Moreland City Council’s
Carbon Management Strategy:
A road map to carbon neutrality for corporate
emissions by 2012
2011 UPDATE
Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
Contents
Mayors Forward ................................................................................................................................... 3
Our Commitment - From the CEO ....................................................................................................... 3
1.
Executive Summary ........................................................................................................................ 4
2.
Carbon Management Strategy Objectives ...................................................................................... 5
3.
Policy Context / Background ........................................................................................................... 5
4.
CMS 2010/2011 Implementation Achievements ............................................................................. 7
Accelerating corporate emissions reductions through Energy Efficiency Projects ............................. 7
Effective Utilities Data Management ................................................................................................... 9
5.
CMS Delivery ................................................................................................................................ 10
Moreland Energy Partnership ............................................................................................................ 10
6.
Scope ............................................................................................................................................ 11
Background ....................................................................................................................................... 11
Emissions Categories ........................................................................................................................ 12
7.
Current Carbon Footprint and Costs ............................................................................................. 13
8.
Projected Carbon Footprint and Costs .......................................................................................... 16
Future Energy forecast ...................................................................................................................... 16
9.
Strategic Actions ........................................................................................................................... 18
Measure – Data Management ........................................................................................................... 18
Reduce – Energy Efficiency Projects ................................................................................................ 18
Investment in Energy Efficiency .................................................................................................... 18
Offset - Carbon Offsets...................................................................................................................... 21
10. Conclusion..................................................................................................................................... 21
11. APPENDIX I - Summary of actions completed or progressed 2009/10 – 2010/11....................... 22
12. APPENDIX II – Emissions Scope ................................................................................................. 27
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
Mayors Forward
I am pleased to present the updated Carbon Management Strategy, a road map to achieve a vision of
zero net corporate emissions by 2012.
This updated CMS delivers significant benefits to the local community by improving our community
buildings such as our aquatic centres, libraries and child care centres, which also become
Environmentally Sustainable Development (ESD) demonstration sites.
Community groups who meet at the Coburg Town Hall now enjoy more efficient and effective heating
in winter while others enjoy cooler conditions throughout summer. The Aquatic centres are also more
comfortable with less condensation and humidity through optimised heating, cooling and ventilation
systems. The community can learn more about these initiatives and then access further assistance
from Council and the Moreland Energy Foundation.
The foundation for this great work is set via Council’s key policies including the Mayors Speech 2008,
2009-13 Council Plan, and Climate Action Plan 2007-10; all laying the foundation to keep building on
Moreland’s strong leadership on climate change action.
Now more than ever it is crucial for Council to continue to work closely with State and Federal
Governments as well as communities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and change the way we
work to integrate environmental sustainability into everything we do. Moreland continues to take
responsibility for our emissions and supporting a sustainable quality of life for current and future
generations.
Our Commitment - From the CEO
The CMS demonstrates Local Government excellence in energy efficiency management and climate
change action. It is a blue print for corporate carbon neutrality; a unique document that not only
identifies current emissions and specific greenhouse gas reduction actions; it also quantifies the
reductions for each project to determine Councils’ progression towards its goal of zero net emissions.
The CMS has provided a clear focus for climate action at Council and has since demonstrated the
effectiveness of energy efficiency. The CMS has achieved excellence as it has raised the profile of
environmental sustainability across Council and secured significant investment into sustainability
initiatives. The CMS has also built strong relationships across Council through shared successes and
partnerships with key stakeholders including Moreland Energy Foundation.
The CMS is delivering deeper cuts in emission and will reduce Council’s future carbon liability. The
exciting thing for Council is that we are now able to demonstrate that by working smarter, we can not
only reduce emissions, but we can save money and respond actively to climate change. We are
playing our part in reducing our impact on climate change and implementation of the CMS is a key
part of this.
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
1.
Executive Summary
The Moreland City Council Carbon Management Strategy (CMS) provides a pathway for Moreland City
Council to meet its commitment of carbon neutrality for Council’s corporate operations by 2012. The
CMS also provides clear leadership to both the Local Government sector and the Moreland community.
The Strategy analyses Council’s corporate carbon footprint, presents energy costs and forecasts and
determines the most cost effective approach to achieve our zero net corporate emissions target by
2012.
This document updates Council’s Carbon Management Strategy (CMS) adopted in April 2010. This
update covers:

achievements since adoption of the CMS in April 2010;

Council renewed commitment to meet its goal of carbon neutrality for Council’s corporate
operations by 2012;

current greenhouse reporting conventions;

update Council’s emissions and energy cost profile;

commentary on variations since the original footprint; and

updated plan to reduce direct corporate emissions, including 2011/12 and 2012/13 capital
works for energy efficiency projects.
Moreland City Council’s corporate activities including facilities, fleet, and public lighting, has a carbon
footprint of over 20,000 tonnes CO2e each year. Council emissions have remained constant since
2007/08 due to significantly increasing services to the community through greater utilisation of Council
facilities by community groups.
Actions undertaken under the CMS have ensured that emissions did not increase while saving on
operating costs. For example, in 2010/2011, Council invested $676,869 in energy efficiency and ESD
works at 12 buildings, with an estimated annual reduction of emissions by 803 tonnes of CO2e and
annual cost savings of $86,199. The wide range of energy saving initiatives completed in 2010/11 has
equated to savings across Council of 15% of total electricity use in buildings and 9% of natural gas use
in buildings.
Council currently spends over $3.1 million on energy, fuel consumption and corporate waste disposal.
Overall building operations (electricity, gas and waste disposal), transport (diesel, petrol, LPG fuel use)
and street lighting each comprise approximately one third of the costs.
The key principles to investing in energy efficiency in projects for carbon reduction are as follows:

Investment of $492,000 in 2012/2013 into energy efficiency upgrades including integration
into all planned capital works via the BOP;

$100,000 per year (over 4 financial years) capital expenditure for repayment of Moreland
Energy Partnership funding of Fawkner Leisure Centre cogeneration system;

Continue to progress bulk change of Street Lighting ($1.6 million currently in 10 year capital
works plan);

$100,000 per year in upgrades including energy efficiency to Open Space lighting (currently in
10 year capital works plan); and

Identify additional projects above the minimum that align with major capital works or are
achievable through external finance opportunities.
Numerous projects are planned for completion in 2012/13 in line with the key principles for
implementation. These projects are selected based on integration with capital works projects and on
their ability to reduce both energy costs and greenhouse emissions. These projects will deliver savings
of $295,400 per year in energy costs and reduce CO2-e by 4,076.8 tonnes. Carbon offsets will be
lowered by $93,766 in 2012/13 (or $38,796 if street lighting is not offset).
Through this 2011 update, Council reconfirms its policy commitment to be Carbon Neutral from
2012/13. To achieve this, the balance of carbon emissions must be offset. The approach to carbon
offsets requires further consideration and will be progressed for reporting to Council in 2012 by July
2012.
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
2.
Carbon Management Strategy Objectives
The key objectives of the CMS include to:

make Moreland City Council’s corporate operations carbon neutral by 2012;

continue to reduce direct corporate emissions through energy efficiency works;

provide leadership to the Local Government sector and the Moreland community of the urgent
need to tackle climate change;

deliver a clear business case for action;

ensure that projects are planned, delivered and reviewed regularly to deliver clear outcomes;
and

leverage opportunities provided by the Moreland Energy Partnership or other external
partnership or funding opportunities.
3.
Policy Context / Background
Moreland Energy Partnership May 2011
In May 2011 Council entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Moreland Energy
Foundation, which describes how Council and MEFL will work together and seek to identify future
energy efficiency projects that may be of mutual benefit and achieve carbon reduction. Building upon
the MOU, Council also entered into a Joint Venture with MEFL to pilot a project under the Moreland
Energy Partnership – cogeneration at Fawkner Leisure Centre.
The Joint Venture pilot project aims to deliver a low carbon energy supply via the installation of a
cogeneration plant (combined heat and power) at the Fawkner Leisure Centre. It is anticipated that
the project will reduce emissions by more than 45 per cent and annual operating cost savings of
around $60,000. This will entail monitoring the cogeneration system to maximise energy efficiency
during the payback period, as well as manage the generation of carbon offsets. Energy cost savings
will be utilised to fund the loan repayments and additional energy efficiency projects.
Moreland City Council Carbon Management Strategy (CMS) April 2010
In April 2010 Council adopted The Moreland City Council Carbon Management Strategy (CMS),
which provided a pathway for Council to meet its commitment of carbon neutrality for its corporate
operations by 2012.
The Strategy analysed Council’s corporate carbon footprint, presented energy costs and forecasts
and determined the most cost effective approach to achieve our zero net corporate emissions target
by 2012. The Strategy set out a viable path to reduce direct corporate emissions by 24% by 2012.
Moreland City Council committed to achieving ‘carbon neutrality’ for its corporate emissions by 2012
as expressed in the Incoming Mayor’s Speech 2008. For the purpose of this report it is assumed that
‘zero net emissions’ shares a common meaning with the term ‘carbon neutral’. The following
definition was proposed by the British government in its recent consultation paper.
“Carbon neutral means that – through a transparent process of measuring emissions, reducing
those emissions and offsetting residual emissions – net calculated carbon emissions equal zero.”1
1
Consultation on the term ‘carbon neutral’: its definition and recommendations for good practice,
Department of Energy and Climate Change (UK) 26 February 2009
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
Council Action Plan 2010 – 2011
Council’s 2010/2011 Council Action Plan item number 1 (prepare a progress report to Council) and
item 2 (reduce direct corporate greenhouse gas emissions by 800 tonnes buildings) was achieved
through the preparation of a report to Council in June 2011 and through estimated reductions as
detailed in Section 4 of this document.
Strategic Operating Plan 2009 – 2010
The Council’s Strategic Operating Plan maps out key strategic objectives to deliver corporate
outcomes. This includes implementation of the Climate Action Plan, undertaking a bulk change of
public lighting and undertaking energy efficiency retrofits of council buildings.
Building Operations Plan (BOP)
The BOP is a dynamic building management plan which identifies Council’s building works for the
next twenty year period. Each Council facility has been assessed to establish a ‘Sustainability Rating’
score. The score then informs prioritisation of Council building works. The ‘Sustainability Rating’ tool
was developed through the Sustainable Small Facilities Program which Council has adopted to
assess its small and medium facilities.
Moreland Solar City
The Moreland Solar City initiative is part of the Australian Government’s Solar Cities Program led by
the Moreland Energy Foundation in partnership with the Moreland City Council, Sustainability Victoria
and the Brotherhood of St Lawrence.
The Moreland Solar City project has supported Council to establish the Carbon Management Strategy
and MEFL to progress the development of an Energy Services Company (ESCo) model to facilitate
additional capital investment and establish arrangements to continue to identify and invest in future
projects that achieve carbon reduction with a sound business case. The Fawkner Leisure Centre cogeneration pilot project will establish the partnership arrangements for Council and MEFL to deliver
this model.
Incoming Mayors Speech, 2008
The Incoming Mayor’s Speech 2008, as the foundation for the 2009 – 2013 Council Plan, recognised
increasing community concerns about climate change and the need to build on Moreland’s strong
leadership in carbon reduction. The speech recommitted to reduce Council greenhouse gas
emissions from its own operations by 40 percent by 2010 and to revise the current Climate Action
Plan 2007 – to ensure that Council is carbon neutral by 2012.
Climate Action Plan, 2007-12
The Climate Action Plan (CAP) provided an assessment of Moreland’s corporate and community
emissions, determined a target of zero net emissions by 2020 and provided an action plan to achieve
emission reductions including a 40% reduction by 2010.
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
4.
CMS 2010/2011 Implementation Achievements
Accelerating corporate emissions reductions through Energy Efficiency
Projects
In 2010/2011, Council invested $676,869 in energy efficiency and ESD works at 12 buildings, with an
estimated annual reduction of emissions by 803 tonnes of CO2e and annual cost savings of $86,199.
The wide range of energy saving initiatives completed in 2010/11 has equated to savings across
Council of 15% of total electricity use in buildings and 9% of natural gas use in buildings.
The size of each project varied with a mix of major and minor projects. A number of minor projects
such as lighting upgrades and pool blankets have occurred. Major projects are also being
implemented and developed such as HVAC optimisation at the Coburg Civic centre, a co-generation
system integrated into the redevelopment of the Brunswick Baths and tender specifications being
finalised for co-generation at the Fawkner Leisure centre.
Fawkner Library lighting upgrade resulted in
65% reduction in energy consumption and 40%
improvement in light output
Coburg Civic Centre ceiling insulation resulted
in 35% reduction in heat loss
Fawkner Library
“We replaced the existing sub standard lighting at
the Fawkner Library with energy efficient lighting
that would save energy used for lighting and
provide greater light output. Funding for the
project came from Council’s Carbon Management
Strategy budget and DPCD Living Libraries
Program 2010.
Voltage optimisation - installed at Coburg Civic
Centre, Brunswick Town Hall, Moreland
Operations Centre (8-12% reduction in electricity
consumption
The Climate Change Technical Officer undertook
an energy efficiency lighting redesign which
projected a 65% saving of the energy used.
Completed in April 2011, lighting levels in the
library were vastly improved. The fittings are
modern and look extremely good and have
received very positive comments from library
users and staff. An extremely good outcome!”
Paul Turner – Acting Manager Cultural
Development.
Moreland City Council, December 2011
Coburg Civic Centre Double Glazing (resulted in
30% reduction in energy consumption)
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
Fawkner Leisure Centre
“An extensive range of improvements in plant,
equipment and fittings has occurred at the
Fawkner Leisure Centre which has undoubtedly
improved not just the energy efficiency but the
infrastructure and customer enjoyment of the
facilities and services.
Most importantly from a service providers
perspective the project implementation has had
minimal impact on service delivery and has been
well coordinated and communicated to all
stakeholders. This has resulted in staff and
customers embracing the improvements and
benefits that these works have brought to the
centre”
Thermal Pool Covers installed at Fawkner
Leisure Centre - 100 tonne greenhouse gas
reduction and 180,000 litre water saving annually
Kim Critchley – Manager Fawkner Leisure
Centre
Solartube Skylights installed at Fawkner Leisure
Centre - natural light not artificial!
Another major project currently out to tender after many years of research and development is the
street lighting bulk change. This project will cost approximately $1.6 million and reduce Council’s
emissions by 2000 tonnes. This project is ground breaking in its approach to improving public lighting
service provision and energy management.
Through the CMS, Council’s Climate Change Technical Officer has developed a cost benefit analysis
tool. Every project undergoes thorough analysis prior to implementation to ensure that both
environmental and financial savings are realised. This tool ensures a robust justification for each
project and ensures confidence from management across Council. Cost benefits for energy efficiency
projects are delivered in conjunction with a wide range of other environmental e.g. greenhouse gas
reductions and social benefits.
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
As shown in Table 1 below, energy efficiency projects delivered by Council’s ESD Unit in 2010/11 will
supply significant cost and emissions savings to Council. See Appendix 1 for a detailed report on
actions progressed or completed as set out in the 2010 adopted CMS.
Annual
Annual
Annual
Total Annual
Annual
Electricity
Gas
Cost
Cost of
Energy
GHG
Savings
Savings
Savings
Measure
Savings
Reduction
Project
(kWh)
(GJ)
($)
($)
(GJ)
(t CO2-e)
COBURG CIVIC CENTRE
128546
223
$25,325
$179,790
686
188.4
Projects included: voltage optimistation; double glazing; insulation; draught sealing; lighting retrofits; controls improvements;
and HVAC optimisation.
WALTER ST DEPOT
66752
0
$8,605
$29,380
240
90.1
Projects included: voltage optimistation; lighting retrofits; and controls improvements.
FAWKNER LEISURE CENTRE
155662
2034
$26,663
$247,194
2593
325.8
Projects included: Pool Hall air handling improvements; pool covers; insulation; draught sealing; pool hall skylights; solar hot
water; lighting retrofits; and controls optimisation.
BRUNSWICK TOWN HALL
48906
0
$7,907
$84,000
100
61.0
Projects included: voltage optimistation; and lighting retrofits.
CAMPBELL TURNBULL LIBRARY
8846
0
$1,504
$3,500
32
11.5
Project included: LED lighting retrofit.
FAWKNER LIBRARY
36538
0
$6,212
$22,000
132
47.5
Project included: fluorescent lighting retrofit and insulation.
COUNIHAN GALLERY
1155
0
$196
$4,500
4
1.5
Project included: LED lighting retrofit.
REDDISH RESERVE PAVILION
11538
0
$1,962
$12,550
42
15.0
Project included: hot water system efficiency upgrade.
JP FAWKNER RESERVE PAVILION
26923
0
$4,577
$23,760
97
35.0
Project included: hot water system efficiency upgrade.
AG GILLON OVAL PAVILION
0
47
$0
$32,310
47
2.4
Project included: hot water system efficiency upgrade.
MUTTON RESERVE PAVILION
17692
0
$3,008
$34,500
64
23
Project included: hot water system efficiency upgrade.
HARRY ATKINS CENTRE
1423
0
$242
$3,385
5
1.9
Project included: lighting upgrade.
TOTAL
503983
2304
$86,199
$676,869
4040
803.1
Table 1 – Summary of 2010/11 CMS energy efficiency projects
Effective Utilities Data Management
The Utilities Data Management component of the CMS is a process improvement within Council
where bills for water, gas and electricity are tracked and monitored to ensure that overpayments do
not occur and to identify areas of excessive usage. Previously data management had been difficult to
track, Council have invested in a part-time Utility Data Management Officer and greenhouse gas
reporting tool to manage data and communicate energy use and savings across Council. In 2010/11
this role delivered the following:

modified Council's accounts payable system so that environmental data is collected at the
same time as bills are paid;

established software for analysis and reporting of energy and water consumption at Council
assets;

detected numerous billing errors, saving Council $120,000 to date; and

provided data analysis to support action planning, reporting and verification of results.
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
Above is an example of reporting capabilities
through new carbon monitoring and reporting tool.
5.
Above is an example of real time reporting for
Council facilities at Coburg Civic Centre to
allow for accurate energy monitoring and
management.
CMS Delivery
Through the CMS, Council’s ESD team worked closely with a number of areas across Council,
including the Depot Operations centre; Property Services; Engineering and Transport; Leisure
Services and Finance teams. The Climate Change Technical Officer was able to provide on the job
training and technical information to the staff to assist in the implementation of energy efficiency
works and build their capacity around ESD in the built environment.
The CMS has cemented many internal relationships. For example the Climate Change Technical
Officer is currently working with the depot Fleet manager on a “Permo Drive” efficiency pilot project on
Council’s waste vehicles which could result in long term savings across Council’s fleet of waste
vehicles. The Officer has also consulted on building capital works across Council and works closely
with Building Maintenance on improving business as usual processes.
Moreland Energy Partnership
To assist delivery of the CMS Council is currently working with MEFL on a Joint Venture partnership,
which aims to deliver a low carbon energy supply via the installation of a cogeneration plant
(combined heat and power) at the pilot site at Fawkner Leisure Centre and provision of strategic
advice. A Project Assessment Group (PAG) has been established with joint representation from
Council and MEFL in order to oversee the pilot project at Fawkner Leisure Centre and support future
projects. It is expected that the cogeneration plant would be installed by mid 2012 and fully
operational/testing completed by end 2012. Refer Figure 1 below for the project management
structure of the MEP.
MEFL role in the Moreland Energy Partnership - Strategic Advice / Project Support:

Provide advice to PAG on project investment and return.

Evaluate project opportunities utilising the Fund Model tool developed by Net Balance.

Provide advice on energy price forecasting and market barriers.

Provide strategic advice on carbon offsets.

Facilitate funding / Investment Brokering.
Council role in the Moreland Energy Partnership - Project implementation / Data Management:
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011

Develop annual energy efficiency works program (CMS Update).

Provide technical advice and undertake project feasibility.

Project management and implementation of cogeneration at Fawkner Leisure centre.

Undertake energy efficiency project management and project implementation.

Provide overall tracking of projects including energy savings calculated from billing data and
sub metering where available.

Provide annual carbon footprint (CMS Update).

Administer “internal fund”.

Funding / Investment brokering and administration.
Figure 1 – Moreland Energy Partnership – Project Management Structure
6.
Scope
Background
Defining scope is a critical step in identifying Council’s emissions sources to be included in its carbon
footprint, understanding the responsibilities and roles Council has in reducing emissions and
establishing monitoring and measurement processes is key to meeting reporting requirements.
Historically Local Governments across Australia, including Moreland, have used the voluntary
framework developed by ICLEI Cities for Climate Protection (CCP). Recently the Federal Government
has adopted an internationally recognised reporting protocol; the National Greenhouse and Energy
Reporting (NGER) Act 2007 which establishes a national standard and framework for managing
greenhouse emissions allocation and reporting.
In July 2010, the Federal Government introduced the National Carbon Offset Standard (NCOS) to
provide national consistency and consumer confidence in the voluntary carbon market. The standard
serves two primary functions – it provides guidance on what is a genuine voluntary offset and sets
minimum requirements for calculating, auditing and offsetting the carbon footprint of an organisation
or product to achieve ‘carbon neutrality’. As Moreland Council has committed to becoming Carbon
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
Neutral by 2012, Council’s carbon emissions scope is therefore aligned with the Federal NGER
protocols and NCOS guidelines. Figure 2 below depicts emissions boundaries – carbon neutrality
focuses on corporate emissions only.
NGERS provides a standard for organisations to report their greenhouse emissions although
reporting organisations are only required to report on scope 1 and 2 emissions. Note that Council is
voluntarily looking to report on its emissions and will be using NGERS as a guide. NCOS uses the
reporting protocols developed under NGERS but additionally stipulates that in order for organisations
or products to be certified as carbon neutral they must report on additional scope 3 emissions
activities. For example, at a minimum, organisations are required to include within their scope the
following scope 3 emissions:
•
business travel of its employees;
•
disposal of waste generated by the organisation; and
•
use of paper in the course of its business.
Note that although Council is voluntarily looking at becoming carbon neutral, for Council to claim this
status it must adhere to the NCOS requirements.
Figure 2 – Carbon Emissions Boundaries
Emissions Categories
In accordance with guidance provided by the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (NGER) Act
2007 greenhouse emissions related to Moreland City Council have been categorised into three
categories: Corporate, Municipal and Community. The categories are explained in further detail below
to describe the activities from which the emissions are derived (refer APPENDIX II – Emissions Scope
for more details).
Corporate Emissions (Control)
Defined as emissions resulting from Council facilities, sites and operations.
Buildings
Greenhouse emissions resulting from building use of electricity and gas
which both result in greenhouse emissions either onsite or related to the
production of electricity and gas. Building emissions are considered to be
from all properties owned or leased by Council (includes Leisure Centres).
Fleet
Greenhouse emissions result from the use of transport fuels such as petrol,
diesel and LPG. Transport emissions are considered to cover all Council
owned fleet.
Waste
Greenhouse emissions result from the disposal of waste to landfill. Corporate
waste emissions are considered to be from all Council owned facilities and
exclude waste collected in the community.
Other
Scope 32 emissions – recognised but not included in present emissions
scope or footprint calculation. These emissions are more complicated to
calculate, it is intended to incorporate air travel and paper use at a minimum
in future corporate footprints.
Municipal Emissions (Influence)
2
National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act, Dept. of Climate Change, Page 16.
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
Defined as emissions related to municipal services provided directly by Council, however under
NCOS guidelines are classified as scope 3 emissions.
Municipal Waste
Council provides waste to landfill and green waste collection services for
residents. The organic waste component generates significant emissions due
to methane release once in landfill.
Street Lighting
Council is responsible for funding public lighting across the municipality;
however Council does not have primary operational control over the asset 3.
Community Emissions (Concern)
Defined as emissions related to the activities of the broader community which Council has no direct
accountability.
Residential
Greenhouse emissions arising from residential building use of electricity and
gas.
Commercial
Greenhouse emissions arising from commercial use of electricity and gas
primarily for buildings.
Industrial
Greenhouse emissions arising from industrial use of electricity and gas for
industrial plant and direct release of emissions arising from processes such
as cement.
Transport
Greenhouse emissions result from the use of transport fuels such as petrol,
diesel and LPG across the community.
Council and MEFL are working as part of the Northern Alliance for Greenhouse Action to better define
and track community emissions. Projects such as Zero Carbon Moreland, are supporting the
Moreland community reduce emissions and MEFL and Council will update the Community Climate
Action Plan in 2012/13 (subject to budget approvals process for 2012/13).
Note: Council performs annual waste audits at the Coburg Civic Centre and The Operations Centre
(Walter St Depot), waste generation associated with other Council facilities has been estimated for
the purpose of this update. To achieve carbon neutrality further work is required to establish waste
emissions.
7.
Current Carbon Footprint and Costs
Council’s carbon footprint has remained constant from 2007/08 to 2010/11 (refer Figure 3) with a less
than 1% decrease. A small reduction in building energy emissions was negated by small increases in
fleet and public lighting.
3
National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Guidelines, Dept. of Climate Change, Page 16.
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
Figure 3 – Greenhouse Emissions Comparison between 2007/08 and 2010/11
Buildings and public lighting remain the greatest source of emissions generated by Council (refer
Figure 3 above). This is due to the level of electricity consumption and the high greenhouse intensity
of conventional electricity production from brown coal in Victoria.
As noted in Section 4, actions included in the CMS have produced considerable energy, cost and
greenhouse savings of 800 t CO2-e per year. However these savings have occurred while Council
has provided a much improved community service during this period through:

Additional and expanded buildings including Allard Pavilion and Newlands Senior Citizens;

Significantly more frequent use of existing buildings by community groups due to the public
online booking system coming online in 2009/10; and

Additional staff including 55 new staff at Coburg Civic Centre.
These improvements to service have a significant bearing on energy use within the organisation
through increased use of facilities.
An increase in fleet emissions was due to an increase in the number of fleet vehicles and a shift
from LPG to diesel with a 34% decrease in LPG use, 11% increase in Diesel and 8% increase in
petrol use.
Council’s associated energy costs followed a similar trend with little change from 2007/08 to 2010/11;
however the shift towards more diesel use had a more pronounced impact due to the increase in the
price of diesel. This resulted in an overall cost increase of 2.5% and made fleet fuel costs the largest
component of the costs overall. Adding to these were increases to the regulated charges including
Operating, Maintenance and Repair charges for street lighting as set by the Essential Services
Commission.
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
Figure 4 – Cost Comparison between 2007/08 and 2010/11
Contrasting this, building energy costs reduced as Council entered into new electricity and gas
contracts between 2008 and 2010 which included reduced costs of 7% for electricity and 10% for
natural gas.
It should be noted that the accuracy of data since 2007/08 has improved. Council’s first greenhouse
inventory or carbon footprint analysis was undertaken in 2000 as part of the Cities for Climate
Protection (CCP) program with the CCP system used until 2009. Development of the CMS in 2010
highlighted the need to invest in more accurate data collection processes. This was a key
recommendation of the CMS and one that has been pursued to deliver a much improved data
process for this update to the strategy (refer Section 4).
A reduction of Council’s emissions through offsets has been performed through purchasing of Green
Power for 30% of its electricity use. This is performed through buying Green Power for 30% of street
lighting usage and 100% of Coburg Civic Centre and Brunswick Town Hall electricity consumption.
Purchasing Green Power currently reduces Council’s final carbon emissions by 20% as shown in
Figure 5 below.
Figure 5 – Emissions reduction through Green Power purchases
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
8.
Projected Carbon Footprint and Costs
Without the energy efficiency works undertaken as part of the CMS and capital works upgrades,
Council’s emissions would have increased by an estimated additional 2.5% or 500 tonnes CO2-e in
2010/11.
Without continued action, Council’s emissions are predicted to rise by 800 tonnes per year due to
expanded services including new buildings such as the Gowanbrae Community Centre (refer Figure 6
below).
Figure 6 – Greenhouse Emissions Projection to 2012/13
Future Energy forecast
Australian energy prices are forecast to experience substantial rises in real terms over the coming
decades. Key drivers for electricity are significant costs associated with distribution and transmission
network upgrades and the impact of carbon prices. In addition fuel costs are forecast to rise steeply
over the next decade due to global supply and demand factors. The impacts of fuel costs are being
investigated through the development of a Peak Oil Strategy for Council.
Modelling undertaken by SKM-MMA for the Federal Treasury to inform carbon pricing policy
demonstrated expected electricity price rises to 2050. As outlined in the Clean Energy Future
legislation, a fixed price stage that runs until mid 2015 will have a carbon price starting at $23 per
tonne and rising by 2.5 per cent a year in real terms. From 1 July 2015 onwards, the price will be set
by the market and the number of permits issued by the Government each year will be capped.
The SKM-MMA modelling predicts that electricity prices will be:

40% to 100% higher in 2020;

150% higher in 2030 based on a $23 per tonne carbon price (BAU 2.5).
As shown in Figure 7 below, a core carbon price scenario of $23 per tonne will increase Council
electricity costs to over $4 million by 2030 without measures to reduce electricity use. However,
Council will have a significant impact through early action in the reduction of energy use through
currently committed projects in Street lighting bulk changes and energy efficiency projects.
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
Figure 7 – Energy cost forecast
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
9.
Strategic Actions
To manage its commitment to reducing emissions and becoming carbon neutral, Council will continue
to take a strategic approach to investment. Investment in energy efficiency is critical to directly
reducing greenhouse emissions; reduce Council’s exposure to energy price rises and the costs
associated with achieving carbon neutrality. Council will also purchase carbon offsets commencing
2012-13 to become carbon neutral. And of course Council will also continue to progress data
management to identify savings and to help direct energy efficiency projects.
Measure – Data Management
Employing Council’s Utility Data Management Officer and improving data management process have
saved Council over $100,000 in energy bill errors in the first 12 months. These savings would have
been missed were it not for the proactive approach recommended in the CMS.
Further, measuring utility data is a crucial step towards carbon neutrality as Council has a much better
understanding of:

opportunities for emissions reduction;

the impact of energy efficiency measures and facility use on emissions; and

the investment required for energy efficiency and carbon offsets for forward planning.
The data management system is being reviewed and will be updated over the next two years to
provide more rigorous quality assurance, improved reporting and best use of the resources available
to Council.
Reduce – Energy Efficiency Projects
Investment in Energy Efficiency
The key principles to investing in energy efficiency in projects for carbon reduction are as follows:

The key principles to investing in energy efficiency in projects for carbon reduction are as
follows:

Investment of $492,000 in 2012/2013 into energy efficiency upgrades including integration
into all planned capital works via the BOP;
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011

$100,000 per year (for 4 years) capital expenditure for repayment of Moreland Energy
partnership funding of Fawkner Precinct cogeneration system;

Continue to progress bulk change of Street Lighting ($1.6 million currently in 10 year capital
works plan);

$100,000 per year in upgrades including energy efficiency to Open Space lighting (currently in
10 year capital works plan); and

Identify additional projects above the minimum that align with major capital works or are
achievable through external finance opportunities; and

Energy efficiency opportunities will decrease over time, Council to continue to explore microgeneration opportunities.
Modelling of future emissions is shown in Figure 8 below:

The first bar shows Council’s current emissions footprint;

The BAU scenario includes no significant energy efficiency projects (i.e. cogeneration and
street lighting) and assumes a 2% increase in emissions across some of the emissions
sources with others remaining static to 2012/13;

The CMS scenario also assumes the same increases across some of the emissions sectors
to 2012/13 but importantly it illustrates the impact of CMS project implementation over the
next two years.
Figure 8 – Greenhouse Emissions Projection to 2012/13
Adopting an approach to reduce emissions through energy efficiency projects will minimise the need
to purchase carbon offsets and associated long term costs.
Numerous projects are planned for completion in 2011/12 and 2012/13 in line with the key principles
for implementation. These projects are selected based on integration with capital works projects and
on their ability to reduce both energy costs and greenhouse emissions (refer Table 2 on the following
page). These projects will cost $2,880,720 to deliver, save $322,370 per year in energy costs and
reduce CO2-e by 4,594.8 tonnes to 18,357 tonnes per year. Carbon offsets will be lowered by
$105,680 in 2012/13 (or $50,710 if Street lighting is not offset).
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
2011/ 2012
Location description
Projects
Main Office (Moreland Civic Centre
complex)
Coburg Leisure Centre
Upgrade HVAC and BMS controls, server
efficiencies & lighting retrofits
Pool cover installation
Fawkner leisure
Capital Cost
Savings
per year
Emissions
Reduction
t Co2-e/year
Responsibility
$357,000
$6,300
330
ESD
$52,000
$5,800
65
ESD
$35,000
$5,500
42
Building Maintenance
Childcare and Kindergartens (8)
Upgrade outdoor pool boiler and controls
(30% contribution)
Solar in Schools (Contribution)
$16,000
$3,700
31
ESD
Bob Hawke
Blu Gen cogeneration
$25,000
Brunswick Town Hall
LED exit sign retrofit
Brunswick Park
Bridges Reserve
$2,000
15
$3,200
$400
2
ESD
ESD
Public Lighting Upgrade
$10,000
$670
7
ESD
Public Lighting Upgrade
$90,000
$2,600
26
ESD
$588,200
$26,970
518
Capital Cost
Savings
per year
TOTAL
2012/ 2013
Location description
Projects
ESD upgrades through the
BOP
Integration into BOP Projects
$147,520
various
Emissions
Reduction
t Co2-e/year
various
Brunswick Town Hall
BMS
$120,000
$15,800
940
ESD
Brunswick Library
Lighting Upgrade
$30,000
$6,200
47
ESD
Fawkner Community Centre
HVAC Upgrade (30% contribution)
$35,000
$4,500
127
ESD
Walter St Depot
CNG Fuelling Infrastructure
$160,000
$46,200
46
ESD
Fawkner Leisure Centre
Cogeneration - payment 1 to MEP
$100,000
$72,000
520
ESD
Fawkner Leisure Centre
Cogeneration – possible capital contribution
TBC
As above
As above
ESD
Robinson Reserve
Public Lighting Upgrade
$100,000
$700
6.8
ESD
Northern distribution area
Street Lighting Bulk Change
$1,600,000
$150,000
2390
$2,292,520
$295,400
4076.8
TOTAL
Table 2 – Energy Efficiency projects for 2011/12 and 2012/13
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Responsibility
ESD, Capital Works
Planning and Delivery
Strategic Transport
Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
Offset - Carbon Offsets
This 2011 update to the CMS confirms Council’s policy commitment to be Carbon Neutral from 201213. To achieve this, the balance of carbon emissions must be offset. Council currently offsets 20% of
its residual carbon emissions through purchase of Green Power for 30% of electricity consumption.
Becoming Carbon Neutral requires careful consideration of:

emissions scope;

measurement and verification;

quality of offsets; and

understanding cost implications for certification and offset purchase.
The Federal Government has recently established the National Carbon Offset Standard (NCOS)
which establishes a convention for verifying and ultimately certifying an organisation being Carbon
Neutral.
To navigate these factors and establish a process by 2012-13, Council and MEFL, as part of the MEP
will work to confirm the following by June 2012:
Scope
Informed by NCOS
Cost / Quality
Informed by NCOS, financial modelling and policy considerations
Certification
Whether Council seeks to become certified under NCOS
Timeframe
Timeframe for implementation and key milestones
This will be subject to a further report to Council in 2012.
10. Conclusion
This update of the Carbon Management outlines the path to carbon neutrality by 2012 for Council.
Continued investment in measurement, energy efficiency and offsetting of residual emissions will
provide leadership to Local Governments and to the Moreland Community of Council’s commitment to
tackle climate change.
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
11. APPENDIX I - Summary of actions completed or progressed 2009/10 – 2010/11
Key Building Actions
Measure
Comment – actions completed or being progressed
Lead Responsibility - Sustainable Development
Support – Finance Unit
Establish Data/Utility Officer role within Council and assign
resources to deliver data management and system aligned to
NGER requirements (Feb – Jun 2009/10)
A Data/Utility Officer role was established by ESD Unit within Council (December 2010).
The officer has in less than a year modified Council's accounts payable system so that
environmental data is collected at the same time as bills are paid. Achievements include:
 Established software for analysis and reporting of energy and water consumption at
Council assets
 Detected numerous billing errors, saving Council $85,320 to date (with numerous
others under investigation)
Lead Responsibility - Sustainable Development
Undertake annual carbon inventory and monthly reporting (July
on annual basis)
Carbon inventory for buildings available, transport and waste not currently included.
Monthly reporting being developed, plans for software are underway to support monthly
reporting.
Lead Responsibility - Sustainable Development
Fawkner Leisure Centre cogeneration tender released October 2011.
Installation of cogeneration unit at Fawkner Leisure Centre (July
2010/11)
A 65kW cogeneration plant (with scope for additional 65kW) is included in Brunswick City
Baths regeneration project due for completion in October 2012.
Lead Responsibility – Property Services
Installation of cogeneration units - Brunswick City Baths (July
2011/2012)
Lead Responsibility - Sustainable Development
Fawkner Leisure Centre – Energy retrofit (Apr – Jun 2009/10)
Lead Responsibility - Property Services
Fawkner Leisure Centre – Energy retrofit was undertaken in 2010/11 with a 19%
reduction in electricity and 34% reduction in gas consumption use (annual predicted
based on seasonal data). These measureable results were a achieve through a range of
efficiency measures, which included: Pool Hall air handling improvements; pool covers;
insulation; draught sealing; pool hall skylights; solar hot water; lighting retrofits; and
controls optimisation.
ESD guidelines adopted 2008 and utilised.
Support - Sustainable Development
All new building projects to comply with the ESD Guidelines for
Sustainable Buildings:
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011

Gowanbrae Community Centre

Brunswick City Baths (ongoing 2009/10 – 2011/12)
Lead Responsibility - Economic Development
Support - Sustainable Development
The Coburg Initiative to comply with the ESD Guidelines for
Sustainable Buildings (ongoing 2009/10 – 2011/12)
The Coburg Initiative Land Use Built Form Strategy was adopted by Council in December
2010, which sets the parameters for an excellent built environment through quality,
sustainable Design, development and stewardship and developing a reputation as a
smart city. An amendment to the Moreland Planning Scheme will be progressed to
introduce the Coburg Place Framework Strategies into the Planning Scheme in 2011/12.
The Land Use and Built Form Strategy include 6 star Green Star requirements for all new
buildings in the TCI area. This is above the ESD Guidelines for Sustainable Buildings
requirements.
Lead Responsibility - Sustainable Development Review the
ESD Guidelines for Sustainable Buildings (June 2010/11 and
2011/12 – ongoing)
ESD Guidelines for Sustainable Buildings is proposed for review in 2012.
Bulk change 50 electric hot water units (ongoing 2009/10 –
2011/12)
Bulk change progressing as part of Buildings Operation Plan and Capital work 5 year
forward program, (5 replacements in 2009/10, 6 replacements in 2010/11). 6 planned for
2012 @ Hosken Reserve.
Lead Responsibility - Property Services
Bulk change progressing as part of Buildings Operation Plan and Capital work 5 year
forward program, 6 community buildings insulated in 2009/10 and replacement of
insulation at Moreland Civic Centre and Fawkner Library in 2010/11.
Support - Sustainable Development
Bulk installation of insulation at 25 small facilities (ongoing
2009/10 – 2011/12)
Key Public Lighting Actions
Measure
Comment – actions completed or being progressed
Lead Responsibility - Engineering and Transport
Inventories are completed including light location (metered lighting locations done
through Walk the Talk Study and unmetered (Jemena / Citipower) completed by
consultants. Data reconciliation ongoing.
Support – Sustainable Development
Undertake a full inventory of Council controlled and distributor
controlled public lighting. Determine light location and reconcile
with utility data and Council asset data (June 2009/10)
Lead Responsibility - Engineering and Transport
Policy adopted in August 2010.
Implement public lighting policy (ongoing 2009/10 – 2011/12)
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
Lead Responsibility - Engineering and Transport
Designs for MMM parks undertaken with first project retrofit proposed for early 2012.
Support – Sustainable Development
Establish five year capital works program to systematically retrofit
all Council controlled public lighting (July – annually - 2009/10 –
2011/12)
Lead Responsibility – Sustainable Transport and Property
Services
A public tender including option for EPC closes November 2011. Outcomes of tender to
determine approach for bulk change in 2012.
Support – Sustainable Development
Work with Jemena to undertake bulk change of 80W mercury
vapour lights in the northern end of the municipality (Jan – Jun
2009/10)
Lead Responsibility Services
Sustainable Transport and Property
Citipower area bulk change to be informed by public tender process on Jemena area.
Support – Sustainable Development
Work with Citipower to undertake bulk change of 80W mercury
vapour lights and assess lighting output to ensure that areas are
not over or under lit (Jul – Dec 2010/11)
Lead Responsibility Services
Sustainable Transport and Property
Waiting on outcomes of above referred to public tender.
Support – Sustainable Development
Undertake community consultation for lighting review of over lit
and under lit areas (Jan – Mar 2009/10)
Key Fleet Actions
Measure
Comment – actions completed or being progressed
Lead Responsibility - Engineering Operations
Quarterly and annual greenhouse reporting has not been undertaken. This is proposed
for 2012 when data management has further progressed.
Quarterly and annual greenhouse reporting to incorporate fleet
emissions (ongoing 2009/10 – 2011/12)
Lead Responsibility Sustainable Development in
conjunction with Engineering Operations
Explore heavy fleet options including hybrid diesel and CNG in
Moreland City Council, December 2011
Feasibility study of CNG infrastructure at Operations Centre proposed for early 2012.
Installation of pilot system on a waste vehicle of energy recovery system using Permo
Drive due for completion November 2011.
24
Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
line with regional and State waste contracts (ongoing 2009/10 –
2011/12)
GPS systems have been installed on Council waste vehicles to allow refinement of
routes for fuel reduction.
Lead Responsibility - Sustainable Transport and Property
Services
Revise Vehicle Policy (ongoing 2009/10 – 2011/12)
Lead Responsibility - Engineering Operations
Plant replacement program systematically upgrades all plant and
machinery. All new purchases incorporate investigation of most
environmental and fuel efficient equipment of market tested
products
Support staff to use public transport and cycling for work
commuting and business travel – Green Travel Plan (ongoing
2009/10 – 2011/12)
Upgrade end of trip facilities to support uptake of active transport
by staff (November 2010/11)
Fleet policy being revised in 2012.
Consultation ongoing for contracts as opportunities arises. ESD Unit providing referral
advice on these projects.
Ongoing. Electric bike fleet introduced at Depot and Moreland Civic Centre in 2010/11
with expansions planned for 2012/13.
Completed.
Key Corporate Waste Actions
Measure
Comment – actions completed or being progressed
Lead Responsibility - Engineering Operations
Install new waste management system at Coburg Civic Centre in
2010, including reinvigoration of worm farm usage. (Jun 2009/10)
Waste management was improved through providing more obvious waste stream bins for
better separation. An additional worm farm was installed near staff lunch room and
existing worm farm reinvigorated.
Lead Responsibility - Engineering Operations
Conduct staff education in recycling and composting as part of
the new waste management system at Coburg (June 2009/10)
Clear signage, information through the Can’o’worms staff newsletter and information on
the intranet were provided to improve staff understanding of recycling and composting.
Key Offsetting Actions progressing
Measure
Comment – actions completed or being progressed
Lead Responsibility - Sustainable Development
A Carbon Offset Policy will be developed for Council’s consideration in 2012.
Support – Finance Unit & MELF
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
Develop Offset Policy including:


Confirm long term investment model for internal carbon pricing
method
Establish offset provider and commence purchasing
agreement (Jan – Jun 2009/10)
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
12. APPENDIX II – Emissions Scope
In developing the initial Carbon Management Strategy Council was moving from a reporting framework
developed by ICLEI Cities for Climate Protection (CCP) to adopting internationally recognised
greenhouse reporting protocol such as the Federal Governments National Greenhouse and Energy
Reporting (NGER) Act 2007.The federal governments introduction of NGER’s reporting was targeted at
the largest emitting corporations although it has provided an internationally recognised framework for
organisations to managing its greenhouse emissions.
Since the development of the CMS changes have taken place regarding a corporation’s ability to claim
Carbon Neutrality status. The Carbon Neutral Program is administered by Low Carbon Australia who
has published the National Carbon Offset Standard (NCOS) or the ‘Standard’ released on July 2010
which provides guidance for organisations seeking to become certified as Carbon Neutral. As Moreland
Council has committed to becoming Carbon Neutral by 2012 council’s carbon emissions scope it is
therefore under the definitions set out under NCOS that council is aligned with.
Scope 1 - Emissions released directly at a facility e.g. emissions from a gas furnace
Scope 2 - Emissions released offsite due to energy consumption at the facility e.g. emissions from
electricity
Scope3 - Emissions generated in the wider economy as a consequence of the corporation’s activities e.g.
waste disposal, air travel
The provisions contained within the Standard are based on currently existing Australian and
international standards and Australian legislation. To achieve carbon neutral status the Standard
requires an organisation to report on all scope 1 & 2 emissions and in addition, at a minimum, an
organisation should report on the following scope 3 emissions:

business travel of its employees;

disposal of waste generated by the organisation; and

use of paper in the course of its business.
The most significant change in this review is to street lighting and how council has historically viewed its
responsibility towards street lighting and how it chooses to do so in the future. Street lighting under
NGER’s and the Standard is a scope 3 emission source as council does not own the asset Therefore it
is not the responsibility of council to report on these emissions. However council is responsible for the
operation, maintenance and renewal charges associated with street lighting so it is in council’s interest
to implement lighting efficiency upgrades as council is currently undertaking, as detailed in section 4.
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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Carbon Management Strategy – Update 2011
The Victorian Local Government Guide to Reducing Carbon Emissions, developed by the Municipal
Association of Victoria (MAV) suggests the following approach for councils considering their Scope 3
emissions.
‘Due to the inherent difficulties in measuring the success of strategies which focus
upon scope 3 community emissions, MAV suggests council should only set formal
targets for scope 1 and 2 emissions.
Nevertheless, council should consider including scope 3 emissions that fall within the
organisational boundary for which it has legislated responsibility.
For example public street lighting is managed by electricity distributers, or third party
leased sites such as leisure centres or libraries operated by regional corporations.’
Moreland City Council, December 2011
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