Community groups across Forde will be supported by a new Federal Government program to lower energy costs, support local jobs, and help reduce global emissions.
The Powering Communities Program will fund up to 12 projects worth a total of $67,700 in our community. Grants of between $5,000 and $12,000 will be available to eligible community organisations, with no co-contribution required.
The grant will assist groups to lower their energy bills by installing solar panels or a battery, upgrading air conditioners, hot water systems, or a refrigerator with more efficient models, replacing lighting with LEDs, or conducting an energy audit.
Member for Forde, Bert van Manen said when not-for-profit groups invest in their community, it helps local economies to grow and supports local jobs.
“Energy bills are often one of the biggest overheads for not-for-profit organisations,” Mr van Manen said.
“Whether it’s a sports club, a senior citizens club or a charity group, by helping to reduce power bills, the grants will ease the financial pressure these organisations face so they can better focus on meeting the needs of our local community.
“We recognise the great work that many community groups across our electorate do and know that many have done it tough during COVID19. The program will help them to do what they do best, which is serve and support the community.
“I encourage local community to groups to contact my office via email to bert.vanmanen.mp@aph.gov.au to receive an Expression Of Interest form and return it to my office by Wednesday 28 April.”
The Powering Communities Program will help community groups across Forde get control of their energy use, while helping to play a part in reducing global emissions and ensure a healthy environment for future generations.
