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Solar and battery boost for Bega Valley community facilities

Bega Valley Shire Council has secured $136,000 in government funding to install solar and battery systems across several Council-owned community facilities.

Two men istalling solar panels on the roof of the Sapphire Aquatic Centre
Solar panels being installed on the Sapphire Aquatic Centre in Pambula Beach.

15 July 2025

Bega Valley Shire Council has secured $136,000 in government funding to install solar and battery systems across several Council-owned community facilities.

The grant is part of the Australian Government’s Community Solar Banks program, delivered in partnership with the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.

Bega Valley Shire Mayor, Russell Fitzpatrick said the solar and battery upgrades will reduce operational costs, lower carbon emissions, build resilience in times of emergency and contribute to a more sustainable future for the community.

“These projects are a win for local communities, a win for the environment and a win for our long-term energy security,” he said.

“By reducing running costs for community facilities and providing backup power during bushfires or blackouts, this investment supports the very groups that bring our towns and villages to life—sporting clubs, social groups, cultural organisations and more.”

Solar and battery installations are now underway at Council facilities across the shire, including Dickinson Recreation Reserve in Bermagui, Candelo Recreation Ground, Barclay Street Sporting Complex in Eden, Pambula Sporting Complex and Wolumla Recreation Ground.

Council extends its sincere thanks to the Australian and NSW Governments for this forward-thinking investment in community, sustainability and energy resilience.

“This program is a great example of governments working together to deliver real benefits for local people,” Mayor Fitzpatrick said.

Other successful recipients in the region include Katungul Aboriginal Corporation, Merrimans Local Aboriginal Land Council at Wallaga Lake, Bermagui Preschool, UOW Bega Campus, the Old Bega Hospital and several community groups in Narooma.

More information is available on the NSW Government website. 

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© Bega Valley Shire Council 2025

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