Albanese Government Funds $100 Million Community Energy Upgrades to Power Local Facilities with Clean Energy

The Albanese Government has announced a new round of grants under its $100 million Community Energy Upgrades Fund, aimed at driving energy efficiency and electrification projects across Australia’s local community facilities — from sports fields and pools to libraries and community halls.

In the second round of funding, 66 local governments across the country will share $50 million to implement energy-efficient and electrification upgrades that are expected to significantly reduce operational costs and emissions. The initiative builds on the first round, where 17 New South Wales (NSW) councils received support. In this latest round, an additional 23 NSW councils will receive a combined $21 million to modernize community infrastructure.

The upgrades will include the installation of solar panels, battery storage systems, and energy-efficient technologies at popular community spaces, with almost all projects incorporating solar and more than half integrating battery systems.

In Western Sydney, the Blacktown International Sports Park and Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre will install solar panels, battery storage, and LED lighting — reducing energy costs for sporting clubs and local residents.

In the Hunter region, the Charlestown Swim Centre will transition to electric power, with its pool and hot water systems powered by solar panels. The project is expected to help Lake Macquarie City Council save around $128,000 annually on energy bills.

Meanwhile, in South Western Sydney, the Mount Annan Leisure Centre, operated by the Council of Camden, will shift entirely to renewable energy by electrifying its spa boiler and café appliances, alongside expanding rooftop solar. The move is projected to cut energy use by 53% and save approximately $185,000 in operational costs.

In regional NSW, Griffith City Council will receive $2.5 million to upgrade its energy systems, replacing gas-dependent facilities with solar and battery-powered alternatives across water, wastewater, and indoor pool sites.

Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, emphasized the importance of the initiative in helping local governments reinvest savings into community programs.

“From the local cricket ground to the community library and swimming pool, these upgrades will deliver a cheaper, cleaner energy future for Australia. What’s good for the planet is good for the pocket,” Bowen said.

Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Josh Wilson, highlighted that the upgrades would lower emissions while reducing costs for councils.

“Replacing gas boilers with electric alternatives in public facilities like swimming pools will reduce energy use, cut emissions, and help local governments save on running costs,” Wilson stated.

Special Envoy for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience, Kate Thwaites, underscored the program’s role in building resilience to climate impacts such as floods and heatwaves.

“By investing in clean energy, we’re helping local governments strengthen their communities and prepare for the future. These projects show how practical climate action can save money today and protect communities tomorrow,” she said.

The Community Energy Upgrades Fund reflects the Albanese Government’s broader commitment to empowering local councils to lead Australia’s transition to cleaner, cheaper, and more resilient energy systems.