Brimbank City Council has taken out the Community Champion Award in the Sustainable Places Category at the Victorian Premier’s Sustainability Awards for the Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre – Australia’s first 100% renewable energy-powered, zero greenhouse gas emissions aquatic centre.
The centre uses an integrated four-pipe heat pump for simultaneous use in pool, domestic water, space heating and cooling. This is combined with a heat recovery system, 500kW onsite rooftop solar PV and a thermal energy storage system with a 88,000L capacity.
Compared to a conventional gas-powered design, the all-electric and renewable energy powered centre is 76% more energy efficient overall and is modelled to avoid 1,192 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per year, a reduction of approximately 17% of the Council’s overall annual greenhouse emissions.
In an address celebrating the 21st Premier’s Sustainability Awards, Victorian Minister for Environment, Steve Dimopoulos said he was proud of the journey Victorians are taking to make the state more sustainable and acknowledged the work of the leaders and change makers to reduce waste, boost recycling and use our precious resources carefully.
Sustainability Victoria’s Interim CEO, Matt Genevers applauded Brimbank City Council for taking action to bring about positive change.
“With the Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre, Brimbank City Council has challenged the status quo and shown true leadership in Sustainable Places. I feel inspired to hear their story and learn about the difference they’re making,” he said.
The Premier’s Sustainability Awards is Victoria’s most prestigious annual sustainability awards program celebrating the businesses, government and community leading the way in sustainable innovation and practices.
There are two winners for each of the six categories, which were refreshed in 2021 to align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals; the blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. The Community Champion Award recognises individuals and small organisations, and the Industry Leader Award celebrates medium and large organisations driving a sustainable future.
To view the profiles of all winners and finalists, visit www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/psa-2023-winners.
