EARPPA nominated for National Awards for Local Government
The National Awards for Local Government shine a spotlight on the incredible projects councils are delivering in communities right across Australia. From grassroots initiatives to big ideas making a real impact, these awards celebrate the creativity, passion and dedication of local government in bringing people together and building stronger, more connected communities.
The City of Burnside has been nominated for three awards across the categories. To vote, register at the National Awards for Local Government: https://nalg.awardsplatform.com/
Nominated in the Environmental Sustainability category for the awards, the EARPPA was an agreement forged from innovation by a group of local Adelaide councils.
Faced with rising electricity costs and a commitment to sustainability, the City of Burnside, alongside six other eastern Adelaide councils, has played a key role in securing a Power Purchasing Agreement (PPA). This long-term deal for wind-generated electricity delivers both financial savings and significant emissions reductions.
The seven councils – Burnside, Norwood Payneham & St Peters, Prospect, Tea Tree Gully, Unley, Campbelltown, and Walkerville – aggregated their energy consumption to negotiate competitive pricing, creating a more attractive proposition for electricity retailers. The decision to collaborate was driven by three key factors: first, one council alone wouldn't consume enough electricity to access competitive market pricing; second, many had already taken steps toward reducing emissions, such as installing solar systems, making the purchase of renewable energy a logical next step; and third, the group’s consumption patterns aligned well with renewable energy, particularly wind, which is produced more efficiently overnight when streetlighting is at its highest.
The agreement allowed councils the flexibility to choose their approach: some opted for certified renewable electricity, while others focused on affordability. This innovative initiative not only benefits participating councils but also sets a precedent for others across South Australia. Through collaboration and strategic planning, these councils have demonstrated how local government can drive practical, cost-effective solutions for a more sustainable future.
City of Burnside CEO Julia Grant said the agreement would save $100,000 per annum - a massive saving for rate payers.
‘It is no longer the case that good business does not marry up with good environmental outcomes,’ Julia said.
‘This has been such a great outcome for our city that other councils are looking to us for advice for how they too can get the same success.’
To vote for the EARPPA, register at the National Awards for Local Government here: https://nalg.awardsplatform.com/
