Energy and Carbon

Why is this important?

Our buildings account for 72% of our City’s emissions (2,081,000 tonnes CO₂e). 75% of building emissions come from non-residential sources. 1% of the City’s energy currently comes from renewable sources.

To do more with less we need to improve the efficiency of all our buildings – both new and existing ones. This will not only reduce household and business energy costs but also make our buildings and homes more efficient and fit for the future.

This is a major task, as modelling shows that a business-as-usual approach with our predicted population, job and housing growth will result in a 42% rise in energy emissions across our Local Government Areas by 2038.

The key opportunities Council has identified include a 35% reductions from known technology and policy, with a strong focus on renewables. The remaining 25% required to meet our 2038 emissions target of 60% will be met through future technology and policy changes.

Emissions from waste to landfill generated 183,000 tonnes CO₂e (2017).

As a leading city, we will play our part to reduce emissions, while continuing to grow our economy. We believe this is the best thing for our country.

Goal

60% emissions reduction by 2038 (based on 2015 levels)

50% of electricity demand to be met by renewable energy by 2038

What we’re already doing

• Drafted new planning controls for the Parramatta CBD setting best practice energy targets for new developments
• Supporting the retrofit of two buildings in the Parramatta CBD through Environmental Upgrade Agreement Financing, valued at $1.8 million, with $352,000 saved annually
• Offering solar energy advice for residents across our Local Government Area through the Australian Energy Foundation.
• City of Parramatta Council’s electricity supply is now powered by 100 percent renewable energy following a landmark deal with ZEN Energy, delivered in partnership with Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (SSROC).  

The first of its kind for Council, the new 30KW solar panel canopy on the rooftop of Justice Precinct Car Park provides shade and weather protection to vehicles and reduces radiant heat impact. It will also reduce the site’s electricity consumption by around 40% and provides for the installation of EV charging infrastructure in the future.

Our Actions (1–4 years)

Develop an Energy Implementation Plan which addresses:

• How we support renewable energy for residents, businesses and other significant land users and partnership opportunities for large scale solar
• Investigate planning and development controls for energy efficiency and renewables in new growth precincts
• Energy efficiency and thermal performance opportunities for existing buildings
• Advocate for higher new building standards, new policy and technology for increased renewable energy, reduction in greenhouse gas emissions
• Engagement with developers and utilities to encourage renewable and low carbon energy options across new developments and key growth precincts

Working with all levels of government, industry and education to identify future technology and infrastructure opportunities for the City.

For more information

Contact the Customer Service Centre on:

Phone: (02) 9806 5050 

Email: council@cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au