2.2.2 Use of technology to produce innovative solutions to reduce power and water usage. Kalamunda Community Centre Design and Construction Kalamunda Community Centre (KCC) Building has clever design and air flow systems to maximise use of fresh air and breezes rather than full-time air-conditioning.
Solar Farm In 2019 the City of Kalamunda conducted a survey to gather the community’s opinions on, attitudes towards and practises pertaining to sustainability. A specific focus of the survey was regarding the community’s attitudes towards developing a Solar Farm in the City. 70% responded positively to the question ‘Do you think (a solar farm) is a concept the City should explore further?’. At the November 2019 Ordinary Council Meeting, a report was provided regarding a pre-feasibility investigation into a solar farm with aims of reducing the City’s carbon footprint for its owned buildings and street lighting as well as potentially developing a future revenue source. The City engaged a consultant to review and expand upon the Pre-Feasibility Assessment (PFA) which analysed the opportunity for a solar-PV installation on a former landfill site, at Pioneer Park, Forrestfield, WA.
The PFA notes that proposed community outcomes of the solar farm project include: » To offset all City of Kalamunda electricity greenhouse gas emissions. » Lower energy costs for the City’s operations » Potential for community energy savings » Revenue generation to contribute to the City’s financial sustainability The feasibility study concluded the most viable location for a solar farm on land owned or controlled by the City (avoiding land procurement costs) was Pioneer Park in Forrestfield. Further consultation was undertaken in early 2021 to determine if the Pioneer Park site was supported by the community. With community support the City will now move to an expression of interest to market.
2.3 To reduce the amount of waste produced and increase the amount of reuse and recycling of waste. This year the Waste team have been looking at ways to reduce the amount of times they service the bins in the busy areas. Smart technology, known as Fin Bins, were trialed at Lesmurdie Falls Carpark. The innovative bin design sends notifications to the Waste services letting them know how full the bin is and when it should be serviced.
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City of Kalamunda Annual Report 2020-2021