$16.4m for 37 grants to cut office emissions

Greenhouse gas emissions will be cut by around 38,000 tonnes a year through 37 green building projects announced by Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research.

“$16.4 million worth of projects make up the third round of the $90 million Green Building Fund, a Rudd government initiative that reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by retrofitting commercial office buildings,” Senator Carr said.

“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.

“By increasing energy efficiency, successful recipients are reducing their power bills along with their greenhouse emissions and that means ongoing savings for business.

“One project involves the sustainable redevelopment of a historic building in Port Adelaide, introducing electricity generation on site and incorporating renewable systems which export to the grid.

“Alterations will also include the installation of high-performance glazing, skylights, low-energy lighting systems, bulk insulation and external shading devices.

Other successful projects in round 3 include:

• upgrades to heating, ventilation and air conditioning (new chillers, variable speed drives, etc),
• installation of solar panels and solar film, and
• replacement of base building lighting.

The next rounds for Streams A and B of the program will close on 12 January 2010,” Senator Carr said.

For further information on the Green Building Fund program, visit www.ausindustry.gov.au, call the hotline on 13 28 46 or email the hotline at hotline@ausindustry.gov.au.