Port Macquarie-Hastings Council will consider the inclusion of suitably sized solar PV (photovoltaic) systems, potentially with battery storage, for the Port Macquarie Sewage Treatment Plant and Wauchope Water Treatment Plant system, in the 2020-2021 operational plan.

Cr Peter Alley said the projects would be repaid within a fairly short timeframe and that was why the two projects were identified.

The decision was part of a six-point resolution to flow from the Long Term Energy Strategy six monthly update.

General manager Craig Swift-McNair has also been asked to provide a report in July 2020 on suitable sites within the local government area, including indicative costings and benefits, of a 25 gigawatt hours per annum solar PV project to meet 100 per cent of the council's current and short term projected electricity use.

The Long Term Energy Strategy has four components including an aim to source 100 per cent of council's electricity from renewable sources by 2027.

The general manager was requested to identify appropriate funding sources to urgently seek strategic advice on renewable energy technology to suit the council's needs and develop a solar procurement and project management plan.

Deputy mayor Lisa Intemann encouraged the staff to take the matter forward in a proactive fashion because the council could really make such a difference to the community in terms of achieving reduced emission goals but also saving money.

Tom Whelan congratulated the council on great policy making in reference to the Long Term Energy Strategy.

The council adopted the strategy in October 2017 to responsibly plan for and manage its long-term energy requirements.

Mr Whelan said this was not the time to reduce the number of update reports.

The council decided to retain six monthly updates.

The strategy provides a framework to guide strategic decision-making to manage the council's energy resources.

What else is making news, sport?

While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Port Macquarie News. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, SIGN UP HERE.