Media Release – Reef Guardian Council Solar - Integration Initiative

Hinchinbrook Shire Council is proud to be a Reef Guardian Council, an initiative of the Reef Authority delivering real outcomes for the Great Barrier Reef. The Reef Guardian Council Program is a partnership between Local Government and the Reef Authority which recognises that local and regional approaches are central to protecting and managing the health of the reef and the communities it supports.

As part of the program, participating Councils develop Action Plans that commit to delivering initiatives to minimise impacts, improve the world heritage values and support the resilience of the reef, which all contribute to the Reef 2050 Long-Term Sustainability Plan and the objectives of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975.

All participating Reef Guardian Councils received funding for a range of reef protection activities. Funding for installation of the Rooftop Solar Project has been provided to Hinchinbrook Shire Council from the Australian Government to support delivering projects and activities identified in our Reef Guardian Council Action Plan.

“Reef Guardian Councils vary greatly in their size and capacity but are all undertaking a variety of activities that help protect the long-term resilience of the Great Barrier Reef, including tackling climate change, managing impacts from land, and protecting, rehabilitating and restoring habitats.” said Rebecca Allen, Assistant Director Strategic Engagement, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

To address key threats under climate change, Council identified that strategically installing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems could substantially reduce its energy consumption, reducing our carbon footprint. The installation of rooftop solar on Council facilities is a transformative change and involves a series of well coordinated activities spread across the three years of available funding to ensure the successful integration of PV systems and contribute to Council’s sustainability goals. 

By integrating solar energy solutions into Council facilities, this project achieves a balance between environmental responsibility, financial efficiency, and community leadership. The multi-year endeavour sets a precedent for sustainable infrastructure development and underscores Council's dedication to positive change and forward thinking solutions.

Council is pleased to announce that the first stage of the project has been delivered with the successful installation of 100 kilowatts of solar added to the Lannercost Street building. Further installations at the TYTO Precinct, Ingham’s Martin Street Depot and Water Treatment Plant will follow.