Albanese Government Allocates $50 Million to Boost Community Energy Upgrades Across Australia

The Albanese Government has announced the second round of its $100 million Community Energy Upgrades Fund, supporting local councils in reducing energy costs and accelerating the shift toward energy-efficient community infrastructure.

A total of 66 local governments will share $50 million in grants aimed at lowering power bills through electrification and energy-efficiency upgrades in public facilities, including libraries, sports centres, community halls, and local swimming pools.

In Western Australia, eight local governments will receive more than $5 million to modernize ageing community infrastructure with solar installations, battery storage systems, and high-efficiency heating technologies.

The Shire of Esperance will receive $946,938 to install solar panels and batteries across 16 Shire buildings, tint windows on five others, and upgrade two key evacuation centres. The initiative also includes local workforce development and public education on energy efficiency.

The Shire of Narrogin has been allocated $535,358 to replace the gas boiler at the Narrogin Regional Leisure Centre with an electric heat pump supported by solar power. The upgrade is projected to reduce annual energy costs by more than $379,000 and cut 523 tonnes of emissions each year.

In the South West, the City of Bunbury will receive $1,201,814 to overhaul energy systems at the South West Sports Centre. Planned upgrades include replacing gas boilers with heat pumps, installing a 266 kW solar system, refurbishing the solar thermal system, upgrading the main switchboard, and deploying an advanced Building Management System.

The Shire of Mundaring will use its $158,542 grant to upgrade the pool heating system at the Bilgoman Aquatic Centre, prioritizing renewable energy to reduce gas dependency.

Nationally, the funding round includes 33 aquatic centre upgrades and 10 grants for smart electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Most projects incorporate solar panels, and more than half will include battery storage solutions.

Government Statements

Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, said the upgrades will help community facilities strengthen their services while lowering energy bills.
He added that the initiative demonstrates how “a cheaper, cleaner energy future” benefits both communities and the environment.

Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Josh Wilson, highlighted that the program will replace gas boilers with electric alternatives in public facilities, significantly reducing emissions and operational costs for councils.

Special Envoy for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience, Kate Thwaites, emphasised that local governments play a frontline role in responding to climate impacts. She said the investments will enhance community resilience and support long-term adaptation.