Council Saves Ratepayers Money Through Smart Energy Practices

Smart energy practices are saving The Hills Shire Council more than $40,000 in operating costs, which General Manager Dave Walker said means a better deal for ratepayers.

“Council is using smart energy efficient practices to reduce costs, freeing up funds to be spent on services,” Mr Walker said.

“Over the past three years, electricity consumption across all three Council-owned meters has reduced by 5.5 per cent, saving Council 67,987 kilowatt-hour (kWh).

“Apart from using energy efficient practices, we have negotiated our electricity contract and this agreement has resulted in a saving of three cents per kWh (from 17 cents per /kWh to 14 cents /kWh). This might sound like a small sum, but the savings do add up.

“The combined effect of energy saving measures and reduced electricity has saved Council $44,737 over a three-year period.”

The Hills Shire Council’s commitment to energy efficiency extends to informing residents on ways they can reduce waste safely in their household, as well as keeping money in their pockets.

A Save Big brochure has been delivered to every home in the Sydney Hills.

The document contains handy recycling pointers including a guide on acceptable food and waste scraps for worm and compost farms, free workshops, a mattress collection trial program, and many more environmental programs and events.  Mayor of The Hills Shire, Councillor Yvonne Keane, has encouraged everyone to do their part.

The Save Big brochure not only helps families save on everyday costs, it reinforces our commitment to making the Hills a great place to live,” Mayor Keane said.

“The actions we take at a local level today will have a long and lasting impact. Improving what we do in our home or at work can help in creating a better Shire for generations to come.”

For more information on The Hills Shire Council’s waste and recycling services, head to:thehills.nsw.gov.au/Services/For-Residents/Waste-Recycling.