Environmental Services Team Members, Leon Stackpole and Jane Bevelander, on location with an electric vehicle (EV) at a CHW solar array
Central Highlands Water (CHW) has announced a major step forward in its sustainability efforts by confirming it is using 100% renewable electricity.
The milestone is consistent with the Victorian Government’s Statement of Obligations (Emissions Reduction) and demonstrates CHW’s commitment to sustainability and reducing emissions across the region.
As part of its long-term Climate Resilience Plan (2024-2034), CHW has implemented a comprehensive energy efficiency program aimed at lowering carbon emissions and improving operational efficiency. Having now met the Victorian Government’s target for all water corporations to use 100% renewable energy by 2025, CHW will continue to work towards achieving the further goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2035.
CHW’s solar initiative has played a significant role in achieving the 100% renewable electricity milestone, with solar panels strategically installed across several facilities, as well as offices and depots. These systems collectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions by around 3,000 tonnes annually.
Lal Lal Reservoir is home to a mini hydroelectric plant that generates clean energy from water releases. The project, jointly funded by the Victorian Government, Barwon Water, and Central Highlands Water, has a generating capacity of 526 MWh per annum. This renewable energy powers existing infrastructure at the reservoir and further contributes to the electricity grid.
CHW is an active participant in the Zero Emissions Water (ZEW) partnership, a pioneering collaboration among Victorian water corporations that enables access to large-scale renewable energy projects. This partnership helps CHW secure reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity. By sharing resources and coordinating energy demand with other utilities, CHW can invest in and benefit from projects like large-scale solar that would be challenging to access independently.
During 2024–25, CHW reduced its carbon emissions by 3,612 tonnes compared to its baseline year. In addition, the organisation is continuing to transition its vehicle fleet to hybrid and electric vehicles as part of its broader emissions reduction strategy.
Central Highlands Water Managing Director, Jeff Haydon, was proud of the organisation’s sustainability progress.
“We’re proud to be delivering real, measurable progress towards our renewable energy goals. These achievements reflect our strong commitment to sustainability, and to supporting the communities we serve with reliable, climate-resilient water services. We are dedicated to embedding our desire to enhance and protect the environment through ambitious targets that reduce our emissions footprint and overall environmental impact.”
This milestone reflects CHW’s commitment to the More Than Water 2040 strategy by delivering on ambitious targets to reduce emissions and minimise our environmental impact. It’s a key step toward a more sustainable and resilient future for our region. From solar and hydro energy to innovative partnerships and sustainable transport, CHW is powering ahead in its commitment to a cleaner and greener future.
