoT electric vehicle trial
carbon emissions from new buildings
Council installs: energy efficient lighting at Robinson Reserve, Warr Park,
Council awarded grant funding from Brunswick Park and the Council Depot, double glazing at Fawkner and
Victorian Sustainability Accord to upgrade Coburg Leisure Centres, high-efficiency hot water system at Hosken
the STEPS and SDS tools Reserve and a mini-fuel cell at the Bob Hawke Centre
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015
2010: 2013: 2014:
Council adopts the Carbon Council implements energy saving measures Council works with MEFL to
Management Strategy for corporate including upgrade of HVAC at Fawkner develop the Zero Carbon Evolution
emissions Community Hall and cogen at Fawkner Strategy
Leisure Centre.
100 new solar hot water systems Council commences a broad-scale
are installed by Moreland residents Council secures half a million in roll out of solar PV on Council
under MEFL’s community bulk buy Commonwealth CEEP funding to deliver buildings
major energy efficiency works
Zero Carbon Moreland provides MEFL implements the Solar Saver
retrofits to make 110 houses MEFL launches Positive Charge - a Program, installing over 300
cheaper to heat and cool social enterprise that provides practical solar PV systems on low-income
sustainability services to households, households in Darebin
Council’s Sustainable Design businesses and community organisations
Assessment Planning Process Council leads the development of
saves 5,200 tonnes of carbon Council and MEFL participate in the NAGA- the Built Environment Sustainability
emissions from new buildings led development of the Go5 electricity Scorecard (BESS)
consumption target
Council requests authorisation from the Council receives a supportive report
Minister for Planning for ESD policy MEFL works with Climate Action Moreland from the Panel and Ministerial
in the Moreland Planning Scheme to commence the Moreland Community Advisory Committee on ESD
Solar Project planning policy (amendment C71)
Council reduces energy
consumption by 22% at Fawner Council is awarded the Victorian Keep
Leisure Centre and at Coburg Civic Australia Beautiful Sustainable Cities Award
Centre, electricity use decreases by
27% and gas use by 80% Council installs six public electric vehicle
charging stations in Moreland including the
first public EV fast charge station in Victoria
Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community 7
PREPARING MORELAND FOR THE FUTURE
Preparing The scientific evidence is now
undeniable: human activities are
If we continue as we are, greenhouse
gas emissions are predicted to
Moreland for increasing greenhouse gas levels in
the atmosphere which is changing
increase across the globe by another
50 percent by 2050 and average
the future our climate and warming the planet. global temperature could rise by
Per person, Victorians are among the up to 5.4°C by 21002. A global
highest greenhouse gas emitters in temperature rise of this magnitude
“The opportunities to reduce the world. is predicted to have catastrophic
greenhouse gas emissions and impacts on every aspect of our lives.
limit the severity of climate change Most nations across the globe,
are rapidly diminishing. Strong including Australia, have agreed All of the world’s major economies,
action has to occur now if the risks that the increase in average global including the two largest emitters (the
and their associated costs are to temperatures must not exceed 2°C USA and China), are implementing
be avoided” above pre-industrial levels to avoid measures to reduce their greenhouse
Victorian Commissioner for Environmental
the most catastrophic impacts of gas emissions. Australia’s major
Sustainability, 2013 climate change. The average annual trading partners and neighbours
surface temperature across the are implementing renewable energy
globe has already risen by more than targets, emissions trading schemes
0.6°C1. and other policies to drive down
emissions.
1 IPCC, Fifth Assessment Report (WGII), 2014 2 IPCC, Fifth Assessment Report (WGI),2013
8 Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland communityPREPARING MORELAND FOR THE FUTURE
The global carbon budget is a
measure of the maximum amount
of greenhouse gas that can be VERY HOT days (OVER 35˚C)
emitted to retain a chance of
limiting warming to 2°C. MELBOURNE CAN EXPECT PER YEAR
CSIRO, Climate Change in Australia, 2007
The global economy needs to reduce
its carbon intensity (the amount of
carbon emissions per unit of GDP)
by around 6 percent per year for 2070 26 DAYS
the rest of the century to stay within
the carbon budget. If we continue
the current rate of de-carbonisation
(0.7% global reduction per year),
we are on track to blow the carbon
budget by 20343.
There is clearly a strong imperative
for immediate and large-scale
emissions reductions. Most of our
known fossil fuel reserves will need to
be left in the ground. 2030 13 DAYS
In Moreland, we are already feeling
the effects of climate change. Over
the coming decades scientists are
telling us to expect more frequent 2014 9 DAYS
and intense heat waves, changes
in rainfall patterns and run-off and VERY
increasingly severe weather events
including droughts, fires, storms and
HOT
floods. OVER
35˚C
3 PwC, Busting the Carbon Budget: Low Carbon
Economy Index, 2013
Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community 9PREPARING MORELAND FOR THE FUTURE
Climate change is not just an To avoid the most severe impacts Note: The terms ‘greenhouse gas
environmental problem. of climate change, we need to emissions’ and ‘carbon emissions’ are
The effects of climate change present urgently and significantly reduce used interchangeably throughout this
substantial risks to our health and our carbon emissions. This requires document. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is
well-being, economy and our whole fundamental change in the way we the most common greenhouse gas
society. These impacts are likely generate energy, consume energy, emitted from human activities.
to include loss of life, physical and move around and buy and dispose
mental health impacts, reduced of products. The decisions we make
primary production, property damage, between now and 2020 will have a
coastal inundation and loss of power, significant impact on the degree of
transport and communications climate disruption experienced by
infrastructure. There will also be our children and grandchildren in the
adverse impacts on biodiversity, second half of this century.
habitat, health of ecosystems and Shifting towards a zero carbon future
significant changes to our waterways. in Moreland is not something that the
Council can do alone.
It is going to take a conscious effort
from every resident, business owner,
employee, student, volunteer and
visitor to contribute to creating our
positive future. This is a time for
collaboration and sharing, supporting
each other and pushing the
boundaries to find new ways of doing
things.
Everyone in Moreland is
responsible for climate change,
everyone is vulnerable to the
impacts, and everyone must be
part of the solution.
10 Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland communityTHE ZERO CARBON CHALLENGE
The Zero Carbon
Where do our Who is responsible
Challenge emissions come from? for the emissions?
The Moreland
community’s carbon WASTE PT
emissions GAS
INDUSTRIAL
The Moreland community emitted
approximately 1491 kilotonnes
(kT) of greenhouse gases in 2011. ELECTRICITY RESIDENTIAL
The burning of fossil fuels for
energy is the predominant source of TRANSPORT COMMERCIAL
greenhouse gas emissions.
Almost half of Moreland’s greenhouse
gas emissions come from the
consumption of electricity by
households, businesses and others
within the municipality. Petrol, Greenhouse Gas Emissions Greenhouse Gas Emissions
diesel and LPG-powered vehicles (ktonnes CO2-e/year) in 2011 (ktonnes CO2-e/year) in 2011
account for around 34 percent of our Electricity 49% 735 kT Residential 55% 813 kT
emissions. The remaining emissions
Transport 34% 500 kT Commercial 24% 351 kT
are due to consumption of natural
gas in homes and businesses and Gas 11% 171 kT Industrial 20% 295 kT
from waste that ends up in landfill. Waste 6% 85 kT Public transport (PT) 2% 32 kT
Moreland’s carbon emissions are Total 100% 1491 kT Total 100% 1491 kT
relatively evenly split between
households and business/industry.
Greenhouse gas emissions from
Moreland Council’s corporate
operations are equivalent to around
1% of total community emissions and
are addressed separately through the
Carbon Management Strategy.
Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community 11THE ZERO CARBON CHALLENGE
Understanding the
carbon budget CARBON BUDGET
The size of the increase in global ALLOCATIONS
FOR 2013 to 2050
temperature is related to the total
concentration of greenhouse gases
in the atmosphere. The global carbon Mt CO2-e for the period 2013–2050
}
budget estimates the total amount
of greenhouse gas emissions that
will result in a certain temperature
increase, within a probability range.
The Climate Change Authority
(CCA), in its review of Australia’s
emissions reduction targets and
progress towards our international
obligations, translated the global
carbon budget into an equivalent GLOBAL
carbon budget for Australia. The
CCA used a global emissions budget 1,040,000
that provides a likely chance (67 per
cent probability) of limiting warming
}
to 2°C or less. Achieving this goal
is very challenging, but it remains
technologically and economically
feasible.
The CCA has calculated that Australia
should be allocated 0.97 percent
AUSTRALIA
of the global emissions budget 10,100
under a modified contraction and
}
convergence approach, where fast-
growing developing countries are
allowed extra time to decrease their MORELAND
emissions and developed countries
like Australia reduce emissions more 24.4
quickly to provide this ‘headroom’, with
all countries eventually converging to (Ref: Climate Change Authority, 2014)
equal per capita carbon emissions. Moreland’s share estimated by the Moreland
Energy Foundation on a per capita basis.
Building on the CCA work, this
strategy sets a carbon budget for
Moreland on a per capita basis.
12 Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland communityGETTING ON TRACK TO ZERO CARBON BY 2020
Getting on track
to zero carbon CARBON BUDGET
by 2020 FOR THE MORELAND
The task ahead
COMMUNITY
Allowable carbon emissions (kT CO2e/year)
Action on climate change is urgent
and we all need to be doing our fair
share to shift towards a zero carbon
future. To pull our weight in the effort
1600
}
to create a relatively stable climate
(an average global temperature
increase of less than 2°C), the
Moreland community needs to reduce 1400
1491 kT*
carbon emissions to 1164 kilotonnes 22% Reduction
Community is emitting
per year by 2020. This is a 22% 1,164 kT (or less)
decrease in emissions from 2011 by the end of 2020
1200
levels.
To achieve this reduction by 2020
would see us on track to achieving
1164 kT
our zero carbon future. 1000
Achieving a 22 percent reduction
in carbon emissions across the
municipality by 2020 is an ambitious 800 At this rate
and challenging task. To get there, we We will reach zero
will need many more people to join carbon in Moreland
the effort, existing community groups 600
by 2045
to grow, new ones to form and people
to do things differently in every home
and neighbourhood.
400
200
0
2013 2020
Moreland’s carbon budget
For the period 2013 to 2020, Moreland’s carbon budget = 10,128 kT
* 2011 data is used as the best estimate of 2013 community emissions
Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community 13GETTING ON TRACK TO ZERO CARBON BY 2020
Ongoing community The Zero Carbon Evolution strategy
will be reviewed annually to 2020
Over the next six years to 2020
there are likely to be major shifts in
engagement and review to track progress and to ensure that technology and the social and political
the strategies, actions and priorities context that ‘change the game’ in
of strategy are still relevant to achieving the terms of action on climate change.
As a key part of the implementation 2020 goals in light of the broader For example, smart technology
of this strategy, Council and MEFL technical and socio-political context. already provides customers with
will establish a twice-yearly forum for The Moreland community’s progress real-time data on their energy
representatives from the community in reducing carbon emissions will be consumption. Combined with
to come together to provide input monitored and reported to the public ‘time-of-use’ electricity prices and
into key issues that arise from the at the end of each financial year to smart appliances, households and
actions in the Zero Carbon Evolution 2020. businesses will gain much greater
strategy. These are likely to include In 2017, a Zero Carbon Evolution control over how much electricity they
issues related to Council’s investment Summit will be held to bring consume and when they use it.
decisions, the appropriateness of together key stakeholders, partner
carbon offsetting, investment in new organisations and representatives
gas infrastructure and a review of the from the Moreland community to
notion of the carbon budget and how take stock, thoroughly re-assess the
the globe is tracking against it. final three years of this strategy and
Each forum will be informed by the re-direct efforts and resources if
current climate science and any necessary.
new research or advancement in Council will also work with MEFL
our understanding of what needs to establish an online collaboration
to be done. The forums will also space to link people with projects,
canvass new opportunities to achieve share ideas, celebrate wins, promote
significant emissions reductions opportunities and grow the number
through direct local action or new of people involved in the zero carbon
advocacy efforts. Implementation evolution.
of this strategy will build on existing The success of this strategy clearly
community partnerships and require relies on the decisions and actions
the development of new ones, with of a number of key players including
the forums being a key mechanism the Victorian and Commonwealth
for initiating and strengthening Governments, electricity distribution
partnerships. companies and public transport
operators. For example, the
Commonwealth Government’s current
renewable energy target (RET)
will ensure that 20 percent of grid
electricity comes from renewable
sources by 2020. If the RET
legislation is dismantled or the target
weakened, this makes the goal of
significant emissions reductions in
Moreland more difficult.
14 Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland communityGETTING ON TRACK TO ZERO CARBON BY 2020
Key guiding principles The shift towards a zero carbon
future requires fundamental change
“We can imagine homes with new
ways of entertaining, securing,
The following key principles will in the way our city operates and the cleaning, cooking, heating and
guide Moreland’s shift towards a zero way that we operate in our city. This cooling. We can imagine homes
carbon future: includes: that don’t need very much energy
>> Generating local renewable energy, at all.”
or purchasing renewable energy from Dr Yolande Strengers, Centre for Urban
1. Re-imagining our urban Research, RMIT University, 2014
systems the grid
>> Being smarter about how we use
Climate change presents a set of Responding to climate change
complex, interlinked challenges to energy in our homes
provides us with the opportunity
the way our economy and society >> Integrating daily exercise with travel
and the imperative to re-define
are structured. The most critical by walking, cycling or catching public our streets and neighbourhoods.
immediate task is to de-carbonise our transport Actions to reduce emissions will
economy, essentially eliminating our >> Buying and wasting less. not only minimise the impacts of
dependency on the burning of fossil climate change but also provide
Emerging smart technology such
fuels for economic growth. opportunities for recreation and
as energy storage, smart meters,
Early action to reduce carbon time-of-use pricing and electrical exercise, place-making, community
emissions provides clear opportunities load shifting is anticipated to provide involvement, social cohesion and
for Moreland. It is less expensive and significant opportunities to reduce mental, emotional and spiritual well-
less risky to take strong action on energy consumption to 2020. Smart being. We have an opportunity to
climate change before 2020, rather technology can help us better re-create our city as a place that will
than delaying action into an uncertain understand and manage our energy sustain us into the future.
future. Cities that act now on climate use in real-time and provides the
change will benefit by capturing new opportunity to create less electricity-
market opportunities, preventing intensive lives.
lock-in of more emissions intensive
infrastructure and minimising
economic and social disruption in the
future.
CASE STUDY
Brunswick Secondary
College
Brunswick Secondary College raised
$25,000 through donations from
parents and the school community to
upgrade their solar power system from
25 to 100 solar panels this year. The
panels will generate enough power
each year to power the equivalent of 10
The panels will generate
typical Brunswick houses. It saves the
enough power each year to
school money, reduces greenhouse gas power the equivalent of 10
emissions and helps the students learn typical Brunswick houses.
about climate change. The school is also
making changes to use less energy such
as replacing lighting, fridges and copy
machines.
Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community 15GETTING ON TRACK TO ZERO CARBON BY 2020
2. Including all Moreland Council, CERES Environment Park Moreland has a long-standing
people and the Moreland Energy Foundation reputation as a community working
The first people of Moreland, the are already working with residents towards sustainability. Within
Wurundjeri clans of the Woiworrung and businesses to address the this decade, low-carbon ways of
people, lived along the Merri challenges of climate change. Groups living, working, getting around and
and Moonee Ponds Creeks and of people all over the municipality socialising must become our new
managed the land sustainably for are coming together to work on normal. Part of the transition to a
many thousands of years. Today, local food production, community zero carbon future is to create new
our community comprises a highly solar power, swapping and sharing, expectations of a community that
diverse mix of cultures with Moreland bicycle advocacy and transitioning proudly lives and works within its
residents speaking more than 140 to low carbon ways of living. Schools carbon budget and continually strives
different languages at home. Our are installing solar power systems, towards lighter carbon footprints.
diverse community possesses residents are using energy more This involves clearly defining and
valuable knowledge, skills and efficiently and climate action groups understanding appropriate levels of
experience with living simply and are campaigning for systemic change. consumption and waste and creating
sustainably. There are significant By getting involved in re-shaping their new social norms around how we
opportunities to learn from each other own neighbourhoods, ordinary people consume energy and goods.
and engage many more people in are leading the transition to our zero It is critically important that everyone,
local action on climate change. carbon future. especially the most vulnerable people
The community is clearly ready to in our community, have access to the
take action. opportunities that arise in the shift to
our zero carbon future.
CASE STUDY
Fawkner Food Swap
Whether you have small herbs in pots or
a backyard jungle, Fawkner Food Swap
attracts a range of people from different
cultures who swap seasonal home-
grown edibles such as fruit, veggies,
herbs and preservatives. The Food Swap
is a great place for newly-arrived people
and long-time locals from all walks of life
to learn from each other, swap recipes, 2nd Saturday each month, at
reduce food waste and share gardening Fawkner Community House.
tips. Food Swappers benefit from the
relaxation that gardening brings to their
lives, while saving money and eating
healthily.
Fawkner Community House, Jukes Rd.
www.fawkner.org/food-produce-swap/
16 Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland communityGETTING ON TRACK TO ZERO CARBON BY 2020
3. Investing for our future Moreland City Council is committed to
assessing the appropriateness of new Moreland City Council
Making a meaningful shift towards a recognises the broader impacts
zero carbon community will require natural gas infrastructure compared
to renewable energy infrastructure of its investment decisions on
significant investment in equipment, Australia’s carbon emissions
infrastructure and programs to on a case-by-case basis in terms of
the carbon reduction potential and profile. From 2014, Council
achieve emissions reductions on tenders for finance contracts
the scale required. Council will cost implications over the life of the
technology employed. require specification of the
play a lead role in facilitating and applicant’s climate risk policy,
leveraging investment from State The climate change science now
financed emissions and
and Commonwealth Governments confirms that financial investments
investment in clean energy.
and private investors. Large-scale in fossil fuel stocks are becoming
These criteria will be given fair
investment will be required from a increasingly risky as the evidence
weighting in the decision to invest
range of sources using innovative deems a significant quantity of fossil
Council funds and reported on
financing models. fuel reserves as ‘unburnable’ if we are
and managed over the life of the
Fortunately, investment in actions to to avoid dangerous climate change.
contract.
reduce emissions usually provides The shift to a low-carbon economy
savings in operational energy provides a tremendous opportunity for
costs, so strong financial returns investment in renewable energy and
are available. In addition, the social low-emissions technology.
and environmental returns on an
investment to reduce emissions are
potentially enormous. Investment that
creates healthier, safer communities
that are better prepared for the
imminent challenges of climate
change provides immeasurable
positive returns.
Investment decisions made at this
point in the transition to our zero
carbon future need to carefully weigh
up the costs and benefits from both
a carbon emission perspective and
financial perspective over the life of
the technology employed. CASE STUDY
Over the past decade, technology that
uses natural gas has been considered Dolce Vita Cakes
preferable to electricity for reducing
emissions. Today, with changing gas Installing solar panels is paying off
markets and advances in distributed for Coburg North business Dolce
renewable electricity generation, a Vita Cakes. The 30kW system (120
case-by-case assessment is needed panels) allows the cake factory to
to determine the most suitable power its freezers and cool rooms
technology to invest in. It is critical with solar power during the day,
that this assessment is scaled to dramatically reducing their energy
the lifespan of the technology to costs and carbon emissions. Not only
avoid making decisions that lock-in is solar a clever business decision for Dolce Vita Cakes, already
emissions intensive or expensive Dolce Vita Cakes, it also protects the reducing their electricity
business against rising energy costs bill by almost half.
infrastructure for short-term gain.
Technologies that rely on natural and positions them as a sustainable
gas are increasingly risky in terms manufacturer.
of both future costs and emissions 28 Catherine St, Coburg North.
reductions. www.dolcevitacakes.com.au
Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community 17GETTING ON TRACK TO ZERO CARBON BY 2020
4. Adapting as our climate 5. A whole-of-government and
changes community approach
The impacts of climate change Shifting towards a zero carbon
are already being experienced Moreland requires fundamental re-
in the form of longer and hotter designing of our city and our lives
heat waves, increased average within it – from the way our precincts
temperatures, higher bushfire risk and buildings are designed, to
and changes to rainfall patterns. investment in transport infrastructure,
Governments, businesses, individuals to urban vegetation, to lifestyles that
and communities need to take create less waste.
steps to prepare for and adapt to It will rely on significant effort
the climate as it changes. Climate and investment from across
change adaptation provides a the community and all levels
huge opportunity to re-think old of Government. At the Local
assumptions and build new systems Government level, a whole-of-Council
to prepare our communities approach is critical as emissions are
effectively for the future. directly related to transport, buildings,
A key part of this adaptation involves energy supply, waste and urban form.
building the resilience of individuals Also, the impacts of climate change
and the community, that is, the will be felt across Council portfolios
ability to cope with the disturbances particularly health and wellbeing, city
to our lives caused by climate infrastructure, social development,
change as they occur. Community economic development and open
connectedness and local networks space.
are strong contributors to community
resilience and the ability to recover
from shocks.
Strategies that provide the dual
benefits of reducing greenhouse
gas emissions while helping our
community to adapt to a changing
climate are likely to be more cost-
effective and provide greater social
and environmental benefits. For CASE STUDY
example, building energy efficient
houses provides dual benefits: East Brunswick
less energy is consumed (lowering
greenhouse gas emissions) and Kindergarten and
the residents are more comfortable
on extreme weather days and less
Childcare
affected by rising electricity costs East Brunswick Kindergarten and
(adapting to a changing climate). Childcare are proving that it’s never too
Maintaining and improving vegetation early to start living sustainably. They
and urban greenery across Moreland have solar panels, rainwater tanks, worm
will also be critical in helping the farms and a veggie patch and use natural
community to adapt to climate and recycled materials. This brings The kids are taught to
change. financial benefits for the centre, including incorporate sustainable
substantially reduced energy bills, but the practices into their lives
environmental benefits and educating
the kids to live sustainably is the biggest
reward for the centre.
18 Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland communityACTION PLAN
Action plan Partnerships will be a critical aspect
of the delivery of this strategy to
achieve the scale and reach required.
Zero carbon evolution This will include implementation in
partnership with the Northern Alliance
strategies for Greenhouse Action (NAGA),
Achieving a 22 percent reduction in Municipal Association Victoria and
community carbon emissions by 2020 the Council Alliance for a Sustainable
is an ambitious goal, but Moreland is Built Environment (CASBE). Delivery
ready for and up to the challenge. The partnerships will also be developed
goal will only be achievable through with local businesses, education and
collaborative effort, partnerships and training providers, universities and
commitment across the Moreland community groups.
community. A Zero Carbon Evolution Advocacy
The Zero Carbon Evolution strategies, Plan will be developed to accompany
outlined in this section, are equally this strategy that will outline the
ambitious and reflect the magnitude key advocacy points under each
of the task. Each strategy is designed action and how Council will work to
to reach specific goals by 2020 influence other levels of government
which, if successful, will result in and key stakeholders throughout
a community on track to carbon implementation of the strategy.
neutrality.
The strategies modelled assume that
current State and Commonwealth
policy remains in place to 2020,
and that there is significant take-
up and investment by the Moreland
community and all levels of
Government.
Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community 19ACTION PLAN
Contribution of each strategy
to the 2020 goal
The contribution of each strategy to the overall goal
Strategy 1: Generating local renewable energy 9.0%
Strategy 2: Using energy efficiently 3.0%
Strategy 3: Low-emissions transport 7.1%
Strategy 4: Minimising urban heat island effects Significant post 2020
Strategy 5: Activating the community to reduce 3.5%
emissions
Total 22.6%
The investment required to implement
the Zero Carbon Evolution strategy
will need to come from a range of
sources, including:
>> Council’s annual budget allocation
process
>> Leveraged support from key project
delivery partners
>> State and Commonwealth funding
streams and grant programs
>> the Moreland community, including
residents, businesses and others.
20 Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland communityACTION PLAN
Strategy 1: Generating A major force in the global shift to
renewable energy has been the
local renewable energy recent ‘solar revolution’. Due to falling
manufacturing costs, the price of
2020 goals solar panels dropped from $12 per
watt to $2 per watt over the four
>> Solar on 21,200 homes (42.4 MW) years to 2013. In 2012, Australian
>> Solar on 1,200 businesses (27.6 households invested nearly $3 billion
MW) of their own money to generate
>> 27 community-owned solar power from solar on their rooftops5.
systems (2.7 MW) At the end of 2013, Australia
>> Solar on 60 community buildings, reached 3 gigawatts of rooftop solar
including schools and sports photovoltaic (PV) installed, over 15
clubs (1.2 MW) times as much as was installed in
2009. Fourteen percent of dwellings
Policy and context across Australia now have a solar PV
A profound shift towards renewable system installed.
energy is taking place around the In Moreland, solar PV systems are
world. Globally, the capacity of currently installed on 3,500 rooftops
installed renewable energy doubled (6.3% of total dwellings)6. The
between 2000 and 2012. concentration of rooftop solar PV in
In 2014, around 14 percent of Moreland is similar to neighbouring
Australia’s electricity supply is municipalities but below the national
generated from renewable sources and Victorian averages, demonstrating
such as wind and solar4. The main potential for a significant scale-up.
driver of investment and growth
in renewable energy generation
has been the Commonwealth
Government’s Renewable Energy
Target (RET) scheme which is
designed to ensure that 20 per cent
of Australia’s electricity comes from
renewable sources by 2020. The RET
scheme is under review in the first
half of 2014.
Number of rooftop solar systems Percentage of dwellings with
installed (May 2014) rooftop solar installed (May 2014)
Australia 1,157,000 14%
Victoria 201,000 10%
Moreland 3,500 6.3%
Source: Australian PV Institute & Clean Energy Regulator, 2014
5 Australian PV Institute, 2014
4 Clean Energy Council, 2014 6 Australian Renewable Energy Agency, 2014
Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community 21ACTION PLAN
The case for solar PV in To ramp-up solar PV uptake across
Moreland Moreland, the following key barriers
Solar PV is one of the most cost- need to be overcome:
effective ways of reducing carbon >> Upfront capital cost of installing
emissions from household and systems, particularly for low income
business electricity use. Decreasing households
costs of solar combined with the >> Options for rental properties where
increasing cost of grid electricity the upfront cost is borne by the
have substantially improved the owner but the energy bill savings are
business case for solar over the past received by the tenants
five years. The upfront cost for a >> Accessing reliable, personalised
typical residential solar PV system information and high-quality
can typically be paid back through installations.
electricity bill savings within 5 to
6 years. The cost of rooftop solar Other key barriers are likely to
per kWh delivered is now generally emerge as the concentration of
equivalent to, or lower than, the cost rooftop solar in Moreland increases,
of grid electricity. such as grid capacity issues,
electricity retailing tariff issues and
Solar PV installations continue overshadowing and rights to solar
to grow as more householders, access.
organisations and businesses commit
to reducing their carbon emissions. MEFL is well positioned to facilitate a
Local generation of renewable large-scale roll out of solar PV across
energy also saves consumers money, the community, having established
protects against the rising costs of the Positive Charge enterprise
grid electricity, reduces electricity which is currently delivering solar to
demand peaks, reduces the likelihood households, businesses, schools and
of costly upgrades to the transmission community groups across Moreland
network and when combined with and other municipalities. The actions
battery storage, can provide security that MEFL and Council will undertake
of electricity supply during power under this strategy aim to achieve
outages. a significant scale-up of locally
generated renewable energy.
The potential for rooftop solar PV in
Moreland is huge. Analysis by MEFL
in 2013 found that if all occupied
residential dwellings had the largest
solar PV systems that their roofs
could support, Moreland could
produce 215.2 GWh of electricity
per year, which is 91% of its yearly
electricity usage7.
7 Moreland Energy Foundation Ltd, 2013
22 Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland communityACTION PLAN
Strategy 1: Generating local renewable energy
Key actions
Action Lead Timeframe Resources Outputs
Responsibility
1.1 Provide households and MEFL with 2014–2020 • Delivered by MEFL’s • Annual increase in
businesses with access to support (Beginning Positive Charge number of solar PV
low-interest finance for solar from in second enterprise, funded systems installed on
PV systems that can be paid Council’s half of directly by households homes in Moreland
back through an additional Finance 2014) or through access to • Rates payback
charge on their Council rates Unit low interest finance mechanism
over a period of up to 10 years • $40,000 Council implemented by
OPEX & $20,000 December 2014
from MEFL in 2014– • Financing mechanism
15 for resolving for solar for rental
issues with solar for properties and
rental properties owners corporations
established by June
2015
1.2 Offer attractive solar MEFL 2014–2020 • Delivered by MEFL’s • Annual increase in
PV system packages to (Beginning Positive Charge number of solar PV
businesses to demonstrate in second enterprise, funded systems installed
the financial and sustainability half of directly by businesses on businesses in
benefits of PV investment and 2014) or through access to Moreland
link businesses to low-interest low interest finance • Partnerships with local
finance • $60,000 Council electricity distribution
OPEX & $50,000 businesses
from MEFL in 2014– established by
15 for staff time and December 2014
communications • Engagement
resources to engage approach and
businesses and communications
households in solar materials for scaled-
roll-out up solar and energy
1.3 Work with local electricity MEFL 2014–2020 • Delivered by MEFL’s efficiency roll-out
distribution businesses to Positive Charge to households
(Beginning and businesses
install solar PV systems in in second enterprise, funded
precincts where additional directly by businesses established by Dec
half of 2014
power generation will relieve 2014) or through access to
pressure on the electricity grid low interest finance
Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community 23ACTION PLAN
Action Lead Timeframe Resources Outputs
Responsibility
1.4 Establish the Moreland MEFL 2014–2020 • Delivered through • Moreland Community
Community Solar Co- (Beginning the establishment Solar Co-operative
operative, working with in second of the Moreland established by Dec
Climate Action Moreland and half of Community Solar 2014
other community members to 2014) Co-operative. The co- • Administrative
enable community investor- operative will be able mechanisms to pay
funded solar PV systems to receive investment dividends established
across the municipality contributions from by Dec 2014
community members
• Annual increase in
and pay dividends.
number of community-
• $30,000 Council owned solar PV
OPEX in 2014–15 systems installed in
for establishing legal Moreland
and admin structure
• Annual increase in
for Co-op and
number of Moreland
market research re
Community Solar Co-
community willingness
operative members
to invest
• Market research
undertaken regarding
community willingness
to invest in solar by
end 2014
1.5 Provide low-interest loans to MEFL 2014–2020 • Schools and • Annual increase in
facilitate the installation of (Beginning community groups number of solar PV
solar PV systems on schools, in second access funding systems installed on
sporting clubs and other half of through the Moreland schools, sporting clubs
community buildings 2014) Energy Partnership and other community
Fund and pay back to buildings in Moreland
MEP over an agreed
timeframe
• $45,000 from MEFL
in 2014–15 to
support and fund solar
roll-out on schools/
community buildings
($200K revolving
from the MEP fund)
24 Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland communityACTION PLAN
What do we need others to Victorian Government
do? >> Take the lead in enabling planning
decision-making for ensuring rights to
Commonwealth Government solar access
>> Retain and strengthen the Renewable >> Provide support and resources for
Energy Target climate change action at the local
>> Increase national emissions reduction government level
targets in line with the climate >> Ensure policy consistency to reduce
science business and investment uncertainty
>> Remove barriers and provide market
incentives for increased deployment Electricity Distributors
of distributed generation, including >> Recognise the value of solar to the
clear and streamlined regulatory grid
and administrative processes for >> Work in partnership with local
connection to the grid
communities to implement a
>> Regulate for a fair and reasonable planned approach to increasing the
return for small-scale renewable concentration of solar in the grid
energy generators
>> Enable electricity to be traded across Moreland People
property boundaries (virtual net >> Invest in rooftop or community solar
metering) >> Take a longer term view to assessing
>> Provide support and resources for
energy costs and investment in
climate change action at the local sustainable energy
government level >> Recognise the social and
>> Ensure policy consistency to reduce
environmental benefits of low-carbon
business and investment uncertainty households and business operations
>> Work together to achieve win-win
outcomes regarding access to solar
energy on rooftops
Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community 25ACTION PLAN
Strategy 2: Using energy Policy and context To strengthen the policy basis for
Over the past thirty years significant the Sustainable Design Assessment
efficiently developments have occurred in in the Planning Process (SDAPP),
policy and legislation related to Moreland Council (along with
2020 goals energy efficiency, driven by the need five other Councils) proposes to
to respond to climate change and implement the new Environmentally
>> Energy efficiency retrofits on
the opportunity to reduce energy Sustainable Design Local Planning
36,000 homes (average energy Policy into the respective Planning
consumption reduction of 20% per costs and improve building comfort.
These have included reforms to Schemes. This will formalise the
household) requirement for sustainable design to
>> 40% reduction in energy
building and planning requirements,
market incentives and rebates for be addressed at the permit stage.
consumption for 9,000 new Council is also leading the
the uptake of energy efficiency
buildings development of a new online tool to
technologies and improved energy
>> Energy efficiency improvements performance standards and labelling assist the SDAPP process and the
for 1,400 Moreland businesses for appliances. community in sustainability decision-
Emerging factors, such as the making during building design, the
introduction of ‘time-of-use’ energy Built Environment Sustainability
pricing for customers, real-time data Scorecard (BESS).
on energy consumption available
through smart technology and the Moreland City Council partnered
mandatory disclosure of the energy with five other Councils to
performance of buildings will also propose a new Environmentally
significantly influence the demand- Sustainable Development Local
side management of energy. Planning Policy amendment
(Amendment C71). The policy
Energy consumption in buildings requires best practice energy
accounts for 60 percent of the efficiency outcomes for a range
Moreland community’s carbon of new developments. Following
emissions. Council has taken a a highly supportive report
leadership role in implementing from the Ministerial-appointed
local initiatives to improve energy Environmentally Efficient Design
efficiency, including driving Advisory Committee the next
sustainability through the planning step is to secure final approval
permit approvals process, significant by the Minister.
energy efficiency investment in
Council buildings and supporting the
work of MEFL.
26 Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland communityACTION PLAN
The case for energy Potential for energy Despite the strong financial returns
efficiency efficiency in Moreland and co-benefits derived from
Since 2010, the quantity of electricity MEFL has been working with the increasing the energy efficiency of
consumed in Australia each year has community on energy efficiency buildings, a number of significant
been decreasing for the first time for more than a decade. MEFL has barriers to further uptake exist,
in history. Electricity demand in the developed and delivered a broad including:
National Electricity Market was 4.3 range of programs including the >> Upfront capital costs and competition
percent lower in 2013 than it was in provision of information and advice with other purchases
2009. It is widely assumed that this is to local households, businesses and >> Lack of information and knowledge of
due to the impact of energy efficiency community groups, technical research, the opportunity by the building owner
programs and regulation, a structural training, direct retrofitting of homes >> Lack of knowledge or expertise by
change in the economy away from with energy efficiency technologies building designers, architects and
energy-intensive industries, the and raising awareness about climate tradespeople
uptake of rooftop solar PV and change. The Zero Carbon Moreland
>> Split incentives for rented premises.
a consumer response to higher program, part of the Solar Cities
electricity prices. The future trajectory Initiative, saw 4,000 Moreland MEFL and Council have already
for energy consumption in Australia is households sign up to take action to invested significantly in developing
highly uncertain. reduce their carbon emissions. Zero energy efficiency expertise, materials
In Moreland, average household Carbon Moreland also implemented and partnerships to deliver energy
electricity consumption has energy efficiency makeovers for over efficiency solutions in the Moreland
decreased by an average of 1.3 1,000 low-income homes. community on a larger-scale.
percent per year from 2004 to 2011. In 2011, there were around 61,000
Average household gas consumption households in Moreland. It is The ABS Household Energy
has decreased by an average of estimated that the growth rate of Consumption Survey (2012)
1.6 percent per year over the same new buildings in Moreland will be showed that Moreland was
period. approximately 3 percent per annum one of the three regions
to 2020. New development is largely in Victoria with the lowest
Measures that lead to more efficient average household electricity
use of energy in buildings are often infill or redevelopment of past
industrial sites and is predominantly consumption
the most cost-effective way to reduce
carbon emissions. The upfront cost residential.
of energy efficiency measures are Although improved energy efficiency
usually paid back very quickly due to standards for new buildings are
significant savings on energy bills. critical, the greatest reductions
The co-benefits are also substantial: in energy consumption to 2020
more affordable housing due to lower will need to be achieved through
operating costs, more comfortable retrofitting existing built form.
homes in winter and summer, Existing housing stock (constructed
increased business productivity, pre-1991) is likely to have an
and improved understanding and average energy efficiency thermal
management of energy by the performance rating of 1.3 stars
consumer. (compared with the current 6 star
standard), revealing the scale of the
opportunity to reduce emissions.
Zero Carbon E
volution Getting on track to a carbon neutral Moreland community 27You can also read
