Rockhampton Airport to go solar as part of Reef Action Plan
Published on 07 May 2024
A major solar energy project is on the horizon for the Rockhampton Airport, thanks to a $920,000 funding boost from the Federal Government’s Reef Guardian Councils Program.
Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said he was thrilled by the announcement, and that it’s a testament to the strong partnership between Council and the Australian Government.
“Council has been a proud member of the Reef Guardian Councils Program for over a decade and installation of solar at the Rockhampton Airport is a key action outlined in Council’s Reef Action Plan,” Mayor Williams said.
“With the installation of solar at the Glenmore Water Treatment Plant nearing completion, we are turning our focus toward Council’s second highest electricity consumer, the Rockhampton Airport.
“These projects not only bring environmental and cost benefits, but they are good for our local economy – employing local contractors and supporting local businesses.
“This is an important partnership between the Australian Government and local councils which will mean better outcomes for the reef, local waterways and local communities.”
The Fitzroy River is the Rockhampton region’s major waterway and the largest river catchment flowing to the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.
Through its participation in the Reef Guardians Program, Council is strongly committed to taking a proactive approach of its stewardship of the local environment and reducing its grid electricity consumption and associated emissions.
The Federal grants have been specifically designed to help Reef Guardian Councils’ tackle the key threats to the Reef and recognises climate change as its single greatest threat.
Special Envoy for the Great Barrier Reef, Senator Nita Green, said Reef Guardian Councils, whether they are big or small, play an important role in addressing climate change and improving the health of our Great Barrier Reef.
“There are nineteen councils between Bundaberg and Cooktown in the Reef Guardian Councils Program, spanning an area of more than 300,000 square kilometres,” Senator Green said.
“I’m proud to support our Reef Guardian Councils to deliver local, practical projects right along the coast and in our Reef catchments that will make a real difference to their communities, while also contribute to improving the health of the Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system in the world.”
Read more information on Council’s Reef Action Plan here.