$16m grants to help Australian offices go green

The 37 projects shared AU$16.4m, the latest slice of cash under the federal government’s Green Building Fund and will lead to a reduction in carbon emissions of 38,000 tonnes a year.

“$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 retro-fitting commercial office buildings,” Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research.

“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.”

Sam Bond