One community organisation has received a grant for a solar system, which will pave the way for cheaper electricity bills and environmental benefits.
The Gosnells Community Men’s Shed is the latest recipient of the Australian Government’s Solar Communities Program, which will see nearly $8000 donated to the organisation to fit the new system.
Acting chairman Alan Gordon said many members of the Men’s Shed were delighted to hear about the grant, which would deliver much-needed financial assistance for many of the shed’s development projects.
“The grant will enable us to reduce our daytime power consumption considerably,” he said.
“Power costs are the biggest single expense for the shed at present and the grant should enable management to maintain membership fees at the same level and avoid an increase.”
Mr Gordon said the organisation had considered installing solar panels in the past but the cost and some technical difficulties got in the way.
He said the solar system is likely to be installed by September.
The Solar Communities Program is administered through the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science, in cooperation with the Department of Environment and Energy.
WA Liberal Senator Linda Reynolds said the program has helped groups in the cities of Armadale, Gosnells and parts of Canning to install rooftop solar photovoltaic, solar hot water and solar-connected battery systems.
“The Gosnells Community Men’s Shed is a wonderful resource for local men and I’m thrilled that they will be able to use this grant to save money, which can then be diverted into one of their fantastic projects,” she said.
