Power and Water Grant Saves Money and Energy

There is 160 tonnes less carbon dioxide in the world’s atmosphere this year as a result of the energy-conscious efforts of some 85 Territory families, according to environmental organisation, COOLmob.

COOLmob Project Manager, Thea Bray, says household energy audits of the 85 households helped reduce emissions by just short of two tonnes of carbon dioxide each household.

“On average, households in Darwin are each responsible for emitting 12 tonnes of greenhouse gases each year,” she says.

“Or, to put it another way, every day, we are each responsible for emitting about 10 kilos of carbon dioxide.”

A Power and Water Environmental Excellence Awards Grant paid for energy audits of 50 of the 85 households, allowing Territory families to be provided with advice tailored to their homes and lifestyle so they can most effectively reduce greenhouse gases.

The audit, which covers household use of electricity, transport and waste, identifies excessive and unnecessary consumption. A bonus is that households can save hundreds of dollars a year.

Since it began its work in June 2002 COOLmob estimates a total saving of 600 tonnes of carbon dioxide.

“That's more than enough greenhouse gases to fill the Territory Parliament House and we hope to save enough carbon dioxide to fill four Parliament Houses by June 2007,” says Ms Bray.

“Initially our aim was to help 100 households each save 750 kg of carbon dioxide per year, but we have now been able to help over 200 households save 1,900 kg per household per year, so have doubled our target both in terms of households and greenhouse gas abatement,” she says.

Savings often come from simple adjustments, such as improving passive cooling, using timers on electric hot water heaters and air conditioners and reducing car use.

This year’s Power and Water Environmental Excellence Awards Winners were announced on 9 June. The awards are run annually to recognise Territorians who are doing the right thing by the environment. So if you know of an individual or business who takes care of the environment let us know about them. Freecall 1800 245 092 or visit www.powerwater.com.au.

Contact: Annie Darcy, Media Manager, Corporate Communications
0401 117 599 or 8924 7488

Authorised by Kim Wood on behalf of the Power and Water Corporation, Cavenagh Street, Darwin.