FAQs

The REERP is Council's roadmap for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from its own operations and progressing towards net zero emissions through practical and cost-effective actions.

The review assesses progress made since the previous plan, updates Council's emissions inventory, identifies new opportunities for emissions reduction and sets targets for future action.

The Plan covers emissions from Council operations, including:

• Electricity used in buildings, facilities and street lighting
• Fleet vehicles and plant
• Water and wastewater services
• Landfill operations
• Council's supply chain and purchased goods and services (Scope 3 emissions)

Council's corporate emissions for 2024/25 were calculated at approximately 32,438 tCO₂-e (excluding scope 3 emissions) or 58,678 tCO₂-e (including scope 3 emissions).

The largest sources are:

• Purchased goods and services (Scope 3 emissions)
• Landfill operations
• Electricity consumption
• Fleet fuel use
• Water and wastewater treatment

The largest sources are:

• Purchased goods and services (Scope 3 emissions)
• Landfill operations
• Electricity consumption
• Fleet fuel use
• Water and wastewater treatment

Scope 3 emissions are indirect emissions that occur outside Council's direct control, such as emissions associated with suppliers, contractors, materials and services purchased by Council.

No. This Plan focuses on emissions from Council's own operations. Community-wide emissions are outside the scope of this review.

The draft review proposes a corporate net zero emissions target by 2040, based on the latest science-derived targets and the inclusion of all emission sources.

The previous target focused on a more limited emissions inventory. The updated target reflects a more comprehensive understanding of Council's emissions, including landfill and Scope 3 emissions.

Key proposed actions include:

• Purchasing 100% renewable electricity
• Installing additional solar systems and batteries
• Improving energy efficiency in buildings
• Transitioning fleet vehicles to electric vehicles
• Reducing supply chain emissions
• Improving sustainable procurement practices

Reducing emissions can help:

• Lower Council operating costs over time
• Improve energy efficiency
• Reduce environmental impacts
• Demonstrate local leadership on climate action
• Support long-term community sustainability

Many actions are expected to deliver long-term savings through reduced electricity and fuel costs. Detailed business cases and funding opportunities will be considered before implementation.

Council welcomes community feedback on the draft Plan. Feedback received during the consultation period will be reviewed and considered before a final plan is presented for adoption.

The full draft Renewable Energy and Emissions Reduction Plan Review and supporting emissions inventory are available on Council's website and consultation portal.

Council will consider all submissions, make any necessary amendments, and present the final Plan to Council for consideration and adoption.