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New electric vehicles added to Bass Coast Shire Council fleet to progress towards net zero emissions

Council invests in 4 Tesla Model 3 EVs to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2030, promoting EV adoption and renewable energy initiatives, leading by example in sustainability.

By news@gippsland - 18th July 2023 - Back to News

Council is driving towards no more fossil-fuels with four financially and environmentally smart new investments. In line with our Climate Change Action Plan, the council has added four new Tesla Model 3 Electric Vehicles (EVs) to our staff pool, in addition to two Hyundai Konas purchased 18 months ago.

In 2019, Bass Coast Shire Council declared a climate emergency, urging immediate action to reduce emissions and build resilience aiming for net zero emissions by 2030

EVs driving change

These new EVs confirm council's charge towards Net Zero by 2030, as we phase out hybrids from the fleet. Our commitment extends beyond passenger vehicles: we are actively exploring sustainable alternatives for our trucks, mowers, and street sweepers as they become available. Hand tools, chainsaws and more are already running on renewables too. Council is also installing fleet chargers at our offices and depots, with community charge points at Wonthaggi, Inverloch Grantville and Newhaven coming soon.

Transport is responsible for 19% of Australia's emissions, with passenger cars and light commercial vehicles alone contributing 60% of this. Without intervention, transport is projected to be Australia's largest carbon emissions source by 2030, according to the Federal Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.

It's imperative we take strong, immediate action to address this. More EVs on our roads means lower emissions. This means slowing climate change, reducing the extremity of weather - including flooding, which we know too well on Bass Coast.

Driving sustainable change

Council is already a consumer of 100% clean electricity, thanks to our collaboration with the Victorian Energy Collaboration (VECO), an alliance of 51 Victorian councils bulk purchasing renewable energy by funding our own wind farm. It's also important to recognise the long-term financial benefits. Zero-emissions-vehicles are free to run with low-maintenance costs, so they are highly cost-effective. Additionally, they retain their resale value, benefiting council's budget while also creating a local second-hand market.

Government plays a crucial role in leading the transition to zero-emissions. By setting the precedent, we aim to encourage broader adoption of EVs vehicles throughout the community. I encourage you to join us. If we all collectively reduce our fossil fuels reliance, we can make a significant impact in mitigating climate change to preserve our planet for future generations.

Council is proud to lead by example in actively pursuing net zero initiatives. Using our purchase power is one significant tool we have in building a sustainable, prosperous future for our Bass Coast community. With 'Powered by 100% renewable energy' emblazoned on their sides, watch out for council's new EVs near you. Learn more about council's commitment to net zero, visit our Community Action Portal.

Pictures from Bass Coast Shire Council website.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com