- The Albanese Government awards $50 million to 66 local councils under CEUF Round 2, funding solar, battery storage, and EV charging to reduce emissions and energy costs.
- Projects include 33 aquatic centre upgrades and 10 EV charging initiatives nationwide, supporting affordable and sustainable energy.
The Albanese Government announced $50 million in funding for 66 local councils under the second round of the Community Energy Upgrades Fund (CEUF). The grants will help councils cut energy costs and reduce emissions in community facilities nationwide.
The CEUF, a $100 million initiative, supports electrification, energy efficiency upgrades, solar generation, and storage systems. Eligible facilities include pools, libraries, town halls and sports precincts.
In South Australia, six councils will share $5.47 million to install solar PV systems, battery storage, heat pumps and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. The City of Campbelltown received $2.5 million to upgrade the ARC Campbelltown Aquatic Centre.
The project will add a high-efficiency heat pump alongside existing gas boilers, supported by a solar-shaded car park. The council plans to use the pool as a thermal battery to increase renewable energy use and phase out gas heating in future upgrades.
Meanwhile, the District Council of Franklin Harbour will utilise its $189,127 grant to install solar and battery systems at the Cowell Wastewater Treatment Plant, thereby reducing emissions and operating costs. Naracoorte Lucindale Council will deploy rooftop solar at four municipal sites with $110,869 in funding.
Across Australia, CEUF Round 2 will support 33 aquatic centre upgrades and 10 EV charging projects. Almost all approved projects include solar, and more than half incorporate battery storage.
Furthermore, Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen stated that the programme will ensure essential facilities remain affordable. Assistant Minister Josh Wilson also said that it reflects growing local-level momentum for decarbonisation. Special Envoy Kate Thwaites highlighted how these projects protect communities while saving money.
In addition, Federal Member for Sturt Claire Clutterham praised Campbelltown’s project, saying it builds a cleaner, stronger future for families. CEUF grants range from $25,000 to $2.5 million, with local governments required to match funding. The government said the initiative will accelerate Australia’s emissions reduction and modernise community infrastructure.