Lifesaving energy to come to Narooma

Narooma News
Wednesday 31/1/2007 Page: 29

THE Clean Energy for Eternity group have been busy on the Far South Coast of NSW with the launch on Saturday, January 20 of the renewable energy project for the Tathra Surf Lifesaving Club, and are now planning to spread their energy across NSW and the entire country.

Bega Valley mayor Tony Allen officially launched the project, which includes a wind turbine and solar photovoltaic cells on the roof of Tathra Surf Club. This will be followed by a solar hot water service, which will see the Surf Club running with a negligible carbon footprint.

The benefit of renewable energy for the surf club is threefold. The installation will save the surf club about $1000 per year on electricity bills which can be better utilised on lifesaving equipment. More will be saved following the installation of solar hot water system. Increase education and awareness of global warming and climate change and demonstrate solutions by showing the community renewable energy at work.

This project will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about three tonnes of per year. Although this may appear to be a modest start, collectively every little bit counts and will create a flow on effect.

The Tathra installation was supported by funds raised by local businesses and community members. The Department of Energy & Utilities (NSW) and the Greenhouse Office provided $4,000 as a rebate which is available to anyone who installs solar photovoltaic cells before July 2007.

Bega Valley Shire Council also was a major contributor matching funds raised by the community dollar for dollar. Clean Energy for Eternity are planning to fit out all surf clubs in the BVSC and Eurobodalla Shire Council areas with renewable energy before moving on to other surf clubs in the state.

Eurobodalla residents are confident Eurobodalla Shire Council will show the same support and follow in the footsteps of Bega Valley Council by also funding the surf clubs dollar for dollar. The next Clubs to be fitted out with renewable energy are Narooma Surf Lifesaving Club, with Broulee, Moruya and Batemans Bay to follow.

Clean Energy for Eternity is looking for local businesses and community members to support this initiative. For information call Julia Mayo-Ramsay 0419 848 057 or email surfclubpmject@yalwo. com. au